There’s something truly enchanting about the aroma of citrus and garlic filling your kitchen, especially when it heralds the arrival of a soul-warming dish like Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork (Lechon Asado). I first encountered this culinary delight during a vibrant family gathering, where the scent wafted through the air and drew everyone to the dining table. This recipe takes an unassuming pork shoulder and elevates it into a succulent, tender centerpiece that promises to impress at any gathering.
What I love most about this dish is its ability to evoke the rich essence of Cuban cuisine with minimal fuss. The marinade—a harmonious blend of citrusy sour oranges and sharp garlic—infuses the meat with irresistible flavors, transforming a simple pork roast into a feast. Whether it’s a Sunday family dinner or a festive celebration, this Mojo Pork is bound to be the star of the show. So grab your ingredients and let’s dive into the velvety goodness that only roasting can provide!
Why is Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork a Must-Try?
Irresistible aroma: The moment you pop this pork into the oven, your kitchen will be enveloped in a mouthwatering fusion of citrus and garlic, setting the stage for the feast to come.
Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that’s easy to make yet delivers gourmet-level flavors.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family meal, this succulent pork is sure to wow your guests and leave them asking for seconds.
Versatile side dishes: Perfectly pairs with classic sides like black beans and rice, or keeps it exciting with boiled yuca and ripe fried plantains.
Cultural tap: Experience a beloved Cuban dish without needing a culinary degree—just an eagerness to enjoy good food! Dive into this culinary adventure and discover why you’ll want to make this again and again.
Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork Ingredients
For the Pork
- Pork Shoulder (4 lbs) – This cut is perfect for roasting, delivering a juicy and tender result when cooked low and slow.
For the Marinade
- Cumin Powder (1 tbsp) – Adds a warm, earthy flavor profile that is essential in Cuban cuisine.
- Coriander Powder (1 tsp) – Provides a bright, lemony note that beautifully complements the cumin.
- Salt (1 tsp or to taste) – Vital for seasoning, it enhances the natural flavors of the pork.
- Fresh Oregano Leaves (1 tsp) – Contributes a fresh herbaceous quality; substitute with dried oregano if needed.
- Mojo Marinade (2 cups) – This citrusy and garlicky sauce is the star of the show, making your Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork burst with flavor. If sour oranges are unavailable, mix the juice of 4 oranges and 3 limes for a similar zest.
With this ingredient list, you’re ready to embark on the delicious journey of crafting a vibrant Cuban dish that captures the essence of family gatherings and culinary tradition! Enjoy the colorful flavors that await.
How to Make Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork
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Prepare Pork: Start by removing the rind from your 4 lbs pork shoulder. This step is essential for crispy skin and allows the marinade to penetrate the meat deeply for maximum flavor.
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Marinate Pork: In a ceramic dish, merge the pork with 1.5 cups of mojo marinade, cumin, and coriander. Ensure the pork is well-coated, then cover it and let it marinate for at least 1-2 hours or, for best results, overnight in the refrigerator.
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Preheat Oven: Before you roast, bring your marinated pork to room temperature. This typically takes about 30 minutes and ensures even cooking, leading to a more succulent roast.
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Roast in Dutch Oven: Preheat your oven to 295°F (145°C). Place the pork in a Dutch oven, cover it, and roast for 3-4 hours. The meat should smell heavenly and begin to soften during this time.
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Increase Temperature: After roasting, remove the lid and baste the pork with its drippings. Raise the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting for an additional 1-2 hours. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 180°F (82°C) or until it’s fork-tender.
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Finish: Once done, save the drippings. Remove excess fat, and mix the flavorful drippings with any leftover mojo sauce to drizzle over the pulled pork when serving.
Optional: Serve with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork (Lechon Asado) is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor home-cooked goodness with minimal stress! You can marinate the pork shoulder up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavors as it sits in the mojo marinade. Simply combine the pork with the marinade, cumin, and coriander, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can prepare the mojo marinade up to 3 days ahead, storing it in the refrigerator for maximum freshness. When you’re ready to serve, take the marinated pork out, allow it to reach room temperature, and follow the roasting instructions for delicious, fork-tender results that will steal the spotlight at any meal!
What to Serve with Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the bold flavors of this Cuban classic.
- White Rice: This staple is the ideal base, allowing the rich mojo sauce to shine without competing for attention. A fluffy bed of rice absorbs all the juicy goodness.
- Black Beans: Their earthy depth adds a lovely contrast to the citrusy pork while providing a hearty protein boost. Together, they create a classic Cuban meal that warms the heart.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty side uplifts the dish with fresh herbs and citrus, tying in beautifully with the marinade’s flavors. The bright notes will awaken your taste buds!
- Boiled Yuca: Drizzled with additional mojo sauce, boiled yuca offers a creamy, yet subtly nutty flavor that pairs deliciously with pork. It’s a comfort food dream!
