This Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is bursting with flavor! It’s made with juicy pork, zesty citrus juices, and aromatic garlic that really brings it to life.
Let’s be real, the marinade is where the magic happens! I love letting that pork soak up all those tasty flavors—it’s like a party in the fridge! 🎉
This dish is super simple; just mix up the marinade, let the pork soak, and roast it. Perfect for dinner, and you’ll impress everyone, even yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This is the star of the dish! I love using pork shoulder for its tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, pork loin can work too, but it may be less juicy.
Orange Juice: Fresh juice is key for a bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh oranges, bottled juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always better. You can also mix in some tangerine juice for a fun twist!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant taste. If you’re not a fan or have allergies, parsley or even green onions can be great substitutes. Just remember, it won’t quite taste the same, but it’ll still be delicious!
Olive Oil: I use extra virgin olive oil for richness in the marinade. If you need a substitute due to allergies, avocado oil works wonderfully too.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork?
Cooking pork perfectly can feel tricky, but it’s all about monitoring the temperature. You want it to be juicy and tender, not dry! Here’s how:
- Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The safe internal temperature is 145°F (63°C).
- Let the pork rest after cooking. This step is crucial! It allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy.
- For grilling, keep an eye on the thickness. Thicker cuts might take a bit longer and need frequent turning for even cooking.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a deliciously juicy pork that’s full of Cuban mojo flavors!
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt, trimmed
- For the Mojo Marinade:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (preferably sweet orange)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pork recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with a marinating time of at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor. If grilling, it takes about 20-30 minutes to cook, while roasting will take about 1.5 to 2 hours. So, plan for a total time of around 5 hours for marinating and cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, dried oregano, ground cumin, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s nicely blended to create a fragrant mojo marinade. This is where the magic begins!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Take your trimmed pork shoulder and place it in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring it gets well-coated all over. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, then pop it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 4 hours—overnight if you can wait! This allows the flavors to really sink in.
3. Get Ready to Cook:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to cook, take the pork out of the marinade. Allow it to sit at room temperature—this helps it cook more evenly. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are.
4. Cook the Pork:
If you’re grilling, place the pork shoulder on the grill, turning occasionally until it’s fully cooked and has a nice char on the outside. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes, but check with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
If you prefer roasting, place the marinated pork in a roasting pan and cook in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade or juices. Again, keep an eye on that internal temperature until it hits 145°F (63°C).
5. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once your delicious pork is cooked, remove it from the grill or oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This step is super important—it helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat. After resting, slice the pork and serve it warm, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro. You can also add lime wedges or orange slices on the side for an extra tropical touch!
Enjoy your flavorful Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is traditional for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use pork loin or even chicken thighs for a lighter option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as they may vary!
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork?
You can marinate the pork for a minimum of 4 hours, but for the best results, aim for 12 to 24 hours. This longer marination time allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat, making it even more delicious!
What Do I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. You can also shred it for tacos or sandwiches!
Can I Freeze the Marinated Pork?
Yes, you can! If you want to prep ahead, place the marinated pork in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking for the best results!
