Name: Crockpot Mexican Pulled Pork
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491513H38M59S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 lb pork shoulder; 1 large onion (quartered); 6 cloves garlic (smashed); 1 cup lime juice; ½ cup chicken broth; ½ cup green chiles (chopped); 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo (optional); 1 tbsp kosher salt; 1 tbsp ground cumin; 1 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp red chili flakes; Oil (for searing)

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There’s something magical about the aroma of Crockpot Mexican Pulled Pork wafting through the kitchen, enveloping the entire home in a warm, inviting embrace. Picture tender, juicy pork that simply falls apart at the slightest touch, with spices that dance on your palate—lime, cumin, and of course, a hint of smokiness from chipotle if you choose to add it. As you lift the lid on your slow cooker after a long day, expect to be greeted by a beautifully braised feast, the smell alone promising a satisfying meal.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Crockpot Mexican Pulled Pork
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Crockpot Mexican Pulled Pork

This recipe is more than just a dinner plan; it’s a staple that often finds its way to our family gatherings. I fondly recall summer nights when we’d gather around the table, compassionately filling our plates with warm tortillas and heaping spoonfuls of that succulent pork while sharing stories and laughter with loved ones. Whether it’s for taco night or a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish brings everyone together. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into this flavorful adventure in your very own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 15 minutes of prep time and then let your crockpot work its magic for 10 hours, making dinner can literally be a breeze!
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite is juicy and brimming with zesty notes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The citrusy, vibrant colors of lime juice and spices make this dish not just delicious but stunning on the plate!
Flexible Serving: Perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, nachos, or even just spooned over rice—your imagination is the limit!
Diet-Friendly Options: Gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 lb pork shoulder: Boneless or bone-in, this cut is the star of the show, offering rich flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly.
1 large onion (quartered): Adds sweetness and depth to the dish; you can use yellow or white onion for the best results.
6 cloves garlic (smashed): Be generous—garlic enhances flavor with its aromatic zing; fresh is always best.
1 cup lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice provides a vibrant tang that pairs wonderfully with the pork’s richness.
½ cup chicken broth: Adds moisture; low-sodium broth helps control the sodium content.
½ cup green chiles (chopped): Can use canned or fresh for that gentle heat; they bring a lovely kick without overwhelming the dish.
1 tbsp chipotle in adobo (optional): For those who love a smoky flavor, a little goes a long way!
1 tbsp kosher salt: Essential for seasoning; kosher salt is perfect as it disperses evenly during cooking.
1 tbsp ground cumin: This earthy spice is crucial for that classic Mexican flavor.
1 tbsp dried oregano: Preferably Mexican oregano, known for its robust flavor; it’s a wonderful herbal addition.
1 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground or pre-ground, adds warmth and enhances all the flavors.
1 tsp smoked paprika: This adds depth and a subtle smokiness.
1 tsp red chili flakes: For a touch of heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
Oil (for searing): Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola, perfect for achieving that golden crust on the pork.

How to Make Crockpot Mexican Pulled Pork

Pat and Season: Start by patting the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps achieve a beautiful sear! Once dry, rub the pork all over with kosher salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, red chili flakes, and oregano. Make sure every inch is coated with those aromatic spices; they’ll infuse deep flavor into the meat during cooking.

Sear the Pork: Heat a splash of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the seasoned pork shoulder into the pan, searing it for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s nicely golden brown. This step not only enhances the flavor but also locks in moisture, giving your **Crockpot Mexican Pulled Pork** a rich, caramelized crust.

Transfer to Slow Cooker: After searing, transfer the pork to the bottom of your slow cooker. Scatter the quartered onion, smashed garlic, and chopped green chiles around the pork, creating a tasty bed for it to rest on. Pour in the zesty lime juice and chicken broth over the top, and if you’re feeling adventurous, add the chipotle in adobo for that smoky kick!

Cook Low and Slow: Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for at least 10 hours, or up to 12 hours—patience is key! The pork will be melt-in-your-mouth tender when done, and the exciting aromas will keep you eagerly waiting. Avoid using the HIGH setting as it will result in tougher meat.

Shred the Pork: Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a large cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces, discarding any large fat pieces. Take a moment to enjoy the incredible aromas wafting around you; this is what comfort food dreams are made of!

Combine and Soak: Return the shredded pork back to the slow cooker along with all those delicious juices. Stir well to ensure every piece is coated. Let it sit on the WARM setting for an additional 10-15 minutes. This allows the meat to soak up all that flavorful broth, enhancing the juiciness for your tacos or bowls.

Serve and Enjoy: Now, it’s time to serve your wonderful **Crockpot Mexican Pulled Pork**! Load it into soft tortillas, top with your favorite fixings like cilantro, onions, or avocado, or spoon it generously over rice or nachos. The delightful combinations are endless.

Storing & Reheating

Leftovers of Crockpot Mexican Pulled Pork can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours before moving to the refrigerator. Use an airtight container for storage, where it can stay fresh for up to 4 days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, freeze the pork in a freezer-safe bag—be sure to remove as much air as possible—where it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Just a splash of broth or a bit of lime juice can help refresh the flavors!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

While searing, don’t rush the process. A good golden crust means flavor maximization!
If you notice excess fat after cooking, you can skim it off for a leaner dish.
For meal prep enthusiasts, this recipe is perfect to make ahead; it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Consider adding your favorite toppings like pickled onions or fresh salsa for a burst of freshness.
Want to build a bit more heat? Add more chili flakes or a diced jalapeño to the mix.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Absolutely! You could use pork loin, but bear in mind that it’s leaner and may not be as tender as pork shoulder. If you choose pork loin, adjust your cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Is it possible to make it spicy?

Definitely! The chipotle in adobo adds a great smoky heat, but you can ramp up the spice by adding more chili flakes or even a chopped fresh jalapeño alongside the onions.

What should I serve with this pulled pork?

The options are endless! Tacos, burrito bowls, or even nachos topped with cheese and fresh veggies are all fantastic choices. You can also serve it alongside some simple rice or beans to soak up all those delicious juices.

Can I cook this on high in the crockpot?

While it’s tempting, cooking on high doesn’t allow the pork to become as tender as when it’s cooked low and slow. Sticking with the LOW setting ensures the best texture and flavor!

With this Crockpot Mexican Pulled Pork, you’re not just making a meal; you’re creating a delicious experience that’s perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion where comfort food is needed. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings, serving ideas, and most importantly, savor every bite!