Pork Tenderloin Carnitas Tacos (Crockpot)
Ingredients
- 2 lbpork tenderloin
2-2.5 lbs. is best, may need two tenderloins for this
- 1 tspsalt
- ½ tsppepper
- 2 tspcumin
- 1 tsporegano
- ½ tspchili powder
- ½ tsponion powder
- ½ tspgarlic powder
- 1chipotle chilis in adobo sauce
- 1 tbsplime juice
- ½ cfresh squeezed orange juice
- ½ clight beer)
(Optional - I use pacifico or corona
- 2 tbspfresh chopped cilantro
Directions
- 1
Place pork tenderloins in crock-pot and sprinkle with spices. Add chilis, lime juice, orange juice and beer (if using).
- 2
Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high for about 4 hours. Pork should be easily shreddable when done.
- 3
Use two forks to shred pork, adjust seasoning level if desired and simmer another half hour.
- 4
Preheat broiler and transfer shredded pork to a baking sheet, spread out in a medium-thin layer, leaving any juices in the crock-pot.
- 5
Broil on low for about 5 minutes until it starts to get crisp but is not burnt or dried out. Remove pork and toss with reserved cooking liquid to moisten.
- 6
Stir in fresh cilantro and serve with taco fixings or over Mexican flavored rice. Taco fixing ideas: pickled red onions, queso fresco, salsa, cheese, lime, guacamole, tomato, lettuce, black olives or whatever else you prefer.
Pork Tenderloin Carnitas Tacos (Crockpot)
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About this Recipe
Craving the incredible flavors of carnitas but looking for a healthier option? This slow cooker pork tenderloin carnitas recipe delivers all the juicy, crispy goodness you love with a leaner cut of meat, perfect for delicious pork tacos.
Traditional carnitas often use fattier cuts, but by opting for pork tenderloin, you achieve incredibly tender, flavorful shredded pork without sacrificing that signature crispiness. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, infusing the meat with a rich blend of savory spices, bright citrus from orange and lime juice, and a hint of light beer for unparalleled depth.
Prepare for incredibly tender, fall-apart pork that's bursting with savory, slightly smoky, and bright citrus notes. After a long, slow cook, you'll typically finish the pork to achieve those irresistible crispy edges, creating a textural contrast that makes every bite exciting. This recipe transforms a lean cut into something truly special, offering a healthy and satisfying take on a classic.
Customization Tips
You can easily adjust the heat level to your preference by using one or two chipotle chilis in adobo sauce; for a milder flavor, you can swap them for half a tablespoon of chili powder instead. For those who prefer to omit the alcohol, feel free to skip the light beer entirely – the orange and lime juices will still provide plenty of moisture and flavor. Additionally, the fresh chopped cilantro is optional, so you can leave it out if it's not to your taste.
These delicious pork tenderloin carnitas are perfect nestled into warm tortillas for a satisfying taco night, or served over rice for a hearty, flavorful bowl. They make an excellent centerpiece for a casual family dinner or a lively gathering with friends.