This Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is bursting with flavor! The pork is marinated in a zesty mix of garlic, citrus juice, and spices, making it super tasty and juicy. Yum!
I’ve got to say, the garlic and citrus make this dish so bright! It pairs perfectly with rice or plantains, so there’s no need for a fancy side. Just deliciousness all around! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Butt: These cuts are perfect because they become super tender when cooked. If you’re looking for a quicker option, you can try pork tenderloin, but adjust the cooking time since it’s leaner.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that bold flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but it won’t be as punchy. Use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Citrus Juices: Orange juice is essential for that classic mojo flavor. If you’re out, use more lime or lemon juice. Fresh is best, but bottled juice will do in a pinch.
Olive Oil: This is for moisture and richness. Avocado oil is a great substitute if you want a different flavor. Just steer clear of oils with strong flavors like coconut!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a great flavor, but if you’re not a fan, parsley will work too. For a different twist, try fresh mint!
How Can I Get the Best Flavor from My Marinade?
To really maximize the flavor of the marinade, make sure to marinate your pork for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the garlic and citrus juices to penetrate and fully flavor the meat!
- Mix your marinade a day ahead if you like. The flavors will deepen, making it even tastier!
- When you massage the marinade into the meat, don’t be shy! This helps to really coat every piece.
- Keep the remaining marinade for basting or as a sauce. Just make sure to boil it first to eliminate any raw meat bacteria!
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt, trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes of active prep time, plus at least 4 hours for marinating—overnight is best! Once you’re ready to cook, grilling will take around 15-20 minutes. So, plan for a lovely meal in about 4-5 hours, mostly waiting as the flavors meld together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, fresh orange juice, lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Stir this mixture together until it’s all combined nicely. This is your zesty mojo marinade!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Toss the pork chunks into a large zip-top bag or a covered container. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, and massage it into the meat to ensure every piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover your container and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, take the pork out of the marinade. Allow the excess marinade to drip off, but don’t rinse it off! Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat so it’s hot and ready for grilling.
4. Grill and Cook:
Place the pork pieces on the grill, turning occasionally. Grill them for about 15-20 minutes or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check— the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safety and great taste!
5. Use the Reserved Marinade (Optional):
If you like, while the pork is grilling, put the reserved marinade in a small saucepan. Heat it to a boil, then let it simmer for a few minutes to ensure it’s cooked through. You can drizzle this over the pork when serving for an extra burst of flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled, let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it with rice, black beans, or fried plantains to create a delicious Cuban meal. Enjoy every juicy, flavorful bite!
This recipe yields tender, flavorful pork with an irresistible garlicky-citrus mojo glaze that’s grilled to perfection!
FAQ for Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or butt is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness, you can also use pork tenderloin for a leaner option. Just be cautious with the cooking time, as tenderloin cooks faster.
Can I Marinate the Pork for Longer?
Yes, you can marinate the pork for up to 24 hours for even deeper flavor. Just be sure not to go beyond that, as the citrus juices can start to break down the meat too much, resulting in a mushy texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What Can I Serve with Mojo Pork?
This dish pairs beautifully with traditional sides like rice and black beans, but you can also serve it with fried plantains or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite sides!
