This Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is packed with flavor! It uses a zesty mix of garlic, citrus juices, and spices that makes the pork super juicy and tasty.
Making this dish is a breeze! Just marinate the pork, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. I love serving it with rice and beans—it’s a meal everyone enjoys! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: Pork shoulder is ideal for its richness and tenderness, but pork loin works too. If you’re looking for leaner meat, turkey breast can be a good substitute, although it will need less marinating time.
Orange Juice: Fresh orange juice is best for this recipe. If you can’t find it, you can use bottled juice, but go for one with no added sugar or preservatives. I’ve found that blood orange juice adds a nice twist!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for adding brightness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley can work as a substitute. You could also try green onions for a different flavor profile.
Garlic: The recipe calls for minced garlic, which adds wonderful flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work; just use about 1 teaspoon for every clove.
How Do You Ensure the Pork is Juicy and Flavorful?
To get that juicy, flavorful pork, marinating is essential. Let it soak overnight if possible, as this allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. Here are a few tips:
- Using a plastic bag for marinating helps ensure even coating and saves space in the fridge.
- Basting while roasting is vital! Every 15 minutes, brush the pork with the reserved marinade for extra moisture and flavor.
- After roasting, let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute, keeping every bite succulent.
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder or pork loin
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (preferably from sweet oranges)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
For Garnish:
- Orange slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes for preparation and at least 4 hours for marinating. For cooking, you’ll need approximately 45 to 60 minutes. In total, plan for at least 5 to 6 hours to fully enjoy this delicious Cuban dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Mojo Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a bit of heat), and white vinegar. This mixture is your flavorful mojo marinade!
2. Marinating the Pork:
Take your pork shoulder or pork loin and place it in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, making sure it’s well coated on all sides. Seal the bag or cover your dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
3. Cooking the Pork:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and place it in a roasting pan or an ovenproof dish. Don’t forget to reserve the marinade, as you’ll use it later to baste the pork.
4. Roasting:
Roast the pork in the preheated oven for about 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it and baste with the reserved marinade every 15 minutes. Your goal is to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Crispy Finish:
If you like a crispy, caramelized crust, you can turn on the broiler for an additional 3-5 minutes at the end of the cooking time. Just watch it closely to prevent burning!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the pork out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. After resting, slice the pork into servings and garnish with fresh orange slices if you like. Serve alongside your favorite sides, such as rice and beans or plantains.
Enjoy this juicy, flavorful Cuban mojo marinated pork that’s packed with bright citrus and garlic notes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While pork shoulder is recommended for its tenderness, you can substitute it with pork loin or even chicken thighs for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken cooks faster!
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork?
For the best flavor, marinate the pork for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. This gives the meat ample time to absorb all those delicious mojo flavors!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! After marinating, place the pork and the marinade in a slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the meat is tender and easily shreds.
How to Store Leftover Pork?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. It also makes a fantastic filling for tacos or sandwiches!
