Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork

Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork is a dish that captures the essence of vibrant Cuban flavors right in your kitchen. Picture this: a succulent pork shoulder, marinated in a blend of citrus juices, fresh herbs, and aromatic garlic, slowly roasting to perfection. As the pork cooks, the savory scents fill your home, making your mouth water in anticipation. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this recipe offers a delightful combination of zesty and earthy notes. Plus, it’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare, giving you more time to enjoy other parts of your meal or simply relax. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get this delicious journey started!

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Why This Recipe Works

Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork combines the vibrant flavors of citrus and herbs with succulent pork, resulting in a dish that’s both tender and flavorful. The marinade penetrates deeply, creating a perfect balance of zesty and earthy notes that characterize traditional Cuban cuisine. The key aspect of this recipe lies in the marinade itself, which brings out the best of the pork. Using fresh ingredients helps these flavors shine. This marriage of ingredients ensures that each bite is packed with goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork

This recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly simple. The hands-off roasting process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you relax or prepare the rest of your meal. Serve it at gatherings or enjoy it for a special Sunday dinner—it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Imagine your guests savoring each bite, and you can bask in the compliments that follow. Whether it’s a weekend treat or an everyday dish, this Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 3/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup lightly packed mint leaves, finely chopped
• 8 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon minced oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• Kosher salt and pepper
• 3 1/2 pounds boneless pork shoulder (in one piece)

Gather these ingredients, and let’s embark on making this mouthwatering Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork!

Preparing the Mojo Marinade

Creating the Marinade Mixture

To create that fantastic marinade, you’ll need a food processor. Start by combining orange juice, cilantro leaves, mint leaves, and smashed garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped. If you don’t have a food processor, no worries! Just mix olive oil, orange zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, chopped mint, minced garlic, oregano, and cumin in a large ziplock bag. Shake well until everything is well combined. This mixture is where the magic begins!

Marinating the Pork

Now, take that beautiful pork shoulder and add it to your marinade mixture in the ziplock bag. Seal it up and place it in a baking dish in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, let this marinate for at least a few hours or, if you can, overnight. This wait is worth it—the longer the pork marinates, the more those flavors penetrate the meat.

Roasting the Cuban Mojo Pork

Preheating the Oven

Before getting too excited, let’s preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). We want to start with a high temperature to get that deliciously browned exterior.

Setting Up for Roasting

Next, grab a wire rack and place it over a rimmed baking sheet. This setup allows air to circulate around the pork as it roasts, ensuring even cooking. Now, remove the pork from the marinade (and remember, discard that marinade). Season the pork generously with kosher salt and pepper for that extra layer of flavor.

Initial Roasting Phase

Now comes the fun part. Roast the pork at 425°F for about 30 minutes. This step gives the pork a gorgeous golden-brown crust. The sizzling sounds mingling with the aroma will stir your appetite!

Lowering the Temperature

After the initial roasting phase, it’s time to lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Continue roasting for another 1 hour and 20-30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 160°F (70°C). This slow cooking ensures the pork remains juicy and tender.

Resting and Serving

Letting the Pork Rest

Once your pork is out of the oven, don’t rush it—transfer it to a cutting board and cover it with aluminum foil. Letting it rest for at least 20 minutes allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making each slice incredibly moist.

Carving and Serving

When you’re ready, carve the pork against the grain. This technique is important for tenderness. Serve it up with your favorite sides, and get ready to enjoy the amazing flavors of your Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly authentic Cuban experience, enjoy your Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork with black beans, rice, or plantains. The contrast of flavors and textures will make your meal even more delightful.

Tips for Success

• For extra flavor, ensure the pork marinated for the full time. If you’re in a hurry, try to marinate it for at least 4 hours.
• Letting the pork rest before carving allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a moister outcome.

Variations

Want to spice things up? Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also experiment with different herbs. For instance, try swapping cilantro for parsley or basil to tweak the flavor profile to your liking.

Storage Tips

Have leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the pork in the oven to maintain its tenderness.

Pairing Ideas

Pair your Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork with a refreshing mojito or a light salad. These additions complement the rich flavors and enhance your dining experience.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different cut of pork?
A1: Yes, you can use pork loin, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q2: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A2: Absolutely! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so enjoy without worry.

Q3: How do I make it ahead of time?
A3: Marinate the pork a day in advance and roast it just before serving for the best experience.

Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
A4: Yes, you can freeze cooked pork. However, it’s best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Q5: What can I serve with mojo pork?
A5: Consider sides like rice, beans, or sweet plantains for a complete meal.

Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork is a celebration of flavor and culture. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this dish delivers the warmth and vibrancy of Cuban cuisine right to your table. Enjoy the tender, juicy meat enhanced by a zesty marinade—a guaranteed way to elevate any meal.

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