Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Mexican culinary paradise with these irresistible Slow Cooker Chipotle Carnitas! Imagine tender, smoky pork that falls apart at the mere touch of a fork, infused with bold chipotle flavors that will make your taste buds dance. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a flavor journey that will transport you straight to the heart of Mexico, all while requiring minimal effort in your trusty slow cooker.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 lb pork shoulder
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut into large 2-3 inch chunks, ensuring relatively uniform size for even cooking.
- In a large slow cooker, place the chopped onion and minced garlic as a base layer for the meat.
- Finely chop the chipotle peppers and spread them evenly over the onions, including a tablespoon of the adobo sauce for extra flavor.
- Place the pork chunks on top of the onion and chipotle mixture, ensuring they are not stacked too densely.
- Sprinkle cumin and salt evenly over the pork pieces, ensuring each chunk is well-seasoned.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat, cooking for 8 hours until the pork is extremely tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
- Once cooking is complete, remove the pork pieces and shred them using two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- Optional: For crispy edges, spread the shredded meat on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes until edges are slightly crisp.
- Serve hot with warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and your favorite salsa.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Pork shoulder (also called pork butt) is crucial for authentic, melt-in-your-mouth carnitas. Its high fat content ensures juicy, tender meat.
- Don't Skip the Broiling Step: While optional, the final broiling creates those irresistible crispy edges that elevate your carnitas from good to extraordinary.
- Seasoning is Key: Don't be shy with the cumin and salt. These help build the deep, rich flavor profile of traditional carnitas.
- Low and Slow is the Motto: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. Eight hours on low heat breaks down the meat's connective tissues, creating that signature tender texture.
- Customize Your Toppings: While the recipe suggests cilantro and lime, feel free to experiment with pickled onions, avocado, or a spicy salsa to make the dish your own.Pro tip: These carnitas freeze beautifully! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months, and you'll have a quick, delicious meal ready whenever cravings strike.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 518kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 150mg
