The other evening, as I settled down after a long day, the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine piqued my curiosity. I decided to channel that energy into something special: Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork. The moment I opened my fridge and caught a whiff of fresh garlic mingling with zesty citrus, I felt an irresistible pull towards a dish that would transport my taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Havana.
This recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and simplicity. Imagine succulent pork, lovingly enveloped in a marinade that sings with orange and lime juice, garlic, and spices. It’s a dish that not only delights the senses but also epitomizes ease in the kitchen, perfect for both seasoned home cooks and those new to the culinary scene.
And the best part? With a minimal prep time, you’ll have a show-stopping centerpiece to serve at dinner, ensuring your loved ones keep coming back for more. Dive into this delicious experience, and let’s create a meal that’s nothing short of extraordinary!
Why is Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork irresistible?
Flavor Explosion: The mojo marinade, brimming with citrus, garlic, and spices, creates an unforgettable taste that will have everyone at the table rave about it.
Effortless Preparation: With only 20 minutes of active prep time, you can enjoy a gourmet dish without spending all day in the kitchen.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or festive gatherings, this recipe suits any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: It’s hard to resist the tender meat paired with vibrant flavors, making it a recipe that will win over even the pickiest eaters.
Leftover Magic: Enjoy delicious leftovers the next day – think tacos, sandwiches, or salads!
For ideas on how to serve, check out my tips on creative serving suggestions.
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork Ingredients
Get ready to infuse your meal with rich and zesty flavor!
For the Pork
• Pork shoulder or pork loin – 3 to 4 pounds, providing a tender bite that absorbs the mojo marinade beautifully.
For the Mojo Marinade
• Fresh orange juice – 1/2 cup, delivering a sweet citrus zing that’s essential for authentic flavor.
• Fresh lime juice – 1/4 cup, balancing the sweetness with a tangy kick that’s refreshing.
• Garlic – 8 cloves, minced for a robust aroma and depth in flavor that enhances the dish.
• Olive oil – 1/4 cup, enriching the marinade, helping it cling to the pork and enhancing tenderness.
• Fresh cilantro – 1/4 cup, chopped, adding a burst of freshness that complements the citrus notes.
• Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon, offering an earthy warmth that rounds out the flavor profile.
• Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon, providing a herbal note that beautifully harmonizes with the other spices.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon, essential for bringing out all the vibrant flavors in the marinade.
• Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon, adding a subtle heat and depth to your mojo marinade.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – 1/2 teaspoon, for those who crave a little bit of spice in their Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork.
• White vinegar – 1 tablespoon, enhancing the marinade’s acidity for a brighter taste.
For Garnishing
• Orange slices (optional) – provide a beautiful presentation and an added touch of citrus flair for serving.
How to Make Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
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Whisk Together: In a medium bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and white vinegar. Give it a good whisk until everything is well blended. This zingy mojo marinade is the heart of your dish!
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Marinate: Place the pork shoulder or pork loin into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour that luscious mojo marinade over the pork, making sure it’s well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for an even richer flavor).
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Preheat Oven: When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the marinated pork from the fridge and place it in a roasting pan or ovenproof dish. Don’t forget to reserve some marinade for basting later!
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Roast: Place the pork in the preheated oven and roast for about 45 to 60 minutes. Baste with the reserved marinade every 15 minutes. Keep an eye out for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked meat.
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Broil for Crispiness: For a deliciously crispy and caramelized crust, switch your oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Watch closely to avoid burning—this is where the magic happens!
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Rest and Serve: Once it’s cooked, take the pork out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Slice into servings and, for an extra touch, garnish with fresh orange slices if desired.
Optional: Serve with a side of rice and black beans for a complete Cuban meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
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Marination Matters: Allowing the pork to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors. Don’t rush this step; longer is better for a vibrant taste!
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Basting Brilliance: Baste the pork every 15 minutes to keep it moist and enhance the flavor. Avoid skipping this step for maximum deliciousness.
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Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Overcooking can lead to dryness, so monitor closely!
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Crispy Finish: Turn on the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking to achieve that crispy, caramelized exterior, but watch for burning.
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Leftover Inspiration: Transform leftovers into hearty tacos or a refreshing salad. Repurposing is key to enjoying easy Cuban mojo marinated pork all week!
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this dish to your taste and dietary needs!
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Citrus Twist: Switch out orange juice for grapefruit juice for a unique, tangy flavor.
This little change can bring unexpected brightness and elevate your mojo marinade beautifully. -
Herb Replacement: Replace cilantro with fresh parsley or dill for a different herbal note.
