This Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork recipe is packed with flavor! It uses a simple marinade made from garlic, citrus juice, and herbs to give the pork a delicious taste.
When I make this dish, the smells from the marinade fill my kitchen, making me feel like a pro chef! It’s super easy to prepare—just marinate, roast, and enjoy a tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is ideal due to its flavor and tenderness, especially when cooked slowly. You could also use pork tenderloin for a leaner option, but the cooking time will be shorter.
Orange Juice: Fresh juice adds the best flavor. If you can’t find sweet oranges, go for Valencia or even tangerine juice. In a pinch, bottled juice will work, but ensure it’s 100% juice without added sugars.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for that zesty kick. If you’re out of fresh limes, bottled juice is a suitable substitute, just check the ingredients.
Garlic: This recipe uses a good amount of garlic for flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can reduce the amount or use garlic powder—but fresh garlic gives the best taste.
How Do I Get the Most Flavor from My Marinade?
Getting full flavor from your marinade is key to this dish. Start with a good blend of citrus and spices to maximize taste. Let’s ensure your pork is well coated and marinating properly:
- Mix the marinade thoroughly to combine flavors; whisking helps.
- Marinate the pork for a minimum of 4 hours, but overnight is best for depth of flavor.
- Keep the pork in the refrigerator, and if possible, flip it halfway through to ensure even penetration of flavors.
These steps will help to really enhance the taste of your pork, making each bite delicious!
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder or pork roast
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (preferably sweet orange)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and marinate the pork. However, don’t forget about the additional cooking time of 1.5 to 2 hours. Planning for at least 4 hours total (or ideally overnight) for marinating yields the best flavor. So, set aside some time and enjoy the deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until the mixture is well blended. This will be your flavorful mojo marinade!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Place the pork shoulder into a large resealable plastic bag or a non-reactive dish (like glass or ceramic). Pour the prepared mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. For the best flavor, refrigerate and allow to marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is recommended.
3. Roast the Pork:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the pork from the marinade (but save it!) and place it in a roasting pan. Roast the pork uncovered for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the reserved marinade occasionally. The pork is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
After roasting, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your pork tender and juicy. Once rested, you can slice it up, garnish with fresh cilantro and parsley if you like, and serve it warm with sides like rice, black beans, or fried plantains.
Enjoy your flavorful, tender Cuban mojo marinated pork!
FAQ for Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! While pork shoulder is ideal for its flavor and tenderness, you can also use pork loin or tenderloin as alternatives. Just keep in mind that these cuts may require less cooking time, so adjust accordingly to avoid overcooking.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus Juices?
If you can’t find fresh orange or lime juice, bottled juices can be used, but ensure they are 100% pure juice without added sugars. However, fresh juice yields the best flavor, so consider using zest from the fruits as a supplement if you have them on hand.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork?
Store leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at a low temperature or microwave it gently until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the pork a day or two in advance, just keep it in the fridge. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it will absorb. Cook the pork on the day you plan to serve it for the best results!
