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Crispy Crockpot Carnitas

Crispy Crockpot Carnitas: Flavor-Packed Slow-Cooked Delight

Crispy Crockpot Carnitas are a flavorful, gluten-free, paleo-friendly delight perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 hours
Total Time 15 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Carnitas
  • 3 pounds Boneless Pork Shoulder Good quality cut for juiciest results
  • 1 tablespoon Cumin Adds a warm earthiness
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Offers a herby note
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds mild heat and depth
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Provides savory aroma
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Imparts a smoky sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Integrates warmth and spice
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander Contributes citrusy undertone
  • 1 pinch Cinnamon Adds warmth and sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon Lime or Lemon Juice Brightens and balances
Optional Crispy Finish
  • 0.5-0.75 cups Cooking Juices To keep meat moist
  • as needed tablespoons Cooking Oil For broiling or frying

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, combine cumin, salt, oregano, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon. Stir until fully blended.
  2. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and rub the spice mixture all over the pork. Squeeze lime or lemon juice over the meat.
  3. Place the pork shoulder in the crockpot, cover, and set to low. Cook for approximately 15 hours.
  4. Transfer tender pork to a plate and shred using two forks.
  5. Pour reserved cooking juices over the shredded pork and mix gently.
  6. For crispy edges, preheat broiler to high, spread the carnitas on a baking sheet, and broil for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 24gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.

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