This Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is bursting with flavor! It’s made with juicy pork, garlic, and zesty citrus that makes your mouth water just thinking about it.
When it’s time to cook, the aroma fills my kitchen, and it feels like a little party! I love serving it with rice or plantains for a complete meal. So good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: A classic choice for this dish, pork shoulder is juicy and flavorful. If you want a leaner option, you can use pork loin, but it may be a bit less tender. If you’re in a pinch, chicken thighs can also work well.
Fresh Orange Juice: Sweet oranges are ideal for their natural sweetness. If fresh oranges aren’t available, bottled juice works too but aim for 100% juice without added sugar.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan or have an allergic reaction, parsley can be a good substitute, although it has a different taste.
Spices: Ground cumin and oregano are key to the mojo flavor. If you don’t have cumin, try ground coriander for a different twist. Dried oregano can be swapped with Italian seasoning for a unique taste.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Is Packed With Flavor?
Maximizing flavor in your pork comes from the marinating process. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Marinate overnight: For the best taste, let the pork sit in the marinade for at least 4 hours, but overnight is preferable.
- Seal it well: Use a resealable bag or cover the dish tightly to ensure the marinade clings to the meat.
- Tenderize the meat: If you have time, you can pierce the pork with a fork to help the marinade absorb more deeply.
This method will give you deliciously tender and flavor-packed pork that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork:
- 3 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt, boneless
- For the Mojo Marinade:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (preferably sweet oranges)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours for marinating—preferably overnight for the best flavor. Cooking time is about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your method. So, you can easily plan ahead for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the fresh orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything together well until combined—this is your mojo marinade!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Take the pork shoulder and place it in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated on all sides. If using a bag, seal it tightly, or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the pork for at least 4 hours or overnight to let those flavors soak in.
3. Prepare for Cooking:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C). After marinating, take the pork out of the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
4. Cook the Pork:
Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the marinade. If grilling, place the pork on the grill and cook for about 20-30 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and it’s nicely charred. If roasting in the oven, place the pork on a rack in a roasting pan and roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting occasionally with some pan juices or remaining marinade, until fully cooked.
5. Slice and Serve:
Once the pork is cooked, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps to keep the juices locked in! Serve your delightful pork with rice, beans, fried plantains, or your favorite sides. Enjoy your succulent Cuban mojo pork!
This recipe will give you a tender, juicy piece of pork infused with delightful citrus mojo flavor and a gorgeous caramelized crust. Perfect for family gatherings or a fun dinner party!
FAQ for Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or butt are traditional choices for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork loin for a leaner option. Just be mindful that it may cook faster and could be less juicy.
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork?
For the best flavor, marinate the pork for at least 4 hours, but overnight is highly recommended. This allows the mojo flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat for a deliciously rich taste.
What Can I Serve with Mojo Pork?
This pork pairs wonderfully with rice and beans, but you can also serve it with fried plantains, a side salad, or roasted vegetables. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the pork cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
