Cuban Pork Roast, or Lechón Asado, is a classic Cuban dish known for its tender, flavorful pork marinated in citrus and garlic, then slow-roasted to perfection. The marinade, called mojo, infuses the pork with bright, bold flavors. This dish is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings, and pairs wonderfully with rice, black beans, and plantains.
Ingredients:
For the Mojo Marinade:
- ½ cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 8-10 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Pork:
- 4-5 pound pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the mojo marinade:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. This will be your mojo marinade.
- Marinate the pork:
- Place the pork shoulder in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, making sure it’s fully coated. Add the sliced onions on top and around the pork. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors penetrate.
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the pork from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Roast the pork:
- Transfer the marinated pork shoulder to a roasting pan, fat side up, and pour the marinade with onions over the top. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
- Roast the pork in the preheated oven for 3½ to 4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and pulls apart easily. If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C) for shredding.
- Crisp the pork (optional):
- For crispy edges, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 15-20 minutes of roasting, or uncover the pork and broil for a few minutes until the exterior is golden and crispy.
- Shred and serve:
- Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding it with two forks. Spoon the remaining juices and onions over the pork for extra flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Serve this flavorful Cuban Pork Roast with traditional sides like rice and black beans, fried plantains, or a simple salad for a delicious Cuban meal!