- Fried Plantains (Maduros): These sweet, caramelized treats bring a pleasing contrast to the savory pork and are perfect for balancing your plate. Their warmth will transport you straight to a Cuban kitchen!
- Tropical Salad: A fresh mix of mango, avocado, and lime will add bright, refreshing notes to your meal. This vibrant salad celebrates the essence of Latin flavors and adds texture to your dining table.
- Refreshing Mojito: For drinks, why not serve up some Mojitos? The minty freshness perfectly complements each bite, making for a refreshing addition to your feast while echoing the Cuban roots of the dish.
- Tres Leches Cake: Finish on a sweet note with a slice of this lush, milky dessert. Its lightness and sweetness serve as the perfect end to your flavorful journey!
Expert Tips for Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork
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Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, marinate the pork overnight, allowing the mojo sauce to penetrate deeply into the meat.
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Baste Regularly: Baste the pork every 90 minutes during roasting. This keeps the meat moist and helps achieve that beautiful, crispy crust.
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Avoid Heat Loss: When roasting, avoid opening the oven frequently. Each time you open the door, heat escapes, which can affect cooking time and overall tenderness.
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Room Temperature: Always bring the marinated pork to room temperature before cooking. This ensures even heat distribution throughout the roast.
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Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the pork reaches an internal temperature of 180°F for perfect tenderness.
With these expert tips, your Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork is sure to be a showstopper!
Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork Variations
Feel free to explore these variations and make this tasty recipe your own!
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Different Cuts: Try using pork butt or tenderloin for a unique take on the dish. Each cut brings its own texture and flavor to the table.
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Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick. This fiery flavor enhances the mojo without overpowering the delicious citrus notes.
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Herb Enhancement: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley in the marinade for an aromatic twist. These herbs can create a refreshing balance with the citrusy flavors.
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Citrus Blend: Substitute with a mixture of blood oranges and grapefruit for a different citrusy flavor profile. The sweetness of blood oranges combined with the tartness of grapefruit will elevate your mojo pork significantly.
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Garlic Variation: For a stronger garlic presence, add roasted garlic cloves to the marinade. This enhances both the aroma and depth of flavor, making every bite irresistible.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the marinade for a lovely smoky undertone. It adds depth and makes the dish even more memorable.
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Sweet Addition: A tablespoon of brown sugar can caramelize beautifully in the oven, giving a sweet crust that contrasts with the tangy marinade. It’s a delightful surprise when served!
With these fun variations, you can make your Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork uniquely yours, charming your family and friends time and again! Enjoy the exploration of flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork
- Fridge: Store leftover mojo pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and ensures moisture retention.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to separate it into portions for easy use later.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, keeping it juicy.
- Preparation Tips: Leftover mojo pork tastes delightful in Cuban sandwiches, tacos, or burritos, giving you multiple delicious meal options from a single recipe!
Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork Recipe FAQs
How can I select the best pork shoulder for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for a pork shoulder with a good amount of marbling and a nice layer of fat, which will help keep the meat juicy. The shoulder should feel firm but not too hard, indicating a fresh cut. Aim for a pork shoulder weighing around 4 pounds for this recipe.
How should I store leftovers from the Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork?
Leftover mojo pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool before placing it in the fridge, as this will help prevent moisture loss. It’s perfect for reheating for quick meals!
Can I freeze Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork?
Very! To freeze your leftover pork, place it in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrap it in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep it fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
I accidentally marinated the pork for too long—will it taste different?
Not to worry! While marinating for too long (more than 24 hours) can sometimes make the meat overly tender or mushy, the flavor will likely be just as vibrant. If you’re ever in doubt, a simple fix is to pat the meat dry before cooking, which may help with any excess moisture and still yield a delicious result.
Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten-free dietary needs?
Absolutely! The Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork is naturally gluten-free, as long as you ensure that your marinade ingredients are also gluten-free. Always check for hidden sources of gluten in any pre-made products you may use, like sauces or spice blends.
What are some ideal side dishes to serve with this pork?
The more the merrier! This mojo pork pairs beautifully with classic sides such as white rice, black beans, or roasted yuca. You can also elevate your meal with ripe fried plantains or a refreshing salad for a burst of freshness alongside the rich, flavorful pork.
Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Pork: Start by removing the rind from your pork shoulder. This step is essential for crispy skin and allows the marinade to penetrate the meat deeply for maximum flavor.
- Marinate Pork: Merge the pork with the mojo marinade, cumin, and coriander. Ensure the pork is well-coated, then cover it and let it marinate for at least 1-2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat Oven: Bring your marinated pork to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Roast in Dutch Oven: Preheat your oven to 295°F (145°C). Place the pork in a Dutch oven, cover it, and roast for 3-4 hours.
- Increase Temperature: Remove the lid, baste the pork with its drippings, increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C), and continue roasting for an additional 1-2 hours.
- Finish: Save the drippings, remove excess fat, and mix with any leftover mojo sauce to drizzle over the pulled pork when serving.