The moment my spoon hit the bowl of mojo sauce, I was transported to the heart of Cuba. The lively fusion of citrus and garlic burst into my senses, igniting memories of vibrant family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food. Picture this: a slow-roasted pork shoulder, marinated to perfection in that very same sauce, emerging from the oven with a tantalizing aroma that beckons everyone to the table.
This Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork, or Lechon Asado as it’s traditionally known, is more than just a meal—it’s a warm hug on a platter. With simple ingredients transforming into tender, fall-apart meat, this dish is perfect for elevating any occasion, from a cozy Sunday dinner to a festive gathering. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into a recipe that not only celebrates flavors but also brings a piece of Cuban heritage straight to your kitchen.
Why is Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork special?
Irresistible aroma: As it roasts, your kitchen will be filled with the enchanting scents of citrus and garlic, creating an irresistible invitation to family and friends.
Tender perfection: Slow-roasting transforms the pork into incredibly tender, fork-ready bites that melt in your mouth, making every bite a delight.
Easy method: With just a few basic steps, this recipe delivers a complex flavor that feels gourmet without the fuss, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
Family favorite: Drawing from rich Cuban tradition, this dish embodies the warmth of family gatherings, ensuring it will be cherished at your table for years to come.
Ultimate versatility: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, this Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork is guaranteed to impress, inspiring you to serve it alongside traditional sides like white rice and black beans.
Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork Ingredients
For the Pork
• Pork Shoulder (or pork butt) – Chosen for its ability to become tender and juicy during roasting; best for this classic dish.
For the Mojo Marinade
• Cumin Powder – Infuses the pork with warm, earthy goodness; essential in Cuban cuisine.
• Coriander Powder – Adds a delicate, citrusy note to enhance the overall flavors.
• Salt – Important for bringing out the natural flavors; adjust according to taste.
• Fresh Oregano Leaves – Imparts a fresh, herbal essence; dried oregano can be used if fresh isn’t available (reduce the quantity).
For the Mojo Sauce
• Sour Orange Juice – The key ingredient for authentic mojo; if unavailable, substitute with a mixture of fresh orange and lime juice.
• Garlic – Provides robust flavor and aromatic depth; freshly minced is always best.
• Avocado Oil – Adds richness to the marinade; feel free to use olive oil as a substitute if needed.
• Optional Cilantro and Peppers – For those who enjoy an extra kick; personalize your mojo sauce to taste!
This Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork is bound to become a treasured recipe in your home—don’t forget to gather the ingredients and make some special memories!
How to Make Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork
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Prepare the Pork: Start by removing the rind from the pork shoulder, then place it in a spacious ceramic baking dish, ready to soak in those vibrant flavors.
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Marinate Generously: Coat the pork shoulder thoroughly with 1.5 cups of mojo marinade, cumin, coriander, and salt. Allow it to marinate in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours, but overnight is preferable for maximum flavor.
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Bring to Room Temperature: Before roasting, let the marinated pork sit out to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking throughout the meat.
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Roast the Pork: Preheat your oven to 295°F. Place the pork into a Dutch oven, cover it with a lid, and roast for 3-4 hours until it becomes tender.
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Baste for Flavor: After the initial roasting time, uncover the pork, baste it with its own drippings, and increase the oven temperature to 350°F. Continue roasting for another 1-2 hours, allowing for a beautiful caramelized exterior.
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Check for Doneness: Ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 180°F, checking that it’s fork-tender. For an extra crispy finish, broil it for a couple of minutes if desired.
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Finish with Mojo Sauce: Save any drippings, skim off excess fat, and mix them with the remaining mojo sauce. Serve this over the pulled pork for a burst of delicious flavor along with your favorite traditional sides.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork
- Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, marinate your pork overnight. This allows the mojo sauce to deeply penetrate, resulting in incredible taste.
- Avoid Oven Peeking: Resist the urge to open the oven door frequently while roasting. Each peek releases heat, prolonging cooking time and affecting tenderness.
- Internal Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches 180°F. This is crucial for achieving that fork-tender texture in your Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork.
- Dutch Oven Benefits: If available, always use a Dutch oven for roasting. It retains heat better and gives more even cooking compared to a regular baking dish.
- Use Drippings Wisely: Don’t forget to save the drippings. Mixing them with the remaining mojo sauce intensifies the flavor and adds moisture when serving.
Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork Variations
Feel free to put your unique spin on this recipe and create your own delicious twist!
