Easy Coca-Cola Carnitas

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This classic soda tenderizes pork shoulder, and classic carnitas spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano add balance. After cooking until the pork is super tender, reduce the sauce until it makes a delicious glaze.

Coca-Cola Carnitas
Photo: Jennifer Causey
Hands On Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
6 hrs 30 mins
Yield:
4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into 3-in. pieces

  • 1 cup Coca-Cola

  • 1 medium yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced

  • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • For serving:Corn or flour tortillas, cilantro, avocado, lime wedges, pico de gallo, pickled red onions, sliced radishes, cotija cheese

Directions

  1. Combine pork, Coca Cola, onion, garlic, salt, chili powder, cumin, and oregano in a 5-to 6-quart slow cooker and stir to combine. Cook on high, covered, until meat is tender and shreds easily, 5 to 6 hours.

  2. Transfer pork and liquid to a large saucepan and bring to a vigorous simmer over high. Cook, breaking up meat with a spoon, until liquid is reduced and coats meat, 15 to 18 minutes. Serve pork in warm tortillas with fixings on the side.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

339 Calories
19g Fat
7g Carbs
33g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Calories 339
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 19g 25%
Saturated Fat 7g 35%
Cholesterol 114mg 38%
Sodium 777mg 34%
Total Carbohydrate 7g 3%
Total Sugars 5g
Protein 33g

*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

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