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Close-up of Slow Cooker Carnitas on a white plate garnished with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge

Slow Cooker Carnitas

Slow Cooker Carnitas is the ultimate recipe for fall-apart tender, juicy shredded beef with bold, irresistible flavor. It’s the easiest way to transform a humble beef roast into something magical, all thanks to your trusty slow cooker.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 hours
Total Time 10 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon crumbled dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 4 pounds beef roast
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients. This is key for a smooth prep.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, coriander, and cinnamon. Rub the beef roast generously with this spice blend, coating it evenly on all sides.
  3. Place 2 bay leaves at the bottom of the slow cooker. Then lay the beef roast on top.
  4. Carefully pour the chicken broth around the sides of the beef, being careful not to rinse off the spice coating. This liquid will help keep the meat tender and flavorful during cooking.
  5. Cover the slow cooker and set it to “Low.” Let it cook for 10 hours, flipping the beef after 5 hours to ensure even cooking. (Feel free to walk away—this is hands-off!)
  6. After 10 hours, the beef should be fall-apart tender. Remove it from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
  7. Optional: Moisten the shredded carnitas with some of the reserved cooking liquid for added flavor and juiciness.

Notes

Searing for extra flavor: If you have 5 extra minutes, sear the beef roast on all sides in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This locks in juices and adds depth.