17 Mexican Carnitas Recipe Crock Pot Delight In These Amazing Recipes!
Published on: Mar 17, 2024
For meat lovers, there is nothing quite like the succulent, tender, and flavorful Mexican carnitas. This traditional dish, which translates to "little meats," is a staple in Mexican cuisine and is typically served during special occasions or celebrations. While the traditional method of cooking carnitas involves simmering the meat in lard, many home cooks have turned to the convenience of using a crock pot to achieve the same delicious results. In this article, we will share a professional and well-organized introduction to making Mexican carnitas in a crock pot, so you can enjoy this mouth-watering dish in the comfort of your own home.
Main Ingredients: Corn Tortillas, Carnitas, Salsa Verde, Pickled Red
If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine and love the juicy, flavorful meat of a traditional carnitas dish, then you'll definitely want to try out these delicious Carnitas Tacos. They are a perfect combination of tender pulled pork, tangy salsa, and creamy guacamole all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. This dish is sure to be a hit at your next taco night!
2of 20
Pork Carnitas (Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork)
Main Ingredients: Pork Butt, Brown Sugar, Cumin, Oregano, Salt, Garlic
For an easy and hands-off way to make carnitas, try this recipe for Pork Carnitas in your slow cooker. The pork is cooked low and slow in a flavorful marinade of spices, beer, and citrus juices, resulting in tender and juicy pulled pork that is perfect for tacos, burritos, or any other Mexican-inspired dish.
3of 20
Carnitas (Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork)
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder, Salt, Black Pepper, Onion, Jalapeno
If you're looking for a traditional and authentic way to make carnitas, this recipe for Carnitas in a slow cooker is the way to go. The pork is seasoned with a blend of spices and slow-cooked in a broth until it is fork-tender. The result is a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion.
4of 20
Slow Cooker Carnitas Quesadillas
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Shoulder, Chipotle Powder, Black Pepper
Take your traditional quesadillas to the next level with these Slow Cooker Carnitas Quesadillas. The tender and flavorful pork is combined with gooey cheese, crispy bell peppers, and onions, all sandwiched between two warm tortillas. These quesadillas are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
If you're craving carnitas but don't have a slow cooker, don't worry! This recipe for Mexican Pork Carnitas can be made in a Dutch oven or on the stove. The pork is cooked in a flavorful sauce until it is tender and then broiled to get those crispy edges. Serve it up with your favorite toppings for a delicious meal.
6of 20
Pork Carnitas Tacos With Tomatillo Salsa Verde
Main Ingredients: Salsa Verde, Tomatillos, Green Chilis, Onion, Fresh
For a unique twist on traditional carnitas tacos, try this recipe for Pork Carnitas Tacos with Tomatillo Salsa Verde. The tangy and slightly spicy salsa adds a delicious kick to the tender and juicy pork. Top it off with some fresh cilantro and creamy avocado for a truly delicious taco experience.
7of 20
Carnitas Street Tacos
Main Ingredients: Corn Tortillas, Pork Carnitas, Green Cabbage, Red
If you're a fan of street-style tacos, then these Carnitas Street Tacos are a must-try. The pork is cooked in a flavorful marinade and then grilled to get those delicious crispy edges. Serve them up with some fresh salsa, pickled onions, and a squeeze of lime juice for a truly authentic and mouth-watering taco experience.
8of 20
Pork Carnitas Burrito Bowl
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Shoulder, Salt, Pepper, Dried Oregano
For a healthier and low-carb option, try making these Pork Carnitas Burrito Bowls. The tender and flavorful pork is combined with cauliflower rice, black beans, and fresh veggies for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Top it off with some avocado slices and cilantro for a burst of freshness.
9of 20
Carnitas Enchiladas (Pork Enchiladas)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, All Purpose Flour, Chili Powder, Ground
If you're in the mood for some cheesy and comforting enchiladas, try this recipe for Carnitas Enchiladas. The tender pork is combined with gooey cheese and enchilada sauce and then baked to perfection. Top it off with some sour cream and green onions for a truly delicious and hearty meal.
10of 20
Carnitas Taco Lettuce Wraps
Main Ingredients: Avocados, Lime, Garlic Clove, Salt, Bibb Lettuce, Red
For a lighter and healthier option, try these Carnitas Taco Lettuce Wraps. The tender and flavorful pork is wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves and topped with pico de gallo, avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice. These wraps are perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
11of 20
Easy Pork Carnitas Taco Board
Main Ingredients: Pork Carnitas, Lime, White Onion, Cilantro, Chip, Blue
If you're looking for a fun and interactive way to enjoy carnitas, try this Easy Pork Carnitas Taco Board. The tender and juicy pork is served with warm tortillas, a variety of toppings such as cheese, salsa, and guacamole, and some lime wedges for a touch of freshness. Let everyone build their own tacos for a fun and delicious meal.
12of 20
Carnitas Chilaquiles with Whipped Jalapeño Cream.
Main Ingredients: Pork Shoulder Roast, Canola Oil, Pepper, Salt, Smoked
Take your brunch game to the next level with these Carnitas Chilaquiles. The crispy tortilla chips are topped with tender and flavorful pork, a spicy sauce, and a whipped jalapeño cream. This dish is perfect for a lazy weekend morning or a special occasion brunch.
