When the vibrant colors and sounds of a bustling Cuban marketplace filled my senses during my last vacation, I had no idea how deeply it would inspire me in my own kitchen. One dish, in particular, stood out among the lively displays: the legendary Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork. The thought of that tender, juicy pork marinated in a tangy, garlicky sauce tantalized my taste buds and lingered long after I returned home.
With a simple combination of fresh citrus, aromatic herbs, and warm spices, this traditional recipe transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary. As the pork roasts, the kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that speaks of home and celebration, making it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering. Whether you’re serving it with rice and beans or layering it into a scrumptious Cubano sandwich, this dish promises to impress and satisfy. So, roll up your sleeves and join me in crafting this delicious taste of Cuba right in your own home!
Why is Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavors: The combination of citrus and garlic creates a symphony of taste that is both vibrant and comforting.
Easy to Prepare: Simply marinate the pork and let the oven do the work, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or use leftovers in delightful Cubano sandwiches, keeping meals exciting.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family gatherings, this dish is sure to become a favorite among friends and loved ones.
Rich Juiciness: The slow-roasting technique ensures you enjoy tender, flavorful pork that melts in your mouth.
Herb-Infused Delight: Fresh herbs elevate the experience, offering a taste of authentic Cuban cuisine right at home.
Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Provides moisture and flavor; essential for the marinade.
• Orange Zest – Adds a bright, aromatic citrus note to the marinade.
• Fresh Orange Juice – Balances acidity and sweetness in the marinade.
• Fresh Lime Juice – Contributes tanginess to enhance the citrus profile.
• Cilantro – Fresh herb that adds a savory depth to the marinade.
• Mint Leaves – Provides an aromatic flavor, balancing the citrus.
• Garlic Cloves – Essential for flavoring the pork; can be minced for a stronger taste.
• Minced Oregano and Dried Oregano – Adds an earthy flavor; various forms can be used interchangeably.
• Ground Cumin – Contributes a warm, earthy flavor; a crucial spice in Cuban cooking.
• Kosher Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings for enhancing flavor.
For the Pork
• Boneless Pork Shoulder (3.5 lbs) – The recommended cut for its tenderness and ability to absorb flavors from the Cuban roasted mojo marinade.
How to Make Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork
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Prepare Marinade: In a food processor or ziplock bag, combine fresh orange juice, cilantro, mint, and minced garlic. Add the olive oil, orange zest, lime juice, oregano, and cumin; blend well until smooth.
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Marinate Pork: Place the boneless pork shoulder into the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position a wire rack over a baking sheet for optimal roasting, allowing the heat to circulate evenly around the pork.
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Roast Pork: Remove the pork from the marinade (discard the marinade) and season generously with kosher salt and pepper. Roast for about 30 minutes until the pork has a lovely golden-brown color on the outside.
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Adjust Temperature: Lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (approximately 1 hour and 20-30 minutes more).
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Rest and Serve: Transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board. Cover with foil and let it rest for at least 20 minutes to lock in the juices before slicing against the grain for tender pieces.
Optional: Garnish with fresh lime wedges and additional cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this dish to your family’s taste! Each variation offers a delightful twist that will surely please your palate and make mealtime exciting.
- Bone-in Swap: Use bone-in pork shoulder for added flavor and richness that truly elevates your dish.
- Spice It Up: Add smoked paprika for a smoky kick or cayenne for an extra heat boost, igniting your taste buds.
- Herb Enhancements: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to mix up the flavor profile in your marinade.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute grapefruit juice or lemon juice for a different citrus angle that adds a unique zing.
- Sweet Surprise: Include a tablespoon of brown sugar in the marinade for a touch of sweetness merged with the citrus.
- Veggie Medley: Roast veggies like bell peppers or sweet potatoes alongside the pork, creating a complete meal in one tray.
- Cubano Delights: Transform leftovers into a vibrant Cubano sandwich with ham, Swiss cheese, and zesty pickles.
- Slow Cooker Option: For an effortless approach, marinate and cook the pork in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours; perfect for busy days!
How to Store and Freeze Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork
- Fridge: Store leftover Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping it flavorful and tender.
- Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the pork whole for up to 3-4 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To warm, wrap in foil and bake at 375°F for 10-20 minutes until heated through.
- Portioning: Consider slicing and storing in portions for easy meal prep, ensuring quick access to delicious leftovers throughout the week.
What to Serve with Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork?
Create an unforgettable meal experience that celebrates bold, vibrant flavors alongside your roasted masterpiece.
