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Slow Cooker Mexican Pulled Pork

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Slow Cooker Mexican Pulled Pork, also known as Carnitas, is a flavorful and tender dish made with juicy pork shoulder, warm Mexican spices, and a simple slow-cooking method. With just a few minutes of prep, the slow cooker does all the work for an easy family meal.

 

Ingredients

  • ▢ 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • ▢ 1 tablespoon cumin
  • ▢ 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ▢ 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • ▢ 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • ▢ 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • ▢ 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • ▢ 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
  • ▢ 1 tablespoon honey
  • ▢ 4 pounds boneless pork shoulder, excess fat trimmed

 

Instructions

Same-Day Instructions

  1. Place all ingredients into a slow cooker.
  2. Stir thoroughly to coat the pork with the seasoning mixture.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours, until the pork is tender and easily falls apart with a fork.
  4. Shred the pork using two forks.
  5. Serve in tacos, burritos, bowls, or with your favorite toppings.

Make-Ahead Freezer Instructions

  1. Add all ingredients except the pork shoulder into a gallon-sized freezer bag.
  2. Mix the ingredients together by pressing the outside of the bag.
  3. Add the pork shoulder and turn to coat evenly with the seasoning mixture.
  4. Remove as much air as possible, seal the bag, label, and freeze for up to 3 months.
  5. When ready to cook, transfer the frozen contents directly into the slow cooker.
  6. Cook on LOW for 8–10 hours until heated through and tender.
  7. Shred the pork with two forks and serve.

Notes

  • Best Cut: Pork shoulder works best because the fat content keeps the meat tender and flavorful during slow cooking.
  • Serving Ideas: Use for tacos with tortillas, salsa, avocado, cilantro, or serve over rice for a hearty meal.
  • Extra Flavor: For crispy carnitas-style edges, spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes before serving.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked pulled pork for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.

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One Potato is a community and newsletter written by real people who are parents, having real conversations about our families, cooking traditions, and cultures. We are passionate about raising healthy and happy kids while navigating the challenges of picky eaters, dietary restrictions, busy schedules, and daily life.