Irresistible Weight Watchers Slow Cooker Carnitas: Easy, Flavorful, and Healthy Pulled Pork
While pork might not be a staple in my weekly meal plan (bacon being the delightful exception, of course!), when I do decide to cook it, I always aim for a dish that truly delivers on taste and satisfaction. My deep appreciation for tender, shredded pork led me on a culinary journey to perfect a Weight Watchers carnitas recipe. This Mexican-inspired pulled pork isn’t just a meal; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavor that’s both incredibly satisfying and perfectly aligned with a healthy eating lifestyle.
Imagine succulent pork, slow-cooked to absolute perfection, falling apart with the gentlest touch of a fork. That’s exactly what this carnitas recipe promises. It delivers pork that’s unbelievably tender, wonderfully juicy, and packed with an authentic, zesty flavor that will make your taste buds sing. The secret to consistent success lies in the magic of your slow cooker – making tender, delicious carnitas achievable every single time with minimal effort. But its charm doesn’t stop at its incredible taste; its versatility is truly unmatched. You can transform it into delightful wraps, create hearty rice bowls, elevate a plate of nachos, or simply savor it on its own. Regardless of how you choose to serve this mouthwatering dish, I guarantee you’ll be captivated by its deliciousness and find yourself craving more!
And if you’re eager to explore more convenient and delicious meal options, don’t forget to check out my extensive collection of slow cooker recipes. They are designed to make healthy eating both easy and enjoyable, just like this carnitas!
Three Irresistible Reasons to Make This Weight Watchers Carnitas Recipe!
Choosing what to cook can sometimes feel like a chore, but this Weight Watchers carnitas recipe makes the decision effortless. Here are three compelling reasons why this slow cooker marvel deserves a prime spot in your culinary repertoire:
1. Effortless Slow Cooker Perfection: A Win for Any Busy Schedule
A slow cooker recipe is always a game-changer in my kitchen, and this one is no exception. There’s something inherently comforting and convenient about letting a crockpot do all the hard work. You simply set it, forget it, and let the flavors develop throughout the day. As the pork shoulder slowly braises, it fills your home with an enticing, savory aroma that promises a delicious meal to come. Your family will undoubtedly be excited to gather around the table and dive into this tender, flavorful carnitas, making dinner time a stress-free and enjoyable experience.
2. Elevate Your Taco Tuesday (and Beyond!): A Flavorful Twist
Taco Tuesday is a beloved tradition, but why stick to the same old ground beef when you can easily switch things up with these incredible carnitas? This recipe offers a fantastic way to introduce new and exciting flavors to your weekly menu. The rich, savory, and slightly citrusy notes of the slow-cooked pork provide a delightful alternative that will truly wow your family and guests. Prepare for requests for “more carnitas, please!” – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a festive and authentic Mexican flair to any meal.
3. A Nutritional Powerhouse: Low in Fat, High in Protein
For those mindful of their nutritional intake, especially if you’re following Weight Watchers, this carnitas recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s specifically designed to be low in fat and remarkably high in protein. Each three-ounce serving of this flavorful pork packs a whopping 39 grams of protein, making it an incredibly satisfying and muscle-building component for any meal. This makes it an ideal option for maintaining satiety, supporting your fitness goals, and enjoying a delicious meal without compromising your healthy eating plan. It’s comfort food that truly nourishes!
Recipe Snapshot: Weight Watchers Slow Cooker Carnitas
Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when making this fantastic dish:
- Serving Size: 3 oz
- Number of Servings: 10
- Prep Time: Approximately 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 5 minutes (can be adjusted for low heat)
- WW Points Per Recipe: 8 WW points per serving (Click here to view the recipe in the WW app. WW login is required)
Essential Ingredients for Flavorful WW Carnitas
The beauty of this Weight Watchers carnitas recipe lies in its simple yet powerful ingredient list. Each component plays a crucial role in building the incredible depth of flavor that makes this pulled pork so special. You’ll need:
- 3.5-4 pound pork shoulder (also known as pork butt, a great cut for slow cooking)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil (helps the seasoning adhere and adds richness)
- 1/2 Tbsp dried oregano (a classic Mexican herb, essential for authentic flavor)
- 1/2 Tbsp cumin (adds warmth and earthiness)
- 1/2 Tbsp thyme (contributes a subtle herbaceous note)
- 1 tsp chili powder (for a mild, smoky heat)
- 1 tsp onion powder (enhances the savory base)
- Dash of salt and pepper (to taste, crucial for seasoning)
- 2 garlic cloves, diced (aromatic foundation)
- 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice, about 2 oranges (the secret ingredient for tenderness and a bright, authentic carnitas flavor)
Using fresh orange juice is highly recommended as it makes a noticeable difference in the final taste and tenderness compared to bottled juice.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Weight Watchers Carnitas
Preparing this healthy carnitas recipe is incredibly straightforward, thanks to the magic of the slow cooker. Follow these simple steps for perfectly tender and flavorful pulled pork:
- Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Begin by turning your slow cooker to the “high” setting. This allows it to preheat while you prepare the pork, ensuring even cooking from the start.
- Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine the dried oregano, cumin, thyme, chili powder, and onion powder. This spice blend forms the core of the carnitas’ savory flavor.
- Season the Pork: Lightly brush the pork shoulder with olive oil. Then, generously sprinkle it with salt and pepper, followed by the prepared seasoning mixture. Take your time to rub the spices thoroughly over all surfaces of the pork, ensuring every bite will be bursting with flavor.
- Load the Slow Cooker: Carefully place the seasoned pork shoulder into your slow cooker, ensuring the fat cap is facing upwards. As it cooks, the fat will render down, basting the meat and contributing to its incredible tenderness and juiciness.
