Carnitas 🐖

I’ve found that making carnitas in a crock pot is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors without spending hours at the stove. The recipe’s use of pork shoulder, combined with fresh garlic cloves, onions, and aromatic bay leaves, creates a slow-cooked, tender meat that shreds beautifully. Adding one orange and half a can of Coca-Cola might sound unusual, but the citrus and slight sweetness from the soda help tenderize the meat and add a subtle depth to the flavor. After letting the pork cook on low for about 8 hours, I recommend broiling it for a few minutes to get those edges crispy, which really elevates the dish. When the carnitas come out with that perfect balance of juicy interior and crisp outside, it makes for a fantastic filling for tacos, burritos, or even a hearty dinner served alongside rice and beans. A tip from my experience: try to cut the onion into halves rather than smaller pieces so you can easily remove them after cooking if you prefer a smoother texture. Also, season well with salt and pepper before slow cooking. This recipe is incredibly forgiving and versatile, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Plus, using the crock pot lets you walk away and come back to a mouthwatering Mexican feast ready to be enjoyed.