This Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is bursting with flavor! The pork is marinated in a zesty mix of garlic, citrus juices, and spices, making it super tasty and juicy.
Honestly, the marinade is so good, I could bathe in it! 🥳 I love serving this pork with rice and beans—it’s simple, but every bite is a party for your taste buds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for marinating because it becomes tender and flavorful during cooking. If you can’t find it, pork butt works well too. Both have enough fat to keep the meat juicy. For a leaner option, you could use boneless chicken thighs.
Fresh Citrus Juices: The blend of orange and lime juices gives the marinade its unique flavor. If you’re short on fresh oranges, you can use bottled juice, but fresh is always better. You can also try grapefruit juice for a twist!
Garlic: Garlic is essential for that bold flavor. Feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover! If you need a milder option, consider using roasted garlic instead.
Cilantro or Parsley: Cilantro adds a classic touch, but if you’re not a fan, parsley is a great substitute. You could even skip it altogether if needed. Some people like to switch it up with green onions for a different flavor.
How Do I Marinate the Pork Properly?
Marinating is where the flavor magic happens! The longer you marinate the pork, the better it absorbs those delicious flavors. Aim for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal.
- Mix your marinade ingredients in a bowl or a zip-top bag. Make sure to whisk well to combine.
- Place the pork in the marinade, ensuring it’s well-coated. If using a bag, try to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
- Refrigerate the marinating pork. This is a great time to plan your sides!
When you’re ready to cook, don’t forget to let the pork sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling or roasting. This helps it cook evenly.
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt), trimmed of excess fat
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires at least 4 hours for marinating, so plan ahead! You can marinate overnight for even more flavor. Cooking time will be around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your cooking method.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro (or parsley), olive oil, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a little kick). Whisk everything together until well combined.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Place the pork shoulder into a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best to really let those flavors soak in.
3. Preheat the Grill or Oven:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Cook the Pork:
Take the pork out of the marinade (don’t throw away the marinade just yet!). If grilling, place the pork on the grill and cook for about 20-30 minutes per side, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade. If you prefer roasting, place the pork in a baking dish and cook uncovered in the oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting often until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, or up to 160°F for well done.
5. Rest and Slice:
Once the pork is done, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it extra juicy. After resting, slice the pork against the grain into thick pieces.
6. Serve:
Serve your Cuban mojo marinated pork with fresh orange slices, lime wedges, and your favorite sides like black beans and rice, fried plantains, or a refreshing green salad. Enjoy the burst of citrus and garlic flavors in every mouthful!
Dig in and enjoy this tasty dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends! 🍊🌿
FAQ for Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal for moisture and flavor, you can use boneless chicken thighs or even beef for a variation. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary with different meats.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork?
You can marinate the pork for a minimum of 4 hours, but for the best flavor, aim for 12 to 24 hours. Just make sure to refrigerate it during this time to keep it safe.
What Should I Do with Leftover Marinade?
It’s best to discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw meat to avoid foodborne illness. If you want to use it as a sauce, make sure to cook it in a saucepan until it reaches a rolling boil for at least a few minutes to kill any bacteria.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the pork a day or two ahead of time. Additionally, cooked pork can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently before serving.