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Citrus Swap: Use a mix of fresh orange and lime juices if sour oranges aren’t available, ensuring that vibrant tang shines through.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or parsley to the marinade for a unique flavor boost and a delightful herbal aroma.
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Heat Up: Mix in a sliced serrano or jalapeño to the mojo sauce for an exciting kick that balances beautifully with the citrus.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the marinade to give your pork an extra layer of flavor and a subtle smokiness.
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Sweet Twist: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a hint of sweetness that complements the savory citrus.
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Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic in the marinade—more garlic means more flavor, perfect for those who crave that rich, garlicky essence.
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Creamy Addition: For a rich twist, top the final dish with a dollop of avocado crema or sour cream mixed with lime juice.
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Crispy Crust: Broil the pork for an additional few minutes at the end for a crunchy, caramelized crust that adds texture and mouthwatering flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork
Fridge: Store your Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain its tender texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork in a sealed, freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. This preserves its deliciousness for future meals.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven covered with foil until warmed through, ensuring the meat remains juicy.
Leftovers: Get creative with leftovers! Use them in tacos, sandwiches, or salads for quick, delicious meals throughout the week.
Make Ahead Options
Planning ahead with this Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork (Lechon Asado) not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors! You can marinate the pork shoulder up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the mojo sauce to penetrate deeply for maximum taste. Just simply coat the pork with the marinade, cover it, and refrigerate. Additionally, you can pre-chop any accompaniments, such as onions and cilantro, and store them in the fridge for an easy assembly when you’re ready to serve. On the day of serving, just bring the pork to room temperature before roasting and follow the regular cooking steps to savor a dish that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh. Enjoy the convenience of prepping ahead while still serving a restaurant-quality meal!
What to Serve with Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that offer harmony and balance to your flavorful pork.
- White Rice: A classic pairing, fluffy rice soaks up the luscious mojo sauce, creating a comforting base for each bite.
- Black Beans: Rich in flavor and protein, these beans add creaminess and add a satisfying contrast to the pork’s tenderness.
- Boiled Yuca: The perfect starchy side, yuca has a mild taste and a chewy texture that complements the zesty flavors of the pork beautifully.
- Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy, this fresh salsa provides a delightful contrast to the savory pork, enhancing the overall culinary experience.
- Tostones (Fried Plantains): Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, tostones offer a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with the juicy meat.
Serve alongside a refreshing Cuban Mojito to elevate your dining experience. This cocktail’s minty and citrusy notes mirror the vibrant mojo sauce, making it a perfect drink choice!
Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork Recipe FAQs
What type of pork should I use for Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork?
I always recommend using pork shoulder or pork butt for this recipe. These cuts are well-marbled, which ensures they become tender and juicy when slow-roasted, embodying the true essence of Lechon Asado.
How should I store leftovers from my Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork?
For best results, let the pork cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just remember to keep it sealed to lock in that delicious flavor!
Can I freeze the Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork?
Absolutely! You can freeze your leftover pork in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply move it to the refrigerator for a day before reheating.
What are some tips for reheating the pork without drying it out?
When reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the pork in a dish and cover it with foil to retain moisture. Heat in the oven until warmed through—this method helps keep the meat juicy and delicious!
Is there a special way to check if the pork is done cooking?
Yes, using a meat thermometer is key! You’ll want the internal temperature to reach 180°F for that perfect fork-tender texture. A few minutes under the broiler at the end can give you a beautiful golden color too!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
While this recipe is rich and satisfying, if you have dietary restrictions, you may want to modify the oil used in the marinade—substituting with a healthier option can reduce calories and fats. Plus, be cautious if cooking for any individuals with garlic allergies!
Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork Perfection
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Pork: Start by removing the rind from the pork shoulder, then place it in a spacious ceramic baking dish, ready to soak in those vibrant flavors.
- Marinate Generously: Coat the pork shoulder with mojo marinade, cumin, coriander, and salt. Marinate in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Let the marinated pork sit out for about 30 minutes before roasting for even cooking.
- Roast the Pork: Preheat the oven to 295°F. Place the pork in a Dutch oven, cover with a lid, and roast for 3-4 hours until tender.
- Baste for Flavor: Uncover the pork, baste with drippings, and increase temperature to 350°F. Roast for another 1-2 hours until caramelized.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 180°F, checking for fork-tender texture.
- Finish with Mojo Sauce: Save drippings, skim off fat, and mix with remaining mojo sauce. Serve over pulled pork.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor.