This Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork is packed with flavor! Juicy pork is marinated in a zesty mix of garlic, citrus juices, and spices, making every bite a little party for your taste buds.
I love how easy this recipe is! Just let the pork soak up those delicious flavors, pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a meal that impresses everyone—without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: You can use pork tenderloin for a lean option or pork shoulder for more flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless chicken thighs work well too!
Fresh Citrus Juices: Freshly squeezed orange and lime juice gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice is okay, but fresh is way tastier. You can also try grapefruit juice for a twist.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is ideal for that punchy flavor. If you don’t have fresh, use garlic powder, but reduce the amount by half to avoid overpowering the dish.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness to the marinade. You can swap it for canola or avocado oil if you want a different flavor or have allergies.
How Can I Ensure My Pork is Juicy and Flavorful?
The most important step for juicy and flavorful pork is marination. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best! This tenderizes the meat and allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk well.
- Use a resealable bag for marinating; it ensures full coverage of the pork.
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking! It helps the juices redistribute within the meat.
Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork tenderloin or pork shoulder
- For the Mojo Marinade:
- 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 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- For Serving:
- Orange or lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15-20 minutes of active prep time, plus at least 2 hours for marinating, and then you’ll need around 20-30 minutes for grilling or roasting. If you can marinate overnight, it makes the pork even more flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This zesty combination will give the pork its delicious flavor!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Place the pork in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to let those flavors soak in.
3. Preheat Your Cooking Surface:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C).
4. Prepare the Pork for Cooking:
Remove the pork from the marinade, letting the excess marinade drip off. Don’t forget to save some marinade for basting later!
5. Grill or Roast the Pork:
If grilling, place the pork on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade. If roasting, position the pork on a baking sheet and cook for about 25-30 minutes, basting occasionally. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when done.
6. Let the Pork Rest:
After cooking, remove the pork from the heat and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender.
7. Slice and Serve:
Slice the pork into medallions and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve with orange or lime wedges for that extra citrus zing!
This Cuban mojo marinated pork pairs wonderfully with rice, black beans, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your flavorful dish! 🎉
FAQs about Easy Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While pork tenderloin and pork shoulder are the best options for this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs or even beef if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats will require varying lengths of cooking time.
Can I Marinate the Pork for Longer Than 24 Hours?
It’s best to marinate the pork for up to 24 hours. If marinated too long, the acid in the citrus juices can start to break down the meat too much, making it mushy. Stick to a maximum of 24 hours for optimal texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the meat moist.
What Should I Serve with Mojo Pork?
This dish is delicious served with rice, black beans, and a fresh salad. It also pairs well with plantains or roasted vegetables for a more traditional Cuban meal!
