Slow-Cooked Pork Carnitas (Low-Carb)

Slow-Cooked Pork Carnitas (Low-Carb)

The ultimate tender, crispy Mexican pulled pork that’s keto-friendly and incredibly flavorful.

Key Info

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours (low) / 5 hours (high)
Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes / 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Cost: $8-$12
Diet: Low-carb, Gluten-free, Dairy-free

Equipment Needed

• 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker
  Alternative: Instant Pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• 2 forks for shredding
• Baking sheet (for crisping)
• Sharp knife

Ingredients

For the Pork:

• 3 lbs pork shoulder/butt (boneless) [1.4 kg]
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 jalapeño, deseeded and diced (optional)
• ¼ cup lime juice (60ml)
• ½ cup orange juice (120ml) [sugar-free version available]
• ¼ cup chicken broth (60ml)

Seasoning Mix:

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Method:

1. Mix all seasoning ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Trim excessive fat from pork (leave some for flavor).
3. Rub seasoning mix thoroughly over all sides of the pork.
4. Place in slow cooker with onion, garlic, jalapeño.
5. Pour in lime juice, orange juice, and broth.
6. Cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 5 hours.
7. Meat should easily shred with forks when done.
8. For crispy finish:
   • Transfer to baking sheet.
   • Broil at 500°F (260°C) for 5-10 minutes until edges brown.
   • Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Crucial Tips:

• Don’t trim all fat – it’s essential for flavor.
• Never skip the crisping step.
• Keep some cooking liquid for serving.
• Let meat rest 10 minutes before shredding.

Storage & Reheating:

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in airtight container.
• Freeze: Up to 2 months with cooking liquid.
• Reheat: Skillet with reserved liquid until crispy.

Common Mistakes:

• Removing too much fat.
• Skipping the crisping step.
• Not keeping cooking liquid.
• Overcooking during crisping.

Variations:

• Ultra Keto: Skip orange juice, use sugar-free substitute.
• Spicy: Double jalapeños and cayenne.
• Asian Fusion: Add gochujang and sesame oil.
• Citrus Boost: Add extra lime zest.

Perfect for meal prep, tacos, salads, or protein bowls. Keeps well and tastes even better the next day!