This Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is packed with flavor! With garlic, citrus, and herbs, it creates a delicious, juicy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
I love how the marinade makes the pork so tasty! Just marinate, roast, and you’ll have a dinner that feels fancy without the fuss. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Loin: The pork shoulder is perfect for this recipe due to its rich fat, making it juicy. However, if you prefer a leaner option, pork tenderloin works well too! Just keep an eye on cooking time, as it cooks faster.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a strong, delicious flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, though fresh is my go-to for its intensity and aroma.
Citrus Juices: Fresh orange juice gives that classic Cuban taste. If bitter orange is hard to find, regular sweet orange juice is fine. Lime juice adds bright acidity—both really elevate the dish!
Olive Oil: This helps to balance the marinade. Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite, but any mild oil works. You could even use avocado oil for a different twist.
Herbs and Spices: Cumin and oregano are essential for that authentic flavor. If you’re out of oregano, dried thyme can be a good substitute. Fresh cilantro and parsley are optional but brighten the dish nicely!
How Do I Marinade the Pork Effectively?
Marinating pork allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, making it juicy and flavorful. Here are some tips to get the best results:
- Use a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish for marinating. This ensures all surfaces of the pork soak in the marinade.
- Make sure to massage the marinade into the pork for maximum flavor absorption.
- Let it marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best, letting those flavors work their magic!
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork loin
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (preferably bitter orange if available)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for prep time, and it needs to marinate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for the best flavor). The cooking time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, plus 10 minutes of resting before slicing. So, plan on a total of about 5 hours to enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mojo Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, fresh orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This flavorful marinade is what gives the pork its signature taste!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Place the pork shoulder or loin in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s nicely coated on all sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight. This marination time allows the flavors to soak into the meat.
3. Preheat and Roast the Pork:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and place it in a roasting pan—don’t forget to reserve that yummy marinade!
4. Cooking Time:
Roast the pork in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). As it cooks, baste the pork occasionally with the reserved marinade to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once done, let the pork rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat even more tender. Garnish with fresh cilantro and parsley for a pop of color and flavor, if you like. Serve it up with rice, black beans, or fried plantains to complete your classic Cuban meal!
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork! It’s sure to be a hit at any table! 🌟
FAQ for Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is traditional for its richness and tenderness, you can also use pork loin or tenderloin. Just keep in mind that thinner cuts like tenderloin will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork?
For optimal flavor, marinate the pork for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best! This allows the garlic and citrus to fully permeate the meat, ensuring a flavorful result.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus?
If you don’t have fresh orange juice, you can use bottled juice, but try to choose one without added sugars or preservatives. For lime juice, store-bought is fine too, but fresh juices provide the best flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it—cool the pork completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating!
