This Easy Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork is bursting with flavor from garlic, citrus, and spices. It’s juicy, tender, and perfect for a crowd or when you need a tasty meal!
As it roasts, your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll find it hard to resist taking little bites. I love serving it with rice and beans, making it a colorful feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow roasting thanks to its marbled fat, which adds flavor and moisture. If you can’t find pork shoulder, try using pork loin, but keep in mind it may dry out faster.
Orange Juice: Fresh orange juice gives the dish its bright flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice works, but fresh is always better. You can also use grapefruit juice for a different twist!
Garlic: Minced garlic is essential for that rich flavor. Feel free to add more if you love garlic, or use garlic powder if you’re low on fresh cloves. Just remember, 1 clove of garlic = 1/8 teaspoon of powder.
Olive Oil: This helps to tenderize the meat and adds a nice richness. Avocado oil is a good substitute if you’re looking for a high smoke point oil, while coconut oil adds a fun flavor twist.
How Do I Marinate the Pork for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key to infusing the pork with that delicious mojo flavor. The goal is to let it soak up all the juices and spices.
- Combine your marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Place the pork shoulder in a pan, and pour the marinade over, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but for best results, cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Remember to turn the pork occasionally to ensure an even soak!
This extra time makes a world of difference in flavor, resulting in a juicy and tasty dish that your family will love!
Easy Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt), bone-in or boneless
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 8 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and involves about 4 hours of cooking time (including marinating). If you can, marinate the pork overnight in the fridge for more flavor. Overall, plan for about 4 hours and 15 minutes of your time, including cooking and resting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 325°F (160°C). This low and slow cooking will help keep your pork tender and juicy.
2. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the fresh orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mojo will be the star of the dish!
3. Marinate the Pork:
Place the pork shoulder in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s coated all around. Cover the pan and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or, for the best flavor, overnight in the refrigerator.
4. Roast the Pork:
Once marinated, cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and roast in the preheated oven for 3 to 4 hours. The pork should be very tender and easily shred with a fork when it’s done.
5. Crisp Up the Outside:
After the initial roast, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Roast uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will give the pork a delicious crisp on the outside.
6. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the pork out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute so your pork stays moist when you shred or slice it.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve the pork with lime wedges on the side. It pairs wonderfully with rice, black beans, or in a sandwich!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Cuban Mojo Pork!
FAQs for Easy Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its tenderness, you can use pork loin or a pork roast. Just be mindful that leaner cuts may dry out more quickly, so keep an eye on cooking time.
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork?
For the best flavor, marinate the pork for at least 1 hour. If you have the time, letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator brings out even more delicious mojo flavors!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave. You can add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist!
Can I Freeze the Marinated Pork?
Yes! You can freeze the marinated pork for up to 3 months. Just place the marinated pork in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
