Cuban Roast Pork, or Lechón Asado, is a flavorful, tender, and juicy dish that is marinated in a garlicky citrus mojo marinade and slow-roasted until perfectly browned and crispy on the outside. This traditional Cuban dish is a staple at family gatherings and celebrations, offering bold, zesty flavors from the combination of sour orange juice, garlic, oregano, and cumin. Whether served with rice and beans, plantains, or in a Cuban sandwich, this roast pork delivers a delicious taste of Cuban cuisine that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup sour orange juice (or 1/4 cup lime juice + 1/4 cup orange juice)
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large onion, sliced
Instructions:
- Prepare the mojo marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sour orange juice (or lime and orange juice mixture), minced garlic, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the pork: Place the pork shoulder in a large dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Roast the pork: Remove the pork from the marinade and place it in a roasting pan. Scatter the sliced onions around the pork. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and roast for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C). Baste the pork with the juices occasionally.
- Crisp the pork: For a crispy exterior, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 20-30 minutes of roasting, or place the pork under the broiler for a few minutes until the outside is golden and crispy.
- Rest and serve: Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding or slicing. Serve with the roasted onions and juices.
This Cuban Roast Pork is deeply marinated and slow-cooked to perfection, offering a juicy and flavorful centerpiece for any meal, whether served on its own or as part of a classic Cuban sandwich.
