This tasty Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is full of zesty flavor! The pork is marinated in a special mix of garlic, citrus juice, and spices that makes every bite super yummy.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I love how the marinating really makes the pork juicy and tender. It’s perfect for tacos or served with rice—your taste buds will cheer! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder/Loin: Pork shoulder is great for its richness and flavor. If you prefer, pork loin is leaner but still works well. You can also use chicken or tofu for a different twist.
Citrus Juices: Fresh orange and lime juice make the marinade zesty. If fresh isn’t available, bottled juice will work, but I find fresh always brings the best flavor.
Garlic: Six cloves of garlic enhance the marinade’s taste. I love using fresh garlic, but if you’re in a pinch, 1-2 teaspoons of garlic powder can be an alternative.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley or even basil makes a nice substitute for a different flavor.
Spices: The cumin and oregano create that Cuban essence. Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste or add a dash of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy and tasty pork lies in marinating. Letting the pork soak in the mojo marinade overnight is best. This helps the flavors develop and tenderizes the meat.
- Mix the marinade well to ensure the flavors blend.
- Place the pork in a plastic bag to maximize contact with the marinade.
- Make sure to turn the bag occasionally to coat all sides.
- Follow the cooking tips, like using a meat thermometer to check for doneness; this ensures your pork is cooked perfectly without drying out.
Letting the pork rest after cooking is crucial! This step helps keep the juices inside, making every slice moist and delicious.
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 lbs pork shoulder or pork loin
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (or 2 tbsp dried cilantro)
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time for marinating, plus at least 4 hours in the fridge to let the flavors soak in—overnight is best. Cooking will take around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the thickness of the pork. Overall, it’s around 5 hours for the best flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a bowl, combine the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and you have a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Take your pork and place it in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, making sure it gets coated all over. If you’re using a bag, seal it tightly and give it a gentle massage to spread the marinade. Refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or, for the best results, overnight.
3. Preheat and Cook:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C). Take the pork out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. Keep the leftover marinade to baste while cooking.
4. Grill or Roast:
Put the pork on the grill or in the oven. Cook it for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, turning it occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade. Check with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the grill/oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This lets the juices redistribute and keeps it moist. After resting, slice the pork into thick pieces and serve warm. You can garnish with fresh cilantro and orange slices if you like!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork! It goes wonderfully with rice, beans, or even in delicious sandwiches!
FAQ for Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder and loin are recommended for their flavor and texture, you can also use chicken thighs or even beef. Just adjust cooking times as chicken will cook faster, while beef may take longer depending on the cut.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the meat in the oven at a low temperature or microwave it gently to prevent drying out.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the mojo marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it, as the ingredients may settle or separate.
What Should I Serve with Cuban Mojo Pork?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice and black beans, fried plantains, or a fresh salad. You can also shred the pork for tasty tacos or use it in sandwiches for a quick meal!
