There’s something truly captivating about the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine, and my favorite dish to transport me straight to the heart of the island is none other than Cuban Mojo Pork. The moment I first tasted this tantalizing creation, I was struck by the zesty harmony of citrus, garlic, and aromatic herbs—an explosion of flavor that has graced my table time and time again.
Inspired by a family gathering, where the tender, marinated pork stole the show, I knew I had to recreate this masterpiece at home. Picture it: a slow-cooked pork shoulder bathed in a scintillating marinade of orange, lemon, and lime juices, complemented by fragrant garlic and spices. The aroma alone is enough to make my mouth water—a perfect solution for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.
The beauty of this dish lies not just in its mouthwatering flavor, but also in its effortless preparation. Allow me to guide you through this culinary adventure, where just a few simple ingredients will transform your weeknight meals and impress your gatherings. Trust me, once you try this Cuban Mojo Pork, you’ll never want to look at takeout again!
Why is Cuban Mojo Pork so irresistible?
Vibrant Flavors: The zing of citrus mixed with garlic creates an unmatched taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Easy Prep: Just marinate and let your slow cooker do the work—perfect for busy days!
Endless Versatility: Serve it with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a meal that fits any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress family and friends with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Time-Saving Solution: With minimal active cooking time, this recipe allows you to enjoy your evening while the flavors meld beautifully.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or revamping your weekly meals, this Cuban Mojo Pork will surely become your favorite go-to dish!
Cuban Mojo Pork Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create that delicious Cuban Mojo Pork!
For the Marinade
- Olive oil – Adds richness and helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Orange juice – Provides a sweet citrus punch perfect for balancing the savory elements.
- Lime juice – Adds a refreshing tartness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Lemon juice – Brings brightness and complexity to the marinade.
- Garlic – Elevates the dish with aromatic goodness; don’t skimp on the minced cloves!
- Dried oregano – Works as a fantastic herb to complement the citrus flavors.
- Kosher salt – Enhances natural flavors while helping to tenderize the meat.
- Black pepper – Adds a subtle heat that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Medium onion – Sweetens and deepens the marinade; consider a yellow onion for richness.
- Cilantro – Offers a fresh, herbal finish that brightens every bite!
For the Pork
- Pork shoulder – Combines tenderness and flavor; the ideal choice for this slow-cooked dish.
- Pork loin – Opt for this if you’re looking for a leaner, yet still flavorful, alternative.
How to Make Cuban Mojo Pork
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Combine Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, chopped onion, and cilantro. This aromatic blend is the key to your flavorful mojo!
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Prepare Pork: Using a sharp knife, make several slits in the pork shoulder. This will help the marinade penetrate deeply. Pour the marinade over the pork completely, making sure it’s well coated.
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Marinate: Cover the pork with plastic wrap or place it in a sealed container. Let it marinate in the fridge for 4-6 hours, or for the best flavor, overnight is ideal.
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Cook: Transfer the marinated pork into your slow cooker. Set it to high for 5-6 hours or low for 8 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the pork is fork-tender and shreds easily.
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Crisp (Optional): For an added crunch, preheat your oven to 400°F. After slow cooking, place the pork in a baking dish and roast for 15-20 minutes until the exterior is golden brown and crispy.
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Shred and Serve: With two forks, shred the pork into tender bits. Serve it warm with the delicious cooking juices or whip up a quick mojo sauce with cornstarch for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional: Top with additional cilantro before serving for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cuban Mojo Pork?
Creating the perfect meal around this zesty delight opens a world of flavorful possibilities.
- Fluffy Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs the savory mojo juices, enhancing each bite with comforting fluffiness.
- Black Beans: Their earthy flavor complements the bright citrus notes beautifully, making for a nutritious side.
- Tropical Fruit Salsa: A fresh combination of mango, pineapple, and lime offers a vibrant contrast that elevates the pork’s zesty notes.
For a well-rounded meal, consider adding a refreshing side salad—perhaps with mixed greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette. And don’t forget a glass of chilled Sangria or a light mojito to complete your dining experience with a festive touch!
