savory

Carnitas Tacos

Tender carnitas piled high with vibrant toppings makes for a flavor-packed meal that’s both hearty and fresh. The juicy, slow-cooked pork pairs perfectly with rice, black beans, and pico de gallo. Try it in a bowl, with warm tortillas or stacked on a pile of salty tortilla chips.

Jump to Directions

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Servings 6 Servings
Cuts pork shoulder

Ingredients

Before we get cooking, here’s everything you need. Check items off as you go — at home or in the store.

For serving

Directions

Trim the fat from the pork shoulder.
In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin. Mix together and spread over the entire pork shoulder.
Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Squeeze juice from the orange halves over top.
Add the spent orange halves and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours until falling apart tender and the internal temperature reaches 145°F or above.
Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked meat to a large bowl. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, then moisten/season with cooking juices to taste. Cover to keep warm and set aside.
Serve pork with warm tortillas and toppings of your choice.