- Add Liquids and Cook: Scatter the diced garlic around the pork, then pour the fresh-squeezed orange juice over everything. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 5-6 hours, or on low for 8-10 hours. The pork is done when it’s easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred and Re-Toss: Once cooked, carefully remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it thoroughly with the flavorful cooking liquids. This step ensures the pork reabsorbs all the delicious juices, keeping it moist and infusing it with even more flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Weight Watchers carnitas are now ready to be served! Get ready to savor this incredible, healthy, and satisfying meal.
This recipe yields 10 generous servings. For 1 serving (approximately 3 oz), the nutrition information is as follows: Calories 237, Fat 7 g, Saturated fat 2 g, Carbs 2 g, Fiber 0 g, Sugars 1 g, Sodium 100 mg, Protein 39 g. These macros make it an excellent choice for a balanced, protein-rich meal.
Creative Serving Ideas for Your Healthy Carnitas
One of the best things about these Weight Watchers carnitas is how incredibly versatile they are. Once you have a batch of this flavorful pulled pork, the meal possibilities are endless! Here are some exciting ways to incorporate them into your diet:
- Classic Carnitas Wraps: Use small, low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps for a light and refreshing meal. I love to add a sprinkle of a light cheese (if desired), a drizzle of a light ranch dressing or a zesty aioli, and a generous handful of fresh cilantro for an explosion of flavor. Add some chopped onions, salsa, or a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
- Loaded Bowls: Create hearty and satisfying bowls by serving the carnitas over a base of brown rice, cauliflower rice, quinoa, or even a crisp bed of salad greens. Top with your favorite fixings like black beans, corn salsa, avocado, pickled onions, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy finish.
- Nachos Reinvented: Elevate your nacho game by sprinkling these carnitas over a bed of whole-grain tortilla chips. Add a light cheese, sliced jalapeños, and bake until bubbly. Finish with fresh pico de gallo and a dollop of fat-free sour cream.
- Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Transform a simple baked potato into a fulfilling meal by stuffing it with warm carnitas. Add some steamed broccoli, a sprinkle of light cheese, and a dash of hot sauce for a comforting and nutritious dinner.
- Healthy Tostadas or Sopes: For a crunchy meal, spoon the carnitas onto crispy tostada shells or thick corn sopes. Top with refried beans, shredded lettuce, and a light queso fresco.
- Carnitas Salad: For a super light option, use the carnitas as a protein-packed topping for a vibrant salad with mixed greens, bell peppers, onions, and a light vinaigrette.
These ideas are just the beginning; feel free to experiment and discover your own favorite ways to enjoy this delicious and healthy pulled pork!
Pro Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Carnitas
To ensure your Weight Watchers carnitas turn out perfect every single time, keep these valuable tips and tricks in mind:
- No Need to Trim Fat (Initially): You might be tempted to trim off all the fat from the pork shoulder before cooking, especially for a Weight Watchers recipe. However, it’s best to leave the fat cap on during the slow cooking process. The fat renders down, infusing the meat with moisture and flavor. By the time the pork is cooked and tender, most of the fat will have rendered off into the cooking liquid and can be easily removed or drained before shredding the meat. This ensures maximum flavor and tenderness without excess fat in your final serving.
- Crisping for Authentic Texture: For truly authentic carnitas, many recipes call for a final crisping step. After shredding the pork and mixing it with the juices, you can spread the carnitas on a baking sheet and broil for 5-10 minutes, or until the edges are nicely browned and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. This step adds a wonderful textural contrast that mimics traditional carnitas.
- Storage and Meal Prep: This carnitas recipe is fantastic for meal prepping! The cooked pork will freeze exceptionally well for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags, preferably with a little bit of the cooking liquid to keep it moist. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. It will also keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Pork Cut Matters: A pork shoulder (also known as Boston butt) is the ideal cut for carnitas. Its balance of meat and fat ensures it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. Avoid leaner cuts like pork loin, which can dry out easily in the slow cooker.
- Adjusting Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference. If you like a little more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the spice rub. For a smokier flavor, a touch of smoked paprika can be a great addition.
More Delicious Recipes You’ll Enjoy:
If you loved the ease and flavor of these Weight Watchers Slow Cooker Carnitas, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic recipes from my kitchen, all designed to be delicious and fit into a mindful eating plan:
- Turkey Cheese Dip: A lighter take on a classic appetizer, perfect for sharing!
- Loaded Potato Pizza: All the flavors of a loaded baked potato, in a fun and satisfying pizza form.
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Bites: Bite-sized delights that are bursting with popular flavors, great for snacks or parties.
Making healthy choices doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or convenience. These recipes, including our incredible Weight Watchers Carnitas, are proof that delicious food can be a part of a balanced lifestyle. I encourage you to try them out and discover new favorites!
Weight Watchers Carnitas
Ingredients
- 3.5-4 pound pork shoulder
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 Tbsp dried oregano
- 1/2 Tbsp cumin
- 1/2 Tbsp thyme
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Dash of salt & pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice, about 2 oranges
Instructions
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Turn the slow cooker to high.
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In a small bowl mix together the oregano, cumin, thyme, chili powder, and onion powder.
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Brush the pork shoulder with the oil, sprinkle on the salt and pepper, and then rub on the seasoning mixture so it covers all areas of the pork.
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Place the pork in the slow cooker, fat cap facing up.
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Add in the diced garlic and fresh squeezed orange juice. Cook on high for 5-6 hours, or low for 8-10 hours.
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Remove the pork shoulder from the slow cooker then shred the pork using a fork. Place the shredded pork back into the slow cooker and mix with the liquid that is in the slow cooker.
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The pork is ready to be served after that. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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