Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Slow-Cooked Citrus Pork Carnitas with Deeply Crispy, Caramelized Shreds


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Chef Billy

Description

Tender, citrus-infused pork shoulder slow-cooked until fall-apart tender, then crisped to perfection for a balance of juicy and caramelized textures.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 1 orange, juiced and rinds reserved
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp oregano
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil for crisping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

  1. Place pork chunks in a slow cooker with orange juice, lime juice, orange rinds, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
  2. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 5 hours, until pork shreds easily with a fork.
  3. Remove pork from slow cooker, shred with two forks, and discard orange rinds and excess fat.
  4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Spread shredded pork in an even layer and cook without stirring for 5-7 minutes until bottom is deeply crispy.
  5. Flip sections and repeat until all pork is caramelized and crispy-edged.
  6. Serve warm in tacos, burritos, or bowls with desired toppings.

Notes

You can customize the seasonings to taste.