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Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork

Zesty Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork That's Perfectly Tender

Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork is a tender, juicy dish infused with zesty citrus and herbs, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cuban
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Marinade
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Substitution: Avocado oil can be used for a similar flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro (Coriander) Substitution: Parsley or fresh mint may work if cilantro is unavailable.
  • 1 tablespoon Orange Zest Note: Use a microplane for fine zesting.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice Note: Fresh juice is preferred for optimal taste; bottled may lack freshness.
  • 1/4 cup Lime Juice Substitution: Lemon juice can replace lime if needed.
  • 1/4 cup Mint Leaves Note: Fresh mint enhances flavor; dried mint is less potent.
  • 6 cloves Garlic Cloves Substitution: Garlic powder can be used (1 clove = 1/8 tsp powder) in a pinch.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Oregano Substitution: Dried oregano is acceptable (use 1/3 of the amount).
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Note: Whole cumin can be toasted and ground for enhanced flavor.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
Pork
  • 4 pounds Pork Shoulder/Butt Note: Avoid loin cuts which can dry out.

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • roasting pan
  • ziplock bag
  • Oven

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Marinade - In a food processor, combine the extra virgin olive oil, cilantro, orange zest, fresh orange juice, lime juice, mint leaves, garlic cloves, fresh oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until finely chopped and well blended.
  2. Step 2: Marinate the Pork - Place the pork shoulder or butt into a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the meat is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag, pressing out as much air as possible, and refrigerate overnight.
  3. Step 3: Rest the Pork - Remove the pork from the refrigerator about 1 hour before cooking, allowing it to come to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
  4. Step 4: Initial Roasting - Place the marinated pork in a roasting pan and roast uncovered for 30 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Continue Roasting - After 30 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 190°C (375°F) and continue roasting for an additional 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
  6. Step 6: Shred for Pulled Pork (optional) - Lower the temperature to 160°C (320°F) and roast for 3.5 hours for a pulled pork version.
  7. Step 7: Rest the Meat - After roasting, remove the pork from the oven and cover loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for about 20 minutes.
  8. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy - Carve or shred the pork according to your preference, and serve with your favorite sides.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For maximum flavor, marinate the pork overnight, and always use fresh herbs and juices when possible.

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