Everybody loves tacos. They’re the perfect crowd-pleaser when you pick the right protein. Pork carnitas is my go-to choice for a large batch situation. Starting with an inexpensive pork shoulder roast, it’s easy to prepare enough to feed 8 to 10 hungry adults. The key to making perfect carnitas is to braise low and slow, then let the meat fry in its own fat to create those distinctively flavorful, crispy bits that set really great carnitas apart.
I’ve found my Fagor 3-In-1 Multi-Cooker is the ideal appliance for creating perfect carnitas. Better than a standard slow cooker, a multi-cooker has a slow cooking function, a pressure cooking function and even a rice cooker setting. Plus, the Fagor unit offers a “Brown” function that’s ideal for creating crispy carnitas. Simply add all the ingredients to the cooking pot and braise for about 4 hours using the “High” slow cooker function. Then, remove the lid from the multi-cooker and switch to “Brown” until the moisture evaporates and the meat begins to brown, leaving behind flavorful, fork-tender carnitas with perfect, crispiness in every bite. Round out the meal with some cilantro-lime rice, a pile of tortillas and a variety of gourmet toppings such as shredded cabbage, chopped onions and cilantro, diced avocado and a can of seasoned black beans.