Faux Smoked Pulled Pork (Carnitas)

Before I had a smoker, I used this to satisfy my pulled pork or carnitas craving. This meat is great in pulled pork sandwiches (see my coleslaw recipe) or in tacos. If you do not have all the spice rub ingredients, just get creative and use what you have. It will still turn out great. It is always a party-favorite. Enjoy.

• Preparation Time: 20 mins
• Cooking Time: 6 hr
• Total Time: 6 hr 20 mins
• Calories: 309 Calories

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cups water
• salt to taste
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon mustard seed
• 2 tablespoons liquid smoke flavoring
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 (3 pound) pork butt roast, or more to taste
• 2 dried chipotle chile peppers, or to taste (Optional)

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Mix brown sugar, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, oregano, onion powder, mustard seed, black pepper, cumin, coriander, and salt together in a small bowl.

Step 2

Rub pork roast liberally with brown sugar mixture.

Step 3

Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add pork roast; cook until browned, 3 to 5 minutes per side.

Step 4

Transfer pork to a slow cooker. Add water, liquid smoke, and chipotle peppers.

Step 5

Cook on Low until pork is tender, about 6 hours. Transfer pork to a cutting board and pull apart with tongs.