This Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is bursting with flavors! A tasty blend of citrus, garlic, and spices makes the pork tender and juicy. It’s perfect for dinner or a special occasion!
The best part? Just let it marinate and the oven does the rest! I can’t resist making extra—you’ll want to savor every bite! 🥳
I love serving it with rice and beans, making for a simple but delicious meal. Trust me, your family will ask for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it turns tender and juicy. If pork shoulder isn’t available, pork butt works well too. For a leaner option, you might try a pork loin, but it won’t be as juicy.
Orange Juice: Fresh orange juice is a must for its bright flavor! If you can’t find sweet oranges, Valencia oranges or even tangerine juice make great substitutes. I love adding zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a lovely depth to the marinade. If you’re in a pinch, you could use garlic powder—just remember to reduce the amount, as it’s more concentrated.
Cilantro and Parsley: These herbs provide freshness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can skip it or substitute with fresh basil for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from the Marinade?
Marinating is essential to infusing the pork with flavor. Here are a few tips:
- Marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
- Make sure to coat the pork evenly; using a resealable bag helps ensure all sides get exposure.
- Keep the pork in the fridge during marination to prevent any bacterial growth.
These steps will guarantee a wonderfully delicious result when you cook the pork! Don’t rush the marinating process for ideal tenderness and flavor!
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (or pork butt), trimmed
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (preferably sweet orange)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Zest of 1 orange (optional for extra orange aroma)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires at least 4 hours of marinating time, ideally overnight. Cooking time will be about 2.5 to 3 hours in the oven, with an additional 15 minutes for resting. In total, plan for a delicious meal with about 3 to 4 hours of active cooking time and marinating!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a bowl, mix together the fresh orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cilantro, parsley, ground cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and orange zest if you’re using it. Whisk everything well until combined to create a flavorful mojo marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Put the pork shoulder into a large resealable plastic bag or a deep dish. Pour the prepared mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring it gets well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight for that deep, rich flavor.
3. Prepare to Cook:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the pork from the marinade, but keep the marinade to use later.
4. Sear the Pork:
In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat the pan over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until it’s beautifully browned and caramelized, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Roast in the Oven:
Once seared, pour the reserved marinade over the pork in the pan. Cover it with foil or a lid and then place it in the preheated oven. Roast the pork for around 2.5 to 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) and becomes tender enough to shred easily.
6. Rest and Serve:
Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. After resting, slice or shred the pork as desired. Serve it with delicious sides like rice, black beans, and fried plantains for a true Cuban feast!
Enjoy your succulent, flavorful Cuban Mojo Pork!
FAQ for Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork Recipe
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, you can! While pork shoulder is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, pork butt works well too. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use pork loin, but be aware it might 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 even better! This allows the spices and citrus to infuse the meat thoroughly.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! After marinating, sear the pork just as you would for the oven. Then, place it in the slow cooker, add the marinade, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until it’s tender and easy to shred.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the pork gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. For best results, add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist during reheating!
