Juicy Cuban Mojo Pork Roast Recipe for Bold Flavor and Tender Meat

Why You’ll Love This Cuban Mojo Pork

Imagine pulling a tender, juicy piece of pork from the oven, its aroma filling your kitchen with hints of citrus and spice. This Cuban Mojo Pork recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings bold flavors to your table without much fuss. You’ll appreciate how it turns simple ingredients into a meal that’s both satisfying and exciting, perfect for sharing with family and friends on any night.

One reason you’ll fall for this dish is its ease of preparation. The recipe is straightforward, using everyday items like fresh herbs and citrus, and it comes together with minimal steps, making it ideal for busy parents or working professionals who want a homemade dinner without hassle. Plus, the marinade does most of the work overnight, infusing the pork with amazing taste while you relax.

What really sets this Cuban Mojo Pork apart is its health benefits and versatility. Loaded with lean protein from the pork and vitamins from garlic, lime, and herbs, it’s a smart choice for diet-conscious folks or those following gluten-free and low-carb plans. You can serve it with rice, veggies, or salad, adapting it to fit everyone’s needs, whether you’re cooking for seniors, students, or food enthusiasts exploringferencing new tastes.

The distinctive flavor comes from a vibrant mix of tangy citrus, garlic, and spices, creating a refreshing yet savory profile that’s hard to resist. It’s no wonder this recipe inspires travelers and newlyweds to recreate vacation vibes at home. For more ideas on healthy eating, check out this guide to pork’s nutritional value.

Essential Ingredients for Cuban Mojo Pork

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this tasty dish shine. Below is a complete list based on the traditional recipe, ensuring you have everything needed for a flavorful marinade and tender pork. I’ve listed each item with its precise measurement to make shopping and prep a breeze.

• 4 pounds (2 kg) boneless, skinless pork shoulder or pork butt
• 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup lightly packed cilantro or coriander
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 3/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup lightly packed mint leaves
• 8 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves (or 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• For the mojo sauce: 2 tablespoons lime juice
• For the mojo sauce: 1/4 cup orange juice
• For the mojo sauce: Salt and pepper to taste
• For the mojo sauce: 2 tablespoons of roasting pan drippings

Special Dietary Options:

• Vegan: Swap pork with jackfruit or seitan for a plant-based twist.
• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just double-check any add-ons.
• Low-calorie: Cut back on oil or use a lighter substitute to keep things healthy.

Did you know that olive oil adds a wonderful moisture to the pork? Learn about its perks in this overview of olive oil benefits, which can help you feel good about your choices in the kitchen.

How to Prepare the Perfect Cuban Mojo Pork: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting started with Cuban Mojo Pork is all about that magic marinade, which brings out the best in the meat. First, blend all the marinade ingredients 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 cup lightly packed cilantro, 1 tablespoon orange zest, 3/4 cup fresh orange juice, 1/2 cup lime juice, 1/4 cup lightly packed mint leaves, 8 garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper until they’re finely chopped for maximum flavor.

Once blended, rub this mixture all over the 4 pounds of pork shoulder and let it marinate overnight in the fridge; this step is key for tender results. After marinating, let the pork sit at room temperature for about 1 hour to even out the cooking. For more pork ideas, check out our collection of pork recipes that pair well with this one.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and roast the pork uncovered for 30 minutes, basting with pan juices to lock in moisture. Then, drop the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and keep roasting for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes until it hits 160°F (70°C) inside for sliceable meat. If you want fall-apart tender pork, lower the heat to 320°F (160°C) and cook for about 3.5 hours until it shreds easily.

For the mojo sauce, mix 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1/4 cup orange juice, salt and pepper to taste, and 2 tablespoons of those tasty pan drippings after roasting. This makes a perfect drizzle to finish your dish. Remember, basting keeps everything juicy, so don’t skip it it’s like giving the pork a little hug as it cooks.

Adapting for Dietary Needs

If you’re making adjustments, use jackfruit with the same marinade for a vegan version, adjusting cook time as needed. Always baste to maintain that moisture, no matter the protein. This guide works for busy nights or weekend fun, inspiring you to experiment with ease.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Cuban Mojo Pork

Everyone has different tastes and needs, so tweaking this recipe is a great way to make it your own. Start with protein swaps like using chicken thighs or turkey breast instead of pork for a lighter meal that still soaks up all that mojo goodness.

For vegetable and seasoning changes, try swapping cilantro with parsley or adding orange juice for a sweeter edge. If you’re watching fats, avocado oil can stand in for olive oil, keeping things healthy and delicious. These small changes help food enthusiasts and baking fans create meals that fit their lifestyle.

