Seeds 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 so the edges turn deeply caramelized and crisp. The seasoning blend of turmeric, ginger, Ceylon cinnamon, oregano, and thyme builds a warm, complex flavor that makes every bite feel anything but ordinary. Bright lime juice and apple cider vinegar cut through the richness of the pork, while a drizzle of coconut oil before broiling helps achieve that signature carnitas crunch without any seed-based oils sneaking in. For anyone navigating a seeds-free lifestyle, carnitas can be a minefield — many spice blends and store-bought seasonings hide sesame, cumin, or coriander, but every ingredient here is straightforward and easy to verify. The braising liquid gets spooned back over the crisped pork at the end, locking in moisture and tying all those bold flavors together. Serve it with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a finish that's bright, herbaceous, and completely satisfying. This is the kind of low-effort, high-reward meal that earns a permanent spot in your weeknight rotation.
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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.
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