Juicy Cuban Mojo Pork Roast
This is the Mojo Marinated Roast Pork recipe. The flavors of the marinade are classic Cuban, citrusy and strong. It infuses into the pork incredibly well. I made this with boneless pork shoulder because I intended to use leftovers to make Cubanos (Cuban sandwiches), and boneless is easier to slice. But it can also be made with bone-in pork (add 0.5kg/1lb to the pork weight). I roast this covered at a lower temperature for longer than in the original recipe because the roast is juicier and more foolproof. But I've provided the original roasting directions in the notes. This roast is extremely tender and suited to carving rather than pulling apart.
This is the Mojo Marinated Roast Pork recipe. The flavors of the marinade are classic Cuban, citrusy and strong. It infuses into the pork incredibly well. I made this with boneless pork shoulder because I intended to use leftovers to make Cubanos (Cuban sandwiches), and boneless is easier to slice. But it can also be made with bone-in pork (add 0.5kg/1lb to the pork weight). I roast this covered at a lower temperature for longer than in the original recipe because the roast is juicier and more foolproof. But I've provided the original roasting directions in the notes. This roast is extremely tender and suited to carving rather than pulling apart.
- salt and pepper
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 8 cloves
- 1 cup cilantro / coriander (lightly packed)
- 3/4 cup orange juice (fresh)
- 1/4 cup mint leaves (lightly packed)
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano leaves (packed (or 1/2 tbsp dried oregano))
- 4 lb / 2 kg pork shoulder (skinless and boneless)
- Carbohydrate 6.2207695897836 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 9.94479604995969 g
- Fiber 0.78200833892356 g
- Protein 0.597561250466342 g
- Saturated Fat 1.37105541781211 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -10 (296g)
- Sodium 12.0331132829949 mg
- Sugar 5.43876125086005 g
- Trans Fat 0.33543310443854 g
- Calories 111 calories
Step-by-step
- Combine Marinade ingredients in a food processor and blend until the herbs and garlic are finely chopped. Alternatively, you can finely chop/mince the garlic and herbs then mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Place in a large ziplock bag with the pork. Place in the fridge overnight (in a bowl, just to be safe).
- Remove the pork from the Marinade and bring to room temperature. Reserve the Marinade.
- Preheat oven to 170C/325F.
- Place the pork on a rack in a roasting dish (or on a couple of onions, to elevate the pork).
- Cover with a lid or double layer of foil, slightly tented so it is not pressed tightly against the pork.
- Place in the oven and bake for 2 hrs 30 minutes.
- Then remove the foil and return to the oven for a further 30 minutes to brown.
- Remove from the oven and place on a plate, loosely covered with foil.
- Rest for 20 minutes before serving with the Mojo Sauce on the side. I decorated mine with pan-fried slices of oranges and extra cilantro/coriander leaves.
Juicy Cuban Mojo Pork Roast: A Culinary Adventure
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. But sometimes, the simplest recipes offer the most rewarding results. This Juicy Cuban Mojo Pork Roast, inspired by the movie "Chef," is one of those recipes. It's a flavour bomb, a culinary adventure that transports you to the sun-drenched streets of Cuba without stepping foot on a plane. The beautiful thing about this roast is its versatility; it's perfect for a weekend dinner, a casual weeknight meal, or even a centerpiece for a small gathering. The leftovers? Oh, the possibilities are endless!
The aroma alone is worth the effort – a fragrant blend of citrus, herbs, and spices that fills your kitchen with a warmth and vibrancy that’s utterly intoxicating. The succulent pork, marinated overnight in a symphony of flavors, melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of dish that evokes memories of family gatherings, lazy Sundays, and the simple joy of sharing good food with loved ones. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. While it may seem daunting at first glance, the process is surprisingly straightforward. The most time-consuming part is the marinating process, which conveniently happens overnight, allowing you to relax and let the magic happen while you sleep.
Beyond the Plate: A Culinary Journey
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's an experience. The rich history of Cuban cuisine, the vibrant flavors, and the ease of preparation all contribute to a culinary journey that can be shared with your family and friends. Imagine the smiles around the table as you carve into this tender, juicy roast, the aroma filling the air with happiness. It's these moments, these connections around a shared meal, that make cooking so incredibly rewarding. And the best part? The leftovers are even better the next day! I often use them to create delicious Cuban sandwiches, a perfect lunch or a quick and easy dinner solution for a busy weeknight.
The Magic of Leftovers: Cubanos and Beyond
Don’t underestimate the power of leftovers. The tender pork from this roast is perfectly suited for a variety of dishes. As mentioned earlier, Cubanos are a fantastic option, but you can also use the pork in tacos, salads, or even as a filling for empanadas. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination! Consider slicing the pork thinly and adding it to a vibrant salad with fresh vegetables, a zesty vinaigrette, and perhaps some crumbled cotija cheese. The combination of the rich, savory pork with the fresh, crisp vegetables is a delight. Alternatively, you could shred the pork and use it as a filling for tacos, adding your favorite toppings and sauces.
A Taste of Cuba in Your Kitchen: More Than Just a Recipe
Cooking is more than just preparing food; it’s about creating memories, sharing experiences, and connecting with people. This Juicy Cuban Mojo Pork Roast is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to embark on a culinary adventure, a chance to savor the vibrant flavors of Cuba in the comfort of your own kitchen. It's a dish that reflects the joy of cooking and the warmth of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. So, gather your family and friends, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with unforgettable memories. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and embrace the joy of creating something truly special.
Beyond the Recipe: A Personal Touch
I find that adding a personal touch to any recipe elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary. Feel free to experiment with the marinade – add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat, or substitute different citrus fruits for a unique twist. Don't be afraid to adjust the cooking time depending on your oven and the size of your pork shoulder. The beauty of cooking is its flexibility; it's about adapting and creating something that is uniquely yours.
