Xanthan Gum 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 spice rub of turmeric, ginger, Ceylon cinnamon, oregano, and thyme builds a warm, layered flavor that goes way beyond a standard taco night. Bone broth, fresh lime juice, and apple cider vinegar create a bright, savory braising liquid that keeps the pork incredibly juicy throughout the long cook. For anyone navigating thickener-free cooking, this recipe is naturally in the clear — every ingredient is a whole food or pantry spice, with zero need for any binding or stabilizing agents at any step. The magic here comes entirely from time, heat, and good technique. That final drizzle of reserved braising liquid over the crisped pork is a small move that makes a huge difference, adding back moisture and punchy flavor right before serving. Finish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime and you've got something that tastes like it took serious effort — even though your slow cooker did most of the work.
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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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