Make Ahead Options
These Cuban Mojo Pork delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the pork shoulder up to 24 hours in advance, giving time for those vibrant flavors to meld beautifully. Simply combine the marinade ingredients and coat the pork, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, transfer the marinated pork to your slow cooker straight from the fridge and set it to high for 5-6 hours or low for 8 hours. For the finishing touch, pop it in the oven for a crispy exterior once it’s fork-tender. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal while saving precious time on busy weeknights!
Cuban Mojo Pork Variations
Feel free to add your unique twist to this delectable Cuban Mojo Pork—there are so many delicious options to explore!
- Pineapple Infusion: Add 1 cup of crushed pineapple to the marinade for a sweet, tropical twist that complements the citrus.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the marinade for a burst of heat that elevates the flavor profile.
- Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary alongside the oregano to add a fragrant depth to the dish.
- Citrus Swap: Substitute grapefruit juice for lime or lemon juice for an interesting, tangy twist that surprises the palate.
- Soy Sauce: For an umami kick, combine 1-2 tablespoons of soy sauce with the marinade for added depth and savoriness.
- Vegan Option: Replace pork with jackfruit chunks for a plant-based version that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- Smoky Flavor: Sprinkle smoked paprika in the marinade for a rich, smoky undertone that takes the flavor to a whole new level.
- Coconut Milk: Swap out half of the olive oil with coconut milk, adding a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness to the marinade.
Let your creativity shine as you customize this Cuban Mojo Pork recipe!
Expert Tips for Cuban Mojo Pork
• Marinate Longer: Allow the pork to marinate overnight for maximum flavor infusion—your taste buds will thank you!
• Cut Wisely: Making deep slits in the pork shoulder ensures the marinade seeps in effectively, avoiding dry patches.
• Crockpot Choices: Cooking on low is recommended for tender meat; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully without rushing.
• Crisp It Up: For extra flavor and texture, broil the slow-cooked pork in the oven briefly—watch it closely to avoid burning!
• Serve Smart: Pair your Cuban Mojo Pork with vibrant sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad to create a balanced meal.
By following these tips, your Cuban Mojo Pork will be a hit at any gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Cuban Mojo Pork
Fridge: Store leftover Cuban Mojo Pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy the rich flavors that will meld even more in the fridge!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze shredded pork in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: To thaw, transfer the pork to the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave when ready to enjoy again.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. A splash of orange juice can revive the flavors beautifully!
Cuban Mojo Pork Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pork for Cuban Mojo Pork?
Absolutely! For the best results, select a pork shoulder, which is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling that keeps the meat juicy. If you prefer a leaner option, a pork loin is a great alternative; just keep in mind it may be a bit less tender.
How should I store leftovers of Cuban Mojo Pork?
Store your leftover Cuban Mojo Pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the delicious flavors to meld even more, making each bite just as tasty as the first.
Can I freeze Cuban Mojo Pork?
Yes, you can! I highly recommend freezing shredded Cuban Mojo Pork in freezer-safe bags. Just make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer to the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
What’s the best way to reheat Cuban Mojo Pork?
When reheating, you can use either a microwave or stovetop. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of orange juice while warming it up. This will help bring the juicy flavor back to life!
Can I use different citrus juices for the marinade?
Certainly! While the original recipe calls for orange, lime, and lemon juices, feel free to experiment with grapefruit or tangerine juices for a twist. Just remember to balance the flavors; too much tartness can overpower the dish.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If cooking for guests with dietary restrictions, be cautious with seasoning, as the recipe includes kosher salt and garlic. Additionally, be aware of any allergies to citrus fruits. Always check for specific dietary preferences if serving this Cuban Mojo Pork to others!
Savor the Flavor: Easy Cuban Mojo Pork Recipe Unleashed
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, chopped onion, and cilantro.
- Using a sharp knife, make several slits in the pork shoulder. Pour the marinade over the pork completely, making sure it’s well coated.
- Cover the pork with plastic wrap or place it in a sealed container. Let it marinate in the fridge for 4-6 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Transfer the marinated pork into your slow cooker. Set it to high for 5-6 hours or low for 8 hours.
- For an added crunch, preheat your oven to 400°F. After slow cooking, place the pork in a baking dish and roast for 15-20 minutes until the exterior is golden brown and crispy.
- With two forks, shred the pork into tender bits. Serve it warm with the delicious cooking juices or whip up a quick mojo sauce.