Slow-Cooked Pork Carnitas with Avocado Salsa
Tender shredded pork simmered in citrus-spiced broth, served with fresh avocado salsa. This mexican ready in about 380 minutes blends lime juice, olive oil, large, chopped onion into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 6, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs, boneless, cut into 1-inch cubes pork shoulder
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large, chopped onion
- 4 cloves, minced garlic
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2, diced avocado
- 1/4 cup, finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup, chopped cilantro
- 1, cut into wedges lime
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 2 lbs pork shoulder cubes, 1/4 cup lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 chopped large onion, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp dried oregano, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix well to coat the pork.
- Step 2: Transfer the pork mixture to a slow cooker. Add 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes and 1 cup chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Step 3: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Remove pork and shred with two forks, then return to slow cooker to mix with sauce.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, combine 2 diced avocados, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, and 1 tbsp lime juice. Season with a pinch of salt.
- Step 5: Serve carnitas warm with avocado salsa on the side and lime wedges for squeezing.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Slow-Cooked Pork Carnitas with Avocado Salsa take to make?
Total time is about 380 minutes (20 min prep + 360 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Slow-Cooked Pork Carnitas with Avocado Salsa?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Slow-Cooked Pork Carnitas with Avocado Salsa?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Slow-Cooked Pork Carnitas with Avocado Salsa for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Slow-Cooked Pork Carnitas with Avocado Salsa?
Mexican mexican like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
I've tried many mexican recipes and this is hands down the best.
- ★★★★☆
Reliable weeknight option. Not going to blow your mind but always satisfying.
- ★★★★☆
Tasty recipe. I'd add a bit more seasoning next time.
