This Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is a real crowd-pleaser! It’s juicy and packed with flavors from garlic, citrus, and spices. Perfect for your next family meal!
Honestly, the marinade is like a delicious magic potion! Just let the pork soak it all up, and you’ll be a kitchen hero. I love serving it with rice and beans for a complete feast! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal for marinating due to its fat content, which keeps it juicy during cooking. If you can’t find pork shoulder, a pork butt or even chicken thighs can be great alternatives.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice really brightens the flavor. You can substitute with store-bought juice, but for a twist, mix in some pineapple juice for added sweetness.
Lime Juice: Lime adds that zesty kick! If limes aren’t available, lemon juice works in a pinch. Just remember, it will alter the flavor a bit.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant touch. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be used, or leave it out altogether if you prefer.
Spices: Ground cumin and oregano are key flavors here. For a slight variation, try adding smoked paprika or a dash of ground coriander for a different flavor profile.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate the Pork?
Marinating is key to getting that delicious flavor into the pork. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the marinade thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors. The citrus juices are crucial as they help tenderize the meat.
- Use a resealable bag for easier mixing and better coverage. Seal it well to avoid any spills in the fridge.
- Marinate for at least 4 hours but overnight is best. This way, the pork absorbs all those tasty elements well!
- Before cooking, let the pork sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps in even cooking.
- Don’t skip resting the meat after cooking! This keeps it juicy and makes slicing easier.
With these tips and insights, your Cuban mojo marinated pork will turn out flavorful and tender every time! Enjoy your delicious meal!
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt, trimmed of excess fat
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time plus a minimum of 4 hours for marinating (ideally overnight). Cooking time will vary depending on your method: grill for about 20-30 minutes or roast in the oven for 1.5 to 2 hours. Total time can range from 4 to 6 hours, depending on marination and cooking time. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Create the Mojo Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the fresh orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you want some heat). Whisk the ingredients thoroughly to create a delicious mojo marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Place your pork shoulder or pork butt in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the meat, making sure it’s well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, and then pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 4 hours, but for the best flavor, overnight is ideal!
3. Prepare for Cooking:
When you’re ready to cook, take the pork out of the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. While the pork is warming up, preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you’re roasting.
4. Cook the Pork:
If grilling, cook the pork, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) (about 20-30 minutes depending on thickness). If oven roasting, place the pork in a roasting pan and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it’s tender and cooked through. Keep an eye on it for a nice caramelized exterior!
5. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, let the pork rest for about 10 minutes. Resting helps keep the juices locked in, ensuring a succulent bite!
6. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the pork against the grain into delicious pieces. Serve it warm and feel free to garnish with fresh cilantro and additional lime wedges for that extra zing!
This juicy, flavorful Cuban mojo pork pairs perfectly with rice, black beans, and fried plantains for an authentic Cuban meal experience. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! While pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness and fat content, you can also use pork loin or chicken thighs if preferred. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork?
For the best flavor, marinate the pork overnight. However, if you’re short on time, marinating for at least 4 hours will still impart great flavor. Just make sure to keep it in the fridge while marinating!
What Can I Serve with Cuban Mojo Pork?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice and black beans or fried plantains. You could also serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to preserve the moisture and flavor.
Feel free to ask more questions if you have any! Enjoy cooking!
