This Easy Cuban Mojo Pork Marinade is full of zesty flavors! With juicy citrus, garlic, and herbs, it brings life to your pork dishes in a snap.
Trust me, marinating is the fun part! I love letting the pork soak up all that tasty mojo—it makes every bite delicious. Perfect for grilling or roasting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: Pork shoulder is the traditional choice for mojo. It’s fatty and flavorful! If you’re looking for something leaner, pork tenderloin works well, too. You could also use chicken if you’re avoiding pork.
Citrus Juices: Freshly squeezed orange and lime juice are crucial for that zesty flavor! If you’re in a pinch, you can use bottled juice, but fresh is always better. You could even try grapefruits for a different twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a strong flavor that really lifts the marinade. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder, but use less—about half a teaspoon for every clove.
Cilantro: This herb adds freshness and brightness. If cilantro isn’t your thing, try parsley as a substitute. It won’t have the same flavor, but it adds a nice freshness.
How Can You Marinade the Pork to Maximize Flavor?
Marinating is easy, but a few steps can enhance flavor! Start by blending the marinade well so every ingredient is mixed evenly. It also helps to score the surface of the pork lightly—this allows the marinade to penetrate deeper.
- Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl and taste it. Adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed!
- Vacuum-seal the pork in the marinade if you have a machine. If not, a resealable bag works great too—just push out as much air as possible.
- Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight to maximize flavor absorption.
Always remember to let the pork rest after cooking for the juices to redistribute, ensuring it stays tender and juicy!
Easy Cuban Mojo Pork Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork tenderloin
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation. For the best flavor, let the pork marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. Cooking takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on the cooking method. So, plan for a total time of around 4 to 5 hours, mostly marinating but well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you want some heat). Mix everything well to create 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, ensuring it’s well coated with all those flavorful ingredients. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors soak in.
3. Prepare for Cooking:
Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C). While that’s heating up, remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess drip off (discard the leftover marinade).
4. Cooking the Pork:
Grill the pork for about 20-30 minutes, making sure to turn it occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and gets a nice charred crust. If you prefer, you can also roast it in the oven on a baking sheet until it’s cooked through.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing it. This helps keep it juicy! Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and optional slices of orange or lime for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious Cuban mojo pork, whether for a hearty meal or lovely sandwiches!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Marinate the Pork for Longer than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the pork for up to 24 hours. Just be careful not to exceed this time, as the acidity in the citrus juices can start to break down the meat too much, making it mushy.
What Can I Substitute for Cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use fresh parsley as a substitute. It won’t have the same flavor, but it will add a fresh element to your dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet to avoid drying it out.
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is traditional, you can also use pork tenderloin, ribs, or even chicken. Just adjust the cooking time based on the cut you’re using, as they may vary.
