This Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork recipe brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table! The juicy pork is marinated in a zesty mix of garlic, citrus, and spices.
Trust me, the aroma while it cooks is amazing! I love to serve it with rice and beans for a classic meal. It’s a simple way to impress family or friends! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder/Butt: These cuts are perfect for marinating because they’re juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey breast or chicken thighs can work well too, just adjust cooking time as they’re leaner.
Citrus Juices: The fresh orange and lime juices give that zesty mojo flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice can work, but fresh is always better! Grapefruit juice can also add a unique twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for punchy flavor. If you have garlic powder handy, you can use about 1 teaspoon instead, but fresh garlic really enhances the taste.
Cilantro: I love the freshness it adds! If you’re not a fan, parsley is a nice substitute that still brings a fresh flavor.
Spices: Ground cumin and oregano are essential. If you don’t have these, you can try taco seasoning or even Italian herbs as a different take. Just keep the flavors balanced!
How Do I Ensure the Pork Is Tender and Full of Flavor?
Marinating is key for tender and flavorful pork! Aim for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This allows the marinade to really soak in. Don’t skip the resting time after cooking as it helps keep the juices inside the meat.
- Make sure to seal the marinade in an airtight container or a resealable bag, squeezing out as much air as possible.
- When cooking, take the pork out of the fridge 20 minutes before grilling or roasting to let it come to room temperature for even cooking.
- Basting with the reserved marinade while cooking adds an extra layer of moisture and flavor. Just remember not to apply it during the last few minutes to avoid cross-contamination.
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 3 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, trimmed and cut into large chunks
For the Mojo Marinade:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 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, for heat)
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes for preparation and at least 4 hours for marinating, preferably overnight. Cooking will take about 45 minutes to 1 hour if roasting, or just 15-20 minutes if grilling. In total, you’ll need roughly 5 hours to get that delicious pork on your table, with most of that time spent marinating!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Mojo Marinade:
Start by combining the fresh orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), white vinegar, orange zest, and finely chopped onion (if using) in a large mixing bowl. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. This vibrant mixture is your mojo marinade!
2. Marinating the Pork:
Next, take the pork chunks and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, making sure all the pieces are coated nicely. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight will give you the best flavor!
3. Preparing to Cook:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat, about 375-400°F (190-200°C). This ensures you get a great sear on the pork!
4. Cooking the Pork:
Take the marinated pork out of the refrigerator. Let any excess marinade drip off, but make sure to save the marinade for basting later. Grill the pork for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning until you get a nice char and caramelization. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you prefer roasting, lay the pork on a lined baking sheet and cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, turning halfway through for even cooking.
5. Basting for Extra Flavor:
While your pork is cooking, baste it occasionally with the reserved marinade to keep it juicy and packed with flavor. Just remember not to baste during the final minutes of cooking to avoid any contamination!
6. Resting and Slicing:
Once the pork is done, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
7. Serving:
Slice the pork into thin pieces and enjoy it with your choice of sides, like rice, black beans, fried plantains, or anything Cuban-inspired! To finish it off, garnish with fresh cilantro or a wedge of lime for a zesty touch.
Now dig in and savor the wonderful, vibrant, and savory flavors of this Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or pork butt are ideal for their flavor and tenderness, you can also use pork loin or even chicken thighs for a leaner option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as leaner cuts cook faster.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork?
You can marinate the pork for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor. If you’re short on time, even 4 hours will work, but overnight is ideal to ensure the meat is thoroughly infused with all those delicious mojo flavors!
What Should I Serve with Mojo Pork?
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides like rice and black beans, fried plantains, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with tortillas for delicious tacos or sliders!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Feel free to enjoy this flavorful dish and share it with family and friends!
