Introduction
This mouth-watering pork recipe is a perfect solution for any gathering or special occasion. Infused with a vibrant marinade of citrus and fresh herbs, this dish will become a favorite at your dinner table. The combination of tender pork and zesty Mojo sauce is simply irresistible, making it a centerpiece that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Marinade:
3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 cup cilantro (lightly packed)
1 tablespoon orange zest
3/4 cup fresh orange juice
1/2 cup lime juice
1/4 cup mint leaves (lightly packed)
8 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves (packed) or 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Pork:
4 lb (2 kg) pork shoulder or pork butt, skinless and boneless
Mojo Sauce:
2 tablespoons lime juice
1/4 cup orange juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
3.5 to 4 hours
Total Time
4 to 4.5 hours
Yield
Serves 8-10
The preparation of this delicious pork dish begins by blending a fragrant marinade infused with fresh herbs and citrus. Once marinated overnight, the pork is roasted to perfection, either for a tender result or a more fall-apart texture. Finally, the dish is served with a citrusy Mojo sauce that adds a burst of flavor, elevating the meal to new heights. Enjoy this culinary delight with friends and family for an unforgettable dining experience!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
In a food processor, combine all marinade ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, cilantro, orange zest, fresh orange juice, lime juice, mint leaves, garlic cloves, oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Blend until the herbs and garlic are finely chopped. Alternatively, you can finely chop the garlic and herbs by hand and then mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl.
Marinate the Pork
Place the pork shoulder or pork butt in a large ziplock bag. Pour in the marinade, ensuring the pork is well-coated. Seal the bag securely and refrigerate it overnight. To avoid any leaks, place the bag in a bowl.
Prep the Pork for Roasting
Remove the pork from the marinade after the marinating time is up. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about one hour. Reserve the marinade for later use.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for roasting the pork.
Start Roasting
Place the marinated pork on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast the pork uncovered for 30 minutes, basting it with the pan juices every so often.
Continue Roasting
After 30 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Continue roasting the pork for an additional 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 160°F (70°C).
Alternative Cooking Method
For a fall-apart tender option, roast the pork at a lower temperature of 320°F (160°C) for 3.5 hours. The meat should be easily shredded with two forks when done.
Rest the Pork
Once roasted, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes. Cover it loosely with foil to retain warmth.
Prepare the Mojo Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the reserved marinade, lime juice, orange juice, and 2 tablespoons of the drippings from the roasting pan. Bring this mixture to a boil, season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it simmer for 1 minute.
Serve
Slice the pork and serve it with the Mojo Sauce on the side. For an extra touch, you can garnish the dish with pan-fried orange slices and additional cilantro leaves.
Notes
Marination Time
For best flavor, ensure the pork marinates overnight to allow the flavors to meld effectively.
Basting
Regular basting during roasting helps keep the pork moist and enhances the overall flavor.
Internal Temperature
Using a meat thermometer is recommended to check for doneness. The pork is safe to eat at 160°F (70°C), but for a more tender result, cook longer at the lower temperature.
Pork Cut Options
Pork shoulder or pork butt works well for this recipe due to their fat content, which contributes to the meat’s flavor and tenderness.
Mojo Sauce Adjustment
Feel free to adjust the lime and orange juice ratios in the Mojo Sauce according to your taste preferences.
Cook techniques
Marinading
Marinade is a technique used to enhance the flavor and tenderness of meat. For this recipe, combine various herbs, citrus juices, and spices in a food processor or bowl. Allow the pork to soak in this mixture overnight to properly infuse the flavors.
Resting
After cooking, allow the pork to rest for about 20 minutes before slicing. This step helps redistribute the juices within the meat, ensuring a moist and tender dish.
Roasting
Roasting in the oven allows the pork to develop a crispy exterior while cooking evenly throughout. Start at a higher temperature to create a crust, then lower the temperature for thorough cooking.
Basting
Regularly basting the pork with its pan juices keeps the meat moist and enhances flavor. This should be done every 30 minutes during the roasting process.
Preparing Sauce
A sauce can elevate the dish further. Combine reserved marinade with citrus juices and pan drippings to create a flavorful Mojo Sauce that complements the pork perfectly.
FAQ
How long should I marinate the pork?
It is recommended to marinate the pork overnight for optimal flavor infusion.
What is the ideal internal temperature for pork?
The pork should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, while this recipe uses pork shoulder or pork butt, other cuts can be used, but cooking times may vary.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
You can finely chop the garlic and herbs by hand and then mix them with the other marinade ingredients in a bowl.
How can I achieve fall-apart tender pork?
For a more tender pork, roast it at a lower temperature (320°F or 160°C) for an extended time until easily shredded.
Conclusion
The marinated pork shoulder results in a delightful dish that showcases vibrant flavors from the citrus and herbs. The slow-roasting process ensures tenderness, while the Mojo Sauce adds an extra layer of zest and moisture. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, offering a delicious centerpiece that can be enjoyed in various ways, whether served with rice, on tacos, or in a sandwich.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try pairing the pork with grilled vegetables for a balanced meal that brings out the flavors of the marinade.
Consider adding some tropical fruit salsa
Create a refreshing salsa with diced mango, pineapple, or papaya, mixed with red onion, cilantro, and a hint of lime juice to complement the pork’s zest.
Incorporate avocado
Serve slices of creamy avocado alongside the pork for a rich and smooth contrast to the zesty flavors.
Make sliders
Shred the pork and serve it on slider buns with a tangy coleslaw, perfect for a casual gathering or picnic.
Use it in tacos
Load soft corn tortillas with shredded pork, topped with pickled red onions and fresh cilantro for a delightful twist on traditional tacos.
Add sides like black beans or rice
These sides can enhance the meal’s substance and work well to soak up the Mojo Sauce.
Create a variation with chicken
Use the same marinade for chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter yet equally flavorful alternative.
Try a breakfast twist
Use the pork in a hearty breakfast burrito with scrambled eggs, cheese, and avocado for a morning treat that packs a punch.