Each herb brings its own character to the dish, allowing for a fresh interpretation. -
Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky flavor boost.
The warmth from these spices not only enhances the taste but also adds depth to the overall dish. -
Garlic-Free: For a milder taste, omit the garlic and use shallots instead.
The sweetness of shallots will still infuse your marinade with rich flavors while keeping it gentle. -
Sugar Rush: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of brown sugar into the marinade for a hint of sweetness.
This can create a delightful caramelization during roasting, enhancing the overall flavor profile. -
Vegetarian Version: Use firm tofu or portobello mushrooms in place of pork to create a plant-based alternative.
Marinating and roasting these options can yield delicious results, making this dish accessible to everyone. -
Gluten-Free Swap: Ensure all ingredients (like vinegar) are labeled gluten-free for those with sensitivities.
This simple tweak keeps your meal safe and enjoyable for all your guests. -
Zesty Finish: Drizzle with fresh lime juice just before serving for an additional burst of citrus.
This dance of flavors adds that perfect finishing touch, elevating your dish to new heights.
What to Serve with Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork?
Elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairings that perfectly complement the zesty, succulent flavors of this savory dish.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with fresh cilantro and lime provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pork.
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Black Beans: Creamy black beans seasoned with spices create a hearty, protein-packed side that’s a classic Cuban accompaniment.
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Grilled Plantains: Sweet and caramelized, grilled plantains add a delightful sweetness, balancing the citrus notes of the pork beautifully.
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Avocado Salad: A vibrant salad with ripe avocados, tomatoes, and lime dressing adds a creamy, fresh element to your plate.
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Charred Corn Salad: Smoky grilled corn mixed with bell peppers and cilantro brings a fresh crunch that brightens each bite.
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Tropical Fruit Salsa: A mix of pineapple, mango, and cilantro offers a sweet, tangy contrast to the savory pork, enhancing the dish’s tropical vibes.
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Refreshing Mojito: This minty cocktail featuring lime and rum pairs perfectly, bringing a dash of Cuban spirit to your meal.
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Choc Chip Cookies: For dessert, classic chocolate chip cookies offer a warm, sweet ending, inviting smiles all around the table.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork are a dream for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the mojo marinade and marinate the pork shoulder or loin up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all marinade ingredients as outlined, coat the pork well, and refrigerate it in a sealed bag or dish, ensuring it’s well-marinated for maximum flavor. This method not only saves time but also enhances the taste as the flavors meld overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply pop the marinated pork into the oven and roast it as directed for a delicious, hassle-free dinner that feels like a special occasion. You’ll end up with succulent, flavor-packed pork that’s just as delicious as if you had made it fresh that day!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Fridge: Store cooked Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its tenderness and flavor.
Freezer: Wrap portions of the cooked pork tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. This ensures the juicy flavors last!
Reheating: Thaw frozen pork in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, basting with a bit of marinade for extra moisture if desired.
Leftover Magic: Use leftover pork in various dishes like tacos or salads, transforming your meal into new culinary delights!
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pork for my Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork?
When choosing pork shoulder or pork loin, look for meat with a nice balance of fat and lean. The more marbling, the more flavorful and tender your dish will be. Avoid cuts with excessive dark spots or discoloration, as this can indicate loss of freshness.
How can I store leftover Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork?
Store any leftover cooked pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it to prevent condensation. You can also use freezer bags for portioning it out.
Can I freeze Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork?
Absolutely! Wrap your cooked pork tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, ensuring no air pockets remain. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
What’s the best way to reheat the cooked pork?
For reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pork in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, basting with some of the reserved marinade if you have it handy for added flavor and moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you’re serving this dish to guests, be mindful of common dietary restrictions, such as gluten intolerance or allergies to citrus. While this Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is naturally gluten-free, always check if your chosen soy sauce or marinade contains gluten.
What if my pork ends up overcooked and dry?
Don’t fret if your pork turns out a bit dry! A drizzle of warm broth or the reserved marinade can help revive moisture. Additionally, shredding the pork and mixing it with a sauce can transform it into delicious tacos or a hearty sandwich filling, ensuring it doesn’t go to waste!
Juicy Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork Your New Family Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and white vinegar. Whisk until well blended.
- Place the pork shoulder or pork loin in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the marinated pork from the fridge and place it in a roasting pan or ovenproof dish, reserving some marinade for basting.
- Roast the pork in the preheated oven for about 45 to 60 minutes, basting with reserved marinade every 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- For a crispy crust, switch your oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Once cooked, let the pork rest for about 10 minutes. Slice and garnish with fresh orange slices if desired.