13of 20
Carnitas Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Shoulder, Dried Oregano, Ground Cumin
For a unique and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, try these Carnitas Stuffed Poblano Peppers. The tender pork is combined with rice, black beans, and cheese and then stuffed into roasted poblano peppers. Top them off with some salsa and sour cream for a delicious and satisfying meal.
14of 20
Ultimate Nachos with Beer-Braised Carnitas
Main Ingredients: Salt, Smoked Paprika, Cumin, Onion Powder, Chili
No game day or movie night is complete without a plate of loaded nachos, and these Ultimate Nachos with Beer-Braised Carnitas are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The tender and flavorful pork is combined with black beans, cheese, jalapeños, and salsa for a truly indulgent and delicious snack.
15of 20
Skinny Crispy Carnitas Tacos with Cilantro Lime Ranch
Main Ingredients: Mission Corn Tortillas, Cream, Carnitas, Avocado
If you're looking for a healthier option that doesn't sacrifice flavor, try these Skinny Crispy Carnitas Tacos. The pork is cooked until it is crispy and then combined with lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and a light and refreshing cilantro lime ranch. These tacos are perfect for a guilt-free weeknight meal.
16of 20
Whole30 Chilaquiles with Carnitas and Sweet Potatoes...
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Avocado Oil, Salt, Pepper, Salsa
For those following a specific diet, these Whole30 Chilaquiles with Carnitas and Sweet Potatoes are a must-try. The crispy sweet potatoes are topped with tender and flavorful carnitas, a spicy salsa verde, and a creamy avocado sauce. This dish is packed with flavor and is completely compliant with the Whole30 diet.
17of 20
Carnitas Caldo (Carnitas Soup)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Chayote, Garlic, Chicken Broth
For a comforting and hearty soup that is bursting with flavor, try this Carnitas Caldo. The tender pork is combined with potatoes, carrots, and corn in a delicious broth. Serve it up with some tortilla chips and avocado slices for a satisfying and comforting meal.
18of 20
Mexican Cuban Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Ham Slices, Cheese, Pickled Jalapenos
For a fusion of two delicious cuisines, try this Mexican Cuban Sandwich. The tender and flavorful pork is combined with ham, pickles, and cheese between two slices of crusty bread and then toasted to perfection. Serve it up with some plantain chips for a truly delicious and unique meal.
19of 20
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork & Creamy Coleslaw
Main Ingredients: Pulled Pork, Onion, Garlic, Beef Broth, Water, Brown
For a classic and crowd-pleasing combination, try this recipe for Slow Cooker Pulled Pork and Creamy Coleslaw. The pork is cooked in a barbecue sauce until it is tender and then served up with a creamy and tangy coleslaw. This dish is perfect for a summer BBQ or any time you're craving some good old-fashioned comfort food.
20of 20
Carnitas Enchiladas
Main Ingredients: Pork Carnitas, Pinto Beans, Rice, Green Chilis, Cotija
For a twist on traditional enchiladas, try these Carnitas Enchiladas. The tender and flavorful pork is combined with enchilada sauce and cheese and then rolled up in corn tortillas. Top them off with some sour cream and cilantro for a truly delicious and satisfying meal.
The Key to Perfect Carnitas
When it comes to making authentic Mexican carnitas, the key is in the cooking method. Traditionally, the meat is simmered in lard until it becomes tender and crispy on the outside. However, using a crock pot can achieve the same results without the need for large amounts of lard. The slow cooking process allows the meat to cook low and slow, resulting in tender, flavorful carnitas that fall apart with a fork.
The Best Cut of Meat to Use
To make the best Mexican carnitas in a crock pot, it is essential to start with the right cut of meat. Look for a well-marbled pork shoulder or pork butt, also known as "Boston butt." The marbling of fat in these cuts will ensure that the meat stays moist and tender during the long cooking process. You can also use boneless pork ribs, which are a leaner option, but may not result in as tender of a final product.
The Secret to Flavorful Carnitas
While the traditional method of cooking carnitas involves simmering the meat in lard, you can still achieve the same rich and authentic flavors by using a combination of spices and citrus juices. The most common spices used in Mexican carnitas are cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Additionally, the addition of orange juice and lime juice adds a tangy and slightly sweet element to the dish.
How to Serve Your Carnitas
Once your Mexican carnitas are cooked to perfection in the crock pot, it's time to serve them up and enjoy. Carnitas can be served in a variety of ways, depending on personal preference. The most traditional way is to serve them in soft corn tortillas, topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime juice. You can also serve them over rice, as a topping for salads, or even in a bowl with your favorite toppings.
In Conclusion
Making Mexican carnitas in a crock pot is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this traditional dish. By using the right cut of meat, a combination of spices and citrus juices, and the slow cooking method of a crock pot, you can achieve tender, flavorful, and authentic carnitas at home. So next time you're craving this mouth-watering dish, skip the trip to the taqueria and make it yourself using this simple and delicious recipe.