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Fluffy White Rice: A classic companion, it absorbs the delicious juices from the pork, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
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Crispy Plantain Chips: These addictive bites bring crunchy texture and a touch of sweetness that complements the savory pork delightfully.
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Black Beans: Rich in protein and fiber, seasoned black beans add earthy depth, making your meal hearty and satisfying.
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Fresh Avocado Salad: Cool and creamy avocado drizzled with lime elevates every bite, harmonizing beautifully with the bold mojo flavors.
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Warm Tortillas: Soft tortillas are perfect for wrapping slices of pork, creating satisfying bites that are easy to enjoy and full of flavor.
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Cuban Mojito: A refreshing cocktail made with mint and lime, the sparkle and freshness blend perfectly with the rich, garlicky pork.
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Coconut Rice Pudding: This sweet dessert adds a delightful tropical touch, wrapping up your meal on a creamy, sweet note.
Embrace the delicious experience of serving Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork with these diverse options that ensure every plate is a celebration!
Helpful Tricks for Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork
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Marinate Wisely: Make sure to marinate the pork shoulder for at least 6 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to truly penetrate the meat.
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Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to achieve the perfect internal temperature of 160°F, ensuring your Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork is never overcooked and remains juicy.
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Resting Time: After roasting, let the pork rest for at least 20 minutes under foil. This step is crucial for juicy, tender slices as it allows the juices to redistribute.
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Flavor Balance: Adjust the citrus levels according to your taste by adding more lime or orange juice for a zesty kick, making your pork uniquely yours.
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Slicing Technique: Always slice the pork against the grain to guarantee each bite is tender and easy to chew, enhancing the dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork preparations are a fantastic solution for busy weeknights! You can marinate the pork shoulder up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those vibrant flavors to develop fully. Just combine the marinade ingredients and coat the pork, then seal it in a bag and refrigerate overnight. If you’re not ready to cook right away, the marinated pork can remain in the fridge for up to 3 days before roasting. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast as directed, remembering to monitor the internal temperature for perfectly tender results. With these make-ahead options, you can enjoy a flavorful dish with minimal last-minute effort!
Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pork shoulder for this recipe?
When selecting your pork shoulder, look for one that has a good amount of marbling, which indicates fat content. This fat helps ensure your Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork remains juicy and flavorful during cooking. The shoulder should also be bright pink to deep red and free of any dark spots or blemishes, which can indicate spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftover Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days while retaining its delightful flavors. For longer storage, I recommend freezing it whole, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 to 4 months, which is perfect for meal prepping!
Can I freeze Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork, first allow it to cool completely after cooking. Then, wrap the pork tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, ensuring no air is trapped inside. This dual wrap will help prevent freezer burn. I suggest slicing the pork before freezing for easy meal portions later on, and you can freeze it for up to 3-4 months. When ready to consume, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What if the pork turns out dry?
Very! If your pork ends up dry, it’s often due to overcooking. To avoid this next time, always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—aim for an internal temperature of 160°F. Additionally, letting the pork rest after roasting for at least 20 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, which can prevent dryness. If you find your pork is already dry, try slicing it thinly and serving it in a flavorful sauce or gravy to add moisture back into your dish.
Are there any dietary considerations for serving this dish?
While this Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork is a delightful option for most diets, be cautious of any allergies, particularly to citrus or spices like cumin and oregano. As for pets, it’s best not to share, especially due to the salt content and possible spices which can be harmful to them. For gluten-free options, this dish works well, but always double-check any accompanying sauces or sides for hidden gluten ingredients.
How can I make the flavors of the marinade even stronger?
A great way to enhance the flavor is to marinate the pork shoulder for longer—up to 24 hours if possible. Also, consider adding extra fresh herbs like thyme and more garlic for an intensified taste. To add a twist, you might try incorporating some chili flakes for a bit of heat! Just remember to balance it with additional citrus if increasing the garlic.
Savory Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork Recipe for Flavor Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a food processor or ziplock bag, combine fresh orange juice, cilantro, mint, and minced garlic. Add the olive oil, orange zest, lime juice, oregano, and cumin; blend well until smooth.
- Place the boneless pork shoulder into the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position a wire rack over a baking sheet for optimal roasting, allowing the heat to circulate evenly around the pork.
- Remove the pork from the marinade (discard the marinade) and season generously with kosher salt and pepper. Roast for about 30 minutes until the pork has a lovely golden-brown color on the outside.
- Lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (approximately 1 hour and 20-30 minutes more).
- Transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board. Cover with foil and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing against the grain for tender pieces.