Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork

Try this Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork recipe, or contribute your own.

Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork

Try this Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork recipe, or contribute your own.

  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Served Person: 6
  • Carbohydrate 4.23027167016592 g
  • Cholesterol 0 mg
  • Fat 0.209144166710548 g
  • Fiber 0.344666668194623 g
  • Protein 0.529928333536876 g
  • Saturated Fat 0.0182350000051887 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (31g)
  • Sodium 28.130500000578 mg
  • Sugar 3.8856050019713 g
  • Trans Fat 0.0459740833545032 g
  • Calories 18 calories

Step-by-step

  • If you have a food processor: Add the orange juice, cilantro leaves, mint leaves, and smashed (not minced) garlic cloves, and pulse until everything is finely chopped. Add this mixture to a ziplock bag, along with the rest of the oil, zest, lime juice, oregano, and cumin.
  • If you don't have a food processor: In a large ziplock bag, combine olive oil, orange zest, orange juice, lime juice, chopped cilantro, chopped mint, minced garlic, oregano, and cumin. Shake it around a bit to mix it up, then add the pork shoulder.
  • Place the zipped up bag in a baking dish, and put it in the fridge overnight, or several hours at least.
  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Place a wire rack (I used a cooking rack) over a rimmed baking sheet.
  • Place the pork on the rack and discard the marinade. Salt and pepper the pork well.
  • Roast the pork for 30 minutes. It should be lightly browned.
  • Turn the oven down to 375 degrees F. Roast for another 1 hour and 20-30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 160.
  • Transfer to a cutting board, cover with aluminum foil and let rest at least 20 minutes.
  • Carve against the grain and serve.
My Cuban Mojo Pork Adventure

A Busy Mom's Guide to Amazing Cuban Mojo Pork

Let me tell you, friends, life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between school runs, work deadlines, and keeping a somewhat clean house (let's be honest, some days it's a valiant effort), finding time for anything beyond the basics feels like a Herculean task. But one thing I refuse to compromise on is delicious, family-friendly meals. That’s where this Cuban Mojo Pork recipe comes in. It's become a staple in our house, a true lifesaver on those chaotic weeknights.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. The preparation is minimal, mostly involving a bit of chopping and mixing (which I usually do while catching up on my favorite podcasts!). The slow-cooking method allows for minimal hands-on time, which is a huge win in my book. I can pop it in the oven, run errands, or tend to the never-ending laundry pile knowing that a magnificent aroma will be filling my kitchen soon. The result? A succulent, flavorful pork shoulder that is as satisfying as it is effortless. My kids devour it, my husband raves about it, and even I, amidst the chaos of motherhood, find a moment of calm satisfaction savoring each tender bite.

What makes this recipe special? It's not just the amazing flavor; it's the convenience. Marinate it the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning before work, and come home to a masterpiece. No more stressful last-minute meal scrambles! The ingredients are readily available, and you likely already have most of them in your pantry. Seriously, this recipe has become my go-to for impressing guests with minimal fuss – they always ask for the recipe, and the best part? I can actually provide it!

I’ve tried different variations, adjusting the spices to my preference, and experimenting with serving suggestions. My personal favorite is serving it with fluffy white rice and black beans – a classic Cuban combo that perfectly complements the rich, citrusy flavors of the mojo. Sometimes I’ll even add a side of roasted vegetables for extra color and nutrition. But honestly, this pork is so delicious on its own, it’s hard to resist just piling it on a plate and digging in.

Beyond the practicality, this recipe has also become a cherished family ritual. The scent of the mojo marinade wafting through the house fills our kitchen with warmth and anticipation. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the simple pleasures of good food and family time. And on those particularly tough days, knowing I have this delicious and easy recipe up my sleeve is a comforting thought indeed. Give it a try; you won't regret it!

Ingredients I use: While the recipe calls for specific ingredients, I find that using high-quality ingredients always enhances the final product. For example, I always reach for a good quality extra virgin olive oil – it makes a noticeable difference in the flavor. And fresh herbs are a must! There’s nothing quite like the vibrant aroma and taste of freshly chopped cilantro and mint.

Tips and Tricks: Don't be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking. If you like things spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic or oregano. The beauty of cooking is experimentation, so don’t hesitate to personalize the recipe to your preferences. Also, make sure to let the pork rest after cooking – this helps to ensure it remains tender and juicy.

So, there you have it, my simple, yet spectacular, Cuban Mojo Pork recipe. It's a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated. It's a recipe that’s embraced by my busy schedule and, more importantly, my family’s rumbling stomachs. Try it, and let me know how it turns out! I can’t wait to hear about your delicious Cuban Mojo adventures.