Whether you’re a student short on time or a senior looking for simple tweaks, these options keep the dish flexible. Experimenting here can lead to fun discoveries, like a spicier version with added herbs it’s all about what excites your palate.

Mastering Cuban Mojo Pork: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’ve nailed the basics, level up your Cuban Mojo Pork with some pro techniques. For instance, searing the pork shoulder before roasting creates a crisp, caramelized crust that adds extra depth to the flavor. Here’s a quick table of roasting variations to guide you:

Flavor variations are endless try smoked paprika for a smoky twist or fresh jalapeño for some heat. Presentation is key, so serve the pork over rice with lime slices and herbs to make it pop on the plate.

For make-ahead meals, marinate overnight and cook early, then reheat gently. If you’re a working professional or busy parent, this saves time without losing taste think shredded pork for quick tacos during the week.

How to Store Cuban Mojo Pork: Best Practices

Storing your Cuban Mojo Pork properly keeps it fresh and flavorful for later. Pop leftovers into airtight containers and chill in the fridge within 2 hours; they’ll stay good for up to 4 days, making meal prep easy for students or working folks.

For longer storage, wrap the pork tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze it in a safe bag it lasts up to 3 months. When reheating, use the oven or stove at low heat to keep things moist and tasty; skip the microwave to avoid drying it out.

Meal prep tips include dividing portions into single containers, labeling with dates, and reheating as needed. This way, seniors or newlyweds can enjoy a quick, homemade meal any day, keeping that Cuban vibe alive.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Cuban Mojo Pork

Cuban Mojo Pork

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🍖 Experience the authentic flavors of Cuba with this incredibly tender pork roast that’s marinated in a zesty citrus and herb blend for maximum flavor penetration
🌿 Transform a simple pork shoulder into a show-stopping centerpiece that delivers juicy, aromatic meat with every bite, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions

• Total Time: 14 hours 50 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

– 4 pounds (2 kg) boneless, skinless pork shoulder or pork butt

– 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

– 1 cup lightly packed cilantro or coriander

– 1 tablespoon orange zest

– 3/4 cup fresh orange juice

– 1/2 cup lime juice

– 1/4 cup lightly packed mint leaves

– 8 garlic cloves

– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves (or 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano)

– 2 teaspoons ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1 teaspoon black pepper

– 2 tablespoons lime juice for the mojo sauce

– 1/4 cup orange juice for the mojo sauce

– Salt and pepper to taste for the mojo sauce

– 2 tablespoons of roasting pan drippings for the mojo sauce

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Instructions

1-Getting started with Cuban Mojo Pork is all about that magic marinade, which brings out the best in the meat. First, blend all the marinade ingredients 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 cup lightly packed cilantro, 1 tablespoon orange zest, 3/4 cup fresh orange juice, 1/2 cup lime juice, 1/4 cup lightly packed mint leaves, 8 garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper until they’re finely chopped for maximum flavor.

2-Once blended, rub this mixture all over the 4 pounds of pork shoulder and let it marinate overnight in the fridge; this step is key for tender results. After marinating, let the pork sit at room temperature for about 1 hour to even out the cooking. For more pork ideas, check out our collection of pork recipes that pair well with this one.

3-Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and roast the pork uncovered for 30 minutes, basting with pan juices to lock in moisture. Then, drop the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and keep roasting for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes until it hits 160°F (70°C) inside for sliceable meat. If you want fall-apart tender pork, lower the heat to 320°F (160°C) and cook for about 3.5 hours until it shreds easily.

4-For the mojo sauce, mix 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1/4 cup orange juice, salt and pepper to taste, and 2 tablespoons of those tasty pan drippings after roasting. This makes a perfect drizzle to finish your dish. Remember, basting keeps everything juicy, so don’t skip it it’s like giving the pork a little hug as it cooks.

5-If you’re making adjustments, use jackfruit with the same marinade for a vegan version, adjusting cook time as needed. Always baste to maintain that moisture, no matter the protein. This guide works for busy nights or weekend fun, inspiring you to experiment with ease.

Last Step:

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Notes

🌿 For the most authentic flavor, use fresh cilantro and oregano rather than dried versions – they provide brighter, more vibrant taste
🍖 Let the pork rest at room temperature for an hour before roasting to ensure even cooking and better temperature control
🔥 For extra crispy edges, increase the oven temperature to 425°F for the final 10 minutes of cooking time

• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Marinating Time: 12 hours
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: Cuban
• Diet: Not vegetarian/vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 ounces
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 110mg