Slow Cooker Carnitas

Slow cooker carnitas that take a few minutes to prep, and the result is juicy, fork-tender shredded pork with crispy caramelized brown edges in a mouth-watering sauce.

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Ingredients

Dry Rub

1 Tbsp cumin
2 tsp oregano
2 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

Other Ingredients

4 lb pork butt or shoulder
1 jalapeño (about 2 Tbsp diced)
1 white onion (coarsely chopped)
4 to 8 whole garlic cloves
1 orange
lard or other cooking oil

Instructions

Mix together the ingredients for the dry rub. Place the pork butt into the slow cooker with the fat cap up. Sprinkle the dry rub all over the meat and pat gently.
Prep the vegetables by dicing the jalapeño, chopping the onion, and removing the papery skins from the garlic. Add the jalapeño, onions, and whole garlic cloves evenly around the pork butt.
Cut the orange into fourths. Squeeze as much of the juice as possible from the oranges, then add the slices to the slow cooker. (Be sure to remove any seeds.)
Add the lid and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.
When the time is up, remove the orange slices and discard. Smash up the garlic so it can be incorporated into the sauce.
Remove the pork butt and discard any excess fat or bones. Shred the meat. If the meat doesn't shred easily, it needs to be cooked for longer.
Now, heat 1 tablespoon of lard or cooking oil in a large skillet (cast iron preferred). Work in batches and sear the meat for just a few minutes. Flip and repeat with the other side. You don't want the whole piece browned and crispy, just a few bits on each side. (*See alternative below.)
Serve as is or add the shredded meat back to the slow cooker and stir to evenly distribute the juice. Serve with your favorite tortillas or taco shells. Also works great over nachos!

Notes

* As an alternative to using a skillet to sear the meat, add the shredded meat in a single layer on a large sheet pan. Drizzle on a bit of cooking oil. Bake in a 400º oven until the ends are crispy and brown (about 30 minutes). Add more cooking oil as needed.

Optional Toppings: Salsa, sour cream, guacamole, cilantro, shredded cheese, pico de gallo, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, etc.