Cuban Mojo Pork Recipe
Welcome to our Cuban Mojo Pork Recipe! In this article, we will share with you a delicious and flavorful recipe that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Cuba. This recipe combines the succulent flavors of marinated pork with citrusy and garlicky mojo sauce. Whether you’re hosting a Cuban-themed party or simply craving a taste of the Caribbean, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cuban Mojo Pork recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Secondly, the combination of citrus juices, garlic, and herbs creates a marinade that infuses the pork with a burst of tangy and savory flavors. Lastly, this recipe yields tender and juicy pork that will melt in your mouth with every bite.
Ingredients
For the marinade, you will need:
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the pork, you will need:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder or butt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a bowl, combine the orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. Place the pork shoulder or butt in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it is fully coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the pork from the marinade and discard the excess marinade. Place the pork on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Once cooked, remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.
6. Slice or shred the pork, and serve it hot with a drizzle of the reserved mojo sauce.
Expert Tips for Success
– For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a splash of rum to the marinade.
– Marinating the pork overnight will result in a more flavorful and tender end result.
– If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the pork in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 2-3 hours, or until it reaches the desired doneness.
Variations and Substitutions
– If you prefer chicken over pork, you can easily swap the meat in this recipe. The marinade works beautifully with chicken thighs or drumsticks.
– For a vegetarian twist, you can marinate tofu or tempeh in the mojo sauce and then grill or bake it until golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
This Cuban Mojo Pork is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:
– Serve the sliced or shredded pork in warm tortillas with your favorite taco toppings, such as diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
– Pair the pork with black beans and rice for a classic Cuban meal.
– Make a Cuban sandwich by layering the pork with Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on a crispy baguette.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of pork?
A: While pork shoulder or butt is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can also use pork tenderloin or even pork chops. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut of meat.
Q: Can I make the mojo sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The mojo sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to give it a good stir before using it.
Final Thoughts
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to Cuba with this mouthwatering Cuban Mojo Pork recipe. The combination of zesty citrus juices, garlic, and fragrant herbs will transport your taste buds to the sunny streets of Havana. Whether you’re hosting a Cuban-themed party or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is a must-try. So fire up the grill, grab your marinating ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a truly delicious and flavorful meal.
We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do! Don’t forget to share your cooking adventures with us in the comments below. Buen provecho!
Cuban Mojo Pork Recipe
Experience the vibrant flavors of Cuba with this delicious and flavorful Cuban Mojo Pork recipe. Marinated pork infused with citrusy and garlicky mojo sauce, creating a tender and juicy dish that will impress your guests or satisfy your Caribbean cravings.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 pounds pork shoulder or butt
Directions
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In a bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
-
Place pork shoulder or butt in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the pork. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
-
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
-
Remove the pork from the marinade, discard excess, and grill for about 25-30 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
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Let the cooked pork rest for 10 minutes, then slice or shred and serve hot with reserved mojo sauce drizzle.
