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Carnitas Tacos

Succulent Carnitas Tacos for the Perfect Taco Night

Enjoy these delicious Carnitas Tacos, perfect for any gathering with their rich flavors and endless topping possibilities.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 hours
Total Time 10 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 tacos
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

For the Carnitas
  • 3 pounds Pork Shoulder Boneless is best for easy shredding.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder can substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Powder Adjust amount to suit heat preference.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • 1 large Yellow Onion Chopped; can substitute with red onion.
  • 1 cup Orange Juice Freshly squeezed.
  • 1 medium Jalapeno Pepper Diced; deseed for less heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
For Toppings
  • 1 small Red Onion Diced.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Chopped; optional.
  • 6 pieces Tortillas Corn or flour based on preference.
  • 1 lime Lime Cut into wedges for serving.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, combine dried oregano, ground cumin, black pepper, salt, and chili powder. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the pork shoulder.
  2. Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeno pepper. Pour in fresh orange juice.
  3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or high for 5 to 6 hours until pork is fork-tender.
  4. Once done, transfer the pork to a board and shred it using two forks. Optionally return to slow cooker to keep warm.
  5. For extra texture, preheat broiler, spread shredded pork on a baking sheet, and broil for 5 to 10 minutes.
  6. Warm tortillas and assemble tacos by filling with shredded carnitas, then top with red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tacoCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 20gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 670mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Don't discard the cooking liquid; it keeps the carnitas moist and flavor-packed. Experiment with tortilla options for varied flavors.

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