This Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is packed with zesty flavors from garlic, citrus, and spices. It’s a simple way to bring a taste of Cuba to your dinner table!
Trust me, the aroma while it cooks is just magical! I love serving it with rice and beans for a warm and hearty meal. Perfect for impressing friends or just yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: I recommend using pork shoulder for its juiciness, but pork loin is leaner and can work too. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken thigh marinated in the same mojo would also be delicious!
Orange Juice: Fresh is best, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled juice can do. For a fun twist, try using grapefruit juice instead; it adds a unique flavor.
Lime Juice: Fresh squeezed lime juice enhances the recipe. A different citrus like lemon could replace it if lime isn’t available.
Herbs: Cilantro is traditional, but parsley gives a milder taste. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, basil could be an intriguing substitute.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Turns Out Juicy and Flavorful?
The key is in marinating! Moisten the pork with a spice marinade for hours or overnight for maximum flavor absorption. When grilling or roasting, make sure to let the pork rest after cooking.
- Cook until it reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfect tenderness.
- Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes helps redistribute the juices.
- Don’t skip brushing with reserved marinade as it keeps the pork moist and flavorful.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delicious Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork that’s sure to impress!
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds pork shoulder or pork loin
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (or parsley if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active preparation time, but don’t forget to let it marinate! Plan for at least 4 hours in the fridge, ideally overnight for best flavors. Cooking takes about 30-40 minutes depending on your method—grilling or roasting. In total, you can expect about 5-6 hours for the entire process, including marinating!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a sizeable mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well until combined. This zesty mixture is what makes the mojo truly special!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Place the pork shoulder or loin into a large resealable plastic bag or a deep dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, making sure to cover it entirely with that delicious flavor. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor!
3. Prepare for Cooking:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C), or prepare your oven if you prefer roasting. Don’t forget to remove the pork from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. You can keep the remaining marinade to brush on while cooking.
4. Cooking the Pork:
Grill the pork directly over the heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, ensuring it gets a nice char and is cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, roast in the oven for about 25-35 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
5. Finish Up:
While the pork is cooking, you can brush it with the reserved marinade every so often to keep it juicy and flavorful. Once it’s done cooking, transfer the pork to a cutting board and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
6. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the pork thinly against the grain for tender bites. Serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and perhaps a wedge of orange or lime for that extra zesty touch. Enjoy your amazing mojito pork with rice, beans, or a vibrant salad!
Bon appétit! Your Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder and loin are traditional choices, you can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for thinner cuts of meat like chicken.
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork?
For the best flavor and juiciness, marinate the pork for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This allows the spices and citrus to penetrate the meat more thoroughly!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Citrus Juice?
If fresh orange and lime juice are not available, bottled juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh provides the best flavor. You can also experiment with other citrus juices like grapefruit or tangerine for a different twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or oven, adding a sprinkle of water to keep it moist if needed. You can also chop it up for delicious tacos or salads!
