Nitrate & Nitrite Free Crockpot Pork Carnitas with Lime
Slow-cooked pork shoulder gets an incredible transformation here — braised low and slow until fall-apart tender, then finished under the broiler for those irresistible crispy, caramelized edges that make carnitas so craveable. The seasoning blend of turmeric, ginger, Ceylon cinnamon, oregano, and thyme builds a warm, complex flavor without relying on any cured or processed meats, which is exactly where hidden preservatives tend to sneak in. Bone broth, fresh lime juice, and apple cider vinegar do all the heavy lifting in the braising liquid, keeping everything bright and deeply savory using only clean, whole ingredients. For anyone avoiding processed deli meats or packaged seasonings that often contain hidden additives, this recipe is a genuinely satisfying way to get that rich, meaty fix from scratch. The final step — spooning reserved braising liquid back over the crisped pork — is a small move that makes a huge difference, locking in moisture while keeping every bite punchy and flavorful. Serve it with lime wedges and fresh cilantro and you've got a crowd-pleasing centerpiece that works in tacos, rice bowls, or straight off the pan.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
- 3 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 3-inch chunks
- 2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp ceylon cinnamon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 6 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 medium yellow onion, roughly chopped
- ½ cup bone broth
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
For serving
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine the salt, turmeric, ginger, Ceylon cinnamon, oregano, and thyme. Pat the pork shoulder chunks dry with paper towels, then rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of each piece.
- 2
Scatter the smashed garlic and chopped onion across the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Nestle the seasoned pork pieces on top in a single layer as much as possible.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!