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The BEST Crockpot Carnitas – Easy Authentic Flavor

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Hot Rod's Recipes
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Mexican rice, also known as Spanish rice, is a staple side dish in Mexican cuisine, often served alongside beans, meats, and salsas. Its vibrant color and flavor come from the use of tomatoes and spices, making it a popular accompaniment to many meals. The dish has roots in traditional Mexican cooking, influenced by Spanish culinary practices, and is commonly found in households and restaurants across Mexico and beyond.

Ingredients

  • long-grain rice
  • tomato sauce
  • onion
  • garlic
  • vegetable broth
  • peas
  • carrots
  • corn
  • cumin
  • salt
  • pepper
  • cilantro

Instructions

  1. 1Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. 2In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion and garlic until translucent.
  3. 3Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and toast for a few minutes until lightly golden.
  4. 4Stir in the tomato sauce, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  5. 5Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
  6. 6Simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
  7. 7Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in peas, carrots, and corn.
  8. 8Cover and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes to heat the vegetables.
  9. 9Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

long-grain rice

Healthier: brown rice

Cheaper: white rice

Brown rice is more nutritious, while white rice is often less expensive.

vegetable broth

Healthier: homemade vegetable broth

Cheaper: water

Homemade broth is healthier, while water is a budget-friendly option.

peas

Healthier: green beans

Cheaper: frozen peas

Green beans are nutritious, while frozen peas are often cheaper.

Techniques

sautéingtoastingsimmeringfluffing

Equipment

large skilletmeasuring cupscutting boardknifefork
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

Spanish RiceArroz Rojo

Crockpot Carnitas are a modern adaptation of traditional Mexican carnitas, which originated in the state of Michoacán. This dish celebrates the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork, often served at family gatherings and festive occasions. In contemporary cuisine, the use of a slow cooker makes this beloved dish accessible for busy home cooks, allowing for tender, flavorful meat with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • pork shoulder
  • orange juice
  • lime juice
  • garlic
  • onion
  • cumin
  • oregano
  • bay leaves
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • jalapeño
  • cilantro
  • corn tortillas
  • avocado
  • sour cream

Instructions

  1. 1Cut pork shoulder into large chunks and season with salt, cumin, and oregano.
  2. 2Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear pork chunks until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3Place seared pork in the crockpot along with sliced onion, minced garlic, and jalapeño.
  4. 4Pour orange juice and lime juice over the pork.
  5. 5Add bay leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper to the crockpot.
  6. 6Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until pork is tender.
  7. 7Once cooked, shred the pork using two forks in the crockpot.
  8. 8Stir the shredded pork into the cooking juices to absorb flavor.
  9. 9Serve warm on corn tortillas with chopped cilantro, avocado, and sour cream.

Ingredient Alternatives

pork shoulder

Healthier: pork loin

Cheaper: chicken thighs

Pork loin is leaner, while chicken thighs are more economical.

sour cream

Healthier: Greek yogurt

Cheaper: plain yogurt

Greek yogurt provides creaminess with fewer calories.

Techniques

searingshredding

Equipment

crockpotskilletcutting boardknife
🌶️🌶️🌶️Medium

Also Known As

Slow Cooker CarnitasMexican Pulled Pork

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