Best Pork Carnitas Recipe (Crispy & Tender)

by | May 7, 2026 | 0 comments

4.5 (24 reviews)

Succulent, citrus-infused pork shoulder slow-cooked until tender then crisped to perfection.
A traditional Mexican staple featuring deep savory notes and bright acidity.

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Prep time : 20 minutes
Cooking Time : 240 minutes
Total Time : 260 minutes
Nutrition : 485 Calories
Difficulty : Medium
Cuisine :
Category : Dinner

Ingredients :

4 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
1 large white onion, quartered
6 cloves garlic, smashed
2 bay leaves
1 cinnamon stick
1 cup fresh orange juice
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1/2 cup water
2 tbsp vegetable oil

Method :

1. Season pork cubes thoroughly with salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin.
2. Place pork in a heavy Dutch oven or slow cooker.
3. Add onion, garlic, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, orange juice, lime juice, and water.
4. Cover and simmer on low heat for 4 hours until meat is fork-tender.
5. Remove pork from liquid; discard onion, cinnamon, and bay leaves.
6. Shred meat into large chunks using two forks.
7. Heat oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
8. Press pork into the skillet in batches, searing until edges are golden and crispy.
9. Drizzle a small amount of the remaining cooking liquid over the meat before serving.

Recipe Notes :

Use a well-marbled pork shoulder for maximum flavor. Avoid over-shredding the meat before searing to ensure it remains juicy inside while crisping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of meat for pork carnitas?

Pork shoulder (also known as pork butt) is the ideal cut because its high fat content and connective tissue break down during slow roasting to create tender, juicy meat.

How do you make carnitas crispy without drying them out?

Searing the shredded pork in a hot cast-iron skillet with a bit of oil or its own rendered fat creates crispy edges while keeping the center of the meat moist.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of a Dutch oven?

Yes, simply combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the pork is fork-tender before crisping in a pan.

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