Talk about a workhorse of a recipe. This one is so versatile, I want to make it all the time. Plus, it’s crazy simple and everyone in our house loves it! Its a win, win (win, win–that was 4, if you’re counting). From tacos to sandwiches to just forks, this pork goes the distance.
I made this version of a pork roast because I was craving pork tacos. I wanted a savory pork without a ton of spices, but most recipes for carnitas I saw contained loads of chili powder and citrus juices. I decided to try it, but it just wasn’t what I had been craving. It was too citrusy and didn’t have the savory depth I was looking for. Thankfully, I had bought 2 pork roasts–I ALWAYS buy extra.
On the next go, I simplified things…A LOT. Garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and a little chicken stock. That’s it. I figured, worst case, it would just be a little bland, but it would still be good with taco toppings or smothered in BBQ sauce. I let it cook most of the day in my favorite slow cooker, paying no attention to it except for the crazy delicious smell.
When it was finally time to taste, I felt it was good, but it was missing something. Then I remembered I had lard in the freezer that a friend had rendered from some of her family’s hogs. I don’t know what possessed me to add it, but I did. Turns out, it was exactly what this needed! Maybe my pork roast was a bit on the lean side, but I’ve made this exact recipe several times since with different roast cuts and the lard always takes it over the top. Trust me, fat is good and you need some in your life.
To be fair, I realize that not everyone has friend who gifts them lard. I also realize it may sound a bit weird to be gifted lard, but its not, its fantastic! Anyway, you can get lard at many grocery stores and certainly at local meat markets or farms. Just check around a bit and you’re sure to find some! When you do, give this easy slow cooker pork roast a try. You will not be disappointed!
Slow Cooker Shredded Pork Roast
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb pork roast
- 1 cup unsalted chicken stock or water
- 6 cloves garlic smashed
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 3-4 tablespoons lard
Instructions
- Place chicken stock or water in the bottom of slow cooker. Coat pork roast in the salt and pepper. Place roast, paprika, and garlic in slow cooker and cook on High for 4-6 hours or Low 6-8 hours. Once cook time is complete, shred in slow cooker with 2 forks (this will take very little effort--it just falls apart). Add lard and stir. Add more salt and pepper to taste. Serve it up!
Notes