Cuban Mojo Pork, a flavorful and aromatic dish, captures the essence of Cuban cuisine. This recipe features a delightful combination of citrus juices, garlic, and herbs, creating a marinade that infuses the pork with vibrant flavors. The result is tender, juicy pork with a perfect balance of tangy and savory notes. Let’s dive into this delectable Cuban classic!
Ingredients
To make Cuban Mojo Pork, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into large chunks
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Combine Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped garlic, fresh orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano leaves, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend: Blend the ingredients until smooth, creating the mojo marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Pork
- Prepare the Pork: Trim any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cut it into large chunks.
- Marinate: Place the pork chunks in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate: Marinate the pork in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 3: Cook the Pork
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Remove the pork from the marinade and transfer it to a large baking dish or roasting pan. Reserve the marinade for later use.
- Cover and Roast: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and roast the pork in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Step 4: Finish the Pork
- Remove Foil: Uncover the pork and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Roast for an additional 30 minutes to allow the pork to brown and develop a crispy exterior.
- Reduce Marinade: While the pork is finishing, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Serve
- Shred and Sauce: Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Shred the pork using two forks and drizzle the reduced marinade over the top.
- Garnish: Garnish with additional fresh oregano leaves if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Citrus Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits, such as grapefruit or tangerine, for a unique twist on the classic mojo flavor.
- Grilling Option: If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can grill the marinated pork over medium heat until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the Cuban Mojo Pork with rice and black beans, fried plantains, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork? Yes, you can use pork loin or pork tenderloin for a leaner option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these cuts will cook faster than pork shoulder.
How long can I marinate the pork? For the best flavor, marinate the pork for at least 4 hours, but overnight is preferred. Avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as the acid in the citrus juices can start to break down the meat.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes, you can cook the marinated pork in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until tender. Finish by reducing the marinade on the stovetop as directed.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftover Cuban Mojo Pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Keto/Low Carb Version
Cuban Mojo Pork is naturally keto-friendly. Ensure that the side dishes you serve it with, such as cauliflower rice or a green salad, are also low in carbs to maintain a keto-friendly meal.
Cuban Mojo Pork is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Cuban cuisine to your table. The combination of citrus juices, garlic, and herbs creates a marinade that infuses the pork with delicious flavors, resulting in tender, juicy meat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
We hope you enjoy making and eating this Cuban Mojo Pork recipe as much as we do! If you try it, leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!
