Slow Cooker Carnitas with Apple Salsa

Slow cooker carnitas with apple salsa. Pork carnitas with apple salsa is a juicy, fall-off-the-bone delicacy. The recipe is easy to make and features the delicious flavors of cinnamon and cilantro.

. Adapted from https://sweetpeasandsaffron.com

How to Make Mexican Carnitas in a Slow Cooker

Slow cooker carnitas with apple salsa is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender, flavorful pork with a refreshing and tangy apple salsa. This recipe is incredibly easy to make and will impress your family and friends with its delicious flavors.

To make the carnitas, start by seasoning 2 pounds of boneless pork shoulder with salt and placing it in a slow cooker. In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups of apple cider, 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1 cup of brown sugar, a cinnamon stick, and a bay leaf. Pour this mixture over the pork in the slow cooker, ensuring that the meat is fully submerged. Cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

While the carnitas are cooking, prepare the apple salsa. Dice 2 apples and combine them with chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Once the carnitas are done, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat. Serve the carnitas on warm tortillas, topped with the apple salsa and any other desired toppings such as diced onions or avocado.

The combination of the tender, flavorful pork, and the refreshing apple salsa creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. This dish is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests. Give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness of slow cooker carnitas with apple salsa.

What are the benefits of making carnitas with apple salsa?

The benefits of making carnitas with apple salsa are that it is simple to make, healthy, and flavorful.

Slow cooker carnitas with apple salsa is a dish that has all the benefits of a slow cooker meal. It is simple to make and easy to clean up afterward. It is also healthy for you because it does not have any added sugar or sodium. The flavor of this dish comes from apple cider, which adds more flavor than salt can provide. This dish also contains less than half the fat found in traditional carnitas recipes.

Pork Carnitas Serving Suggestions

Pork carnitas are a versatile and delicious dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to help you enjoy your slow cooker carnitas to the fullest.

1. Tacos: The most traditional way to serve pork carnitas is in warm tortillas. Fill the tortillas with a generous amount of shredded pork, top with the apple salsa, and add your favorite toppings such as diced onions, avocado, or sour cream. The combination of flavors and textures in a taco is simply irresistible.

2. Burritos: For a heartier meal, wrap the shredded pork and apple salsa in a large flour tortilla to make a flavorful burrito. You can also add rice, beans, and cheese for extra filling and flavor.

3. Nachos: Turn your pork carnitas into a crowd-pleasing appetizer by layering tortilla chips with shredded pork, melted cheese, and apple salsa. Bake in the oven until the cheese is bubbly and serve with guacamole and sour cream.

4. Quesadillas: Make a quick and easy meal by stuffing flour tortillas with shredded pork and cheese. Cook the quesadillas on a griddle or in a skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. Serve with the apple salsa on the side for dipping.

5. Salad: For a lighter option, use the shredded pork as a topping for a fresh salad. Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, and any other desired vegetables. Drizzle with a tangy dressing and sprinkle the shredded pork on top.

These serving suggestions are just a starting point. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ways to enjoy your pork carnitas. The key is to savor the tender, flavorful meat and the tangy apple salsa in every bite.

How to Store Carnitas Leftovers

After enjoying a delicious meal of slow cooker carnitas, you may find yourself with some leftovers. Don’t let them go to waste! Here are some tips on how to store your carnitas leftovers to ensure they stay fresh and flavorful.

1. Refrigerate: If you plan on consuming the leftovers within a few days, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to separate the meat from any toppings or sauces to prevent them from becoming soggy. The carnitas will stay moist and tender in the fridge, ready to be reheated for another meal.

2. Freeze: If you have a larger amount of leftovers or want to save them for a longer period, freezing is the way to go. Place the carnitas in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification. Frozen carnitas can be stored for up to three months.

3. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your stored carnitas, there are a few ways to reheat them. For refrigerated leftovers, simply heat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If you’re reheating frozen carnitas, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also reheat them in the microwave or oven, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your slow cooker carnitas even after the initial meal. Whether you choose to refrigerate or freeze your leftovers, you’ll have a convenient and tasty option for future meals. So go ahead and savor every bite of your slow cooker carnitas, knowing that you can enjoy them again and again.

Slow Cooker Carnitas with Apple Salsa

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