Hey there, fellow foodies!
Can I just say how much I adore exploring new flavors and diving headfirst into the world of delicious cuisines?
As a food lover, I’m constantly on the lookout for slow-cooker pork recipes that take my taste buds on an exhilarating journey!
And guess what?
Today, I’m about to let you in on a little secret that’ll transport you straight to the colorful streets of Cuba!
Oh yes, hold on to your taste buds because you’re diving into the mouthwatering world of Cuban Mojo Pork!
You might be thinking “Why is Cuban mojo pork such a big deal?”
Well, my friends, this iconic dish is the epitome of bold and tangy flavors, dancing together in perfect harmony.
And the best part? (It’s as easy to make as it is delightful to devour!)
Get ready to infuse your kitchen with the spirit of Cuba as the tantalizing aroma fills the air.
Close your eyes, and you’ll feel the warmth of the Caribbean sun and the lively rhythm of Cuban music dancing on your palate.
So, let’s start and bring the vibrant flavors of Cuba to your table!
Grab your trusty meal prep essentials, and let’s dive into this unforgettable adventure of Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork.
Get set for a fiesta of flavors that’ll make your taste buds do the salsa! Let’s get cooking!
What is Cuban Mojo made of?
When it comes to this slow-cooker pork masterpiece, it’s all about the magical Cuban mojo marinade that infuses the pork with irresistible flavors.
Let’s delve into the essential ingredients that make up this traditional Cuban marinade and uncover the secrets behind its tantalizing taste.
Fresh Citrus Juices
Oh, la la! Cuban mojo pork gets its tangy kick from the dynamic duo of orange and lime juices.
The orange juice brings that zesty goodness, while the lime juice adds a refreshing twist. (talk about a citrus party that’ll have you singing praises!)
Aromatic Spices
Garlic takes the lead here, and boy, does it know how to shine! With its rich, garlicky charm, it adds a flavor punch that’ll make you swoon.
Picture this: minced garlic, dancing with delight, ready to infuse the pork with irresistible yumminess that even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to resist.
Dried Oregano and Ground Cumin
Now let’s spice things up a notch! These aromatic heroes join the party, bringing warmth and a touch of earthiness to the mix.
(And with every whiff, you’ll know something extraordinary is happening in that marinade)
Paprika
Oh, hello, paprika! With its vibrant hues and smoky essence, paprika turns the marinade into a visual feast.
But it’s not just about looks – it also adds a subtle depth that’ll leave the whole family begging for more.
Olive Oil
It’s the heart and soul of this marinade, providing a velvety canvas for all the flavors to mingle.
This hearty oil is the glue that brings everything together. (ensuring each nook and cranny of the pork gets a taste of the magic)
Salt and Pepper
Let’s not forget the trusty sidekicks – salt and pepper!
These two might seem ordinary, but they play a vital role in bringing out the best in this delightful pork dish. They ensure the flavor symphony hits all the right notes.
Now, when all these incredible ingredients come together, forming a mojo marinade like no other.
As the pork soaks in this mouthwatering concoction, it transforms into a tender, tangy, and savory delight. (Your senses are in for a happy dance they’ll never forget!)
Cuban Mojo Pork
Course: MainCuisine: CubanDifficulty: Easy7
servings15
minutes10
hours40
minutes380
kcalIngredients
3-4 pounds pork shoulder or pork butt
1 cup fresh orange juice
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
8-10 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional (fresh cilantro, lime wedges for garnish)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Mix well to create the flavorful Cuban mojo marinade. - Put the pork shoulder or pork butt into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared Cuban mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, for the best results, marinate overnight to allow the flavors to infuse into the meat. - Once the marinating time is complete, set your slow cooker to low heat.
Cook the pork for approximately 8 hours, or until it becomes tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld, resulting in succulent and flavorful pork. - After the slow cooking is done, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully transfer the slow-cooked pork onto a roasting pan lined with aluminum foil.
Place the pork in the hot oven and roast for 10-15 minutes or until the top develops a beautiful golden-brown crust. - Take the Cuban Mojo Pork out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Drizzle some of the flavorful pan juices over the pork for an extra burst of tangy goodness.
And garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, and savor the delicious taste of Cuba!
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can bring the vibrant flavors of Cuba to your own kitchen.
The succulent and tender Cuban Mojo Pork, infused with the magic of the citrusy marinade, is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Delicious Sides and Serving Suggestions To elevate your Cuban mojo pork experience
No Cuban mojo pork feast is complete without the perfect sides to complement its vibrant flavors.
Let’s explore a variety of delectable side dishes that will elevate your dining experience and transport you straight to the heart of Cuba.
Satisfying Black Beans and Rice
A quintessential Cuban side dish, Moros y Cristianos, translates to “Moors and Christians.”
It’s a delightful combination of black beans and white rice cooked together with aromatic spices.
As the beans infuse the rice with their rich flavors, it creates a hearty and comforting accompaniment to your Cuban mojo pork.
Making it the perfect choice for your meal-prep for dinner.
Crispy Fried Green Plantains
Savor the crispy goodness of Tostones, the beloved Cuban treat made from twice-fried green plantains.
These savory and slightly sweet plantain slices create the perfect side dish, beautifully contrasting with the tangy and succulent pork.
It’s an ideal pairing for busy moms looking to treat their taste buds!
Starchy Boiled Cassava with Mojo Sauce
Yuca, or cassava, is a starchy root vegetable that is boiled until tender and served with a drizzle of Mojo sauce.
The Mojo sauce complements the flavors of the Cuban mojo pork beautifully. (adding an extra burst of citrusy goodness)
Creamy Avocado Salad
Balance the richness of the pork with a refreshing avocado salad.
This simple yet flavorful salad features ripe avocados, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, all dressed in a light citrus vinaigrette.
Its creamy texture and vibrant colors make it a delightful addition to your Cuban feast.
Cuban Bread
To complete your Cuban feast, serve slices of traditional Cuban bread or Tostada Cubana, toasted and brushed with garlic butter.
The garlicky and buttery goodness of this bread is a perfect accompaniment to the flavorful slow-cook pork shoulder.
With these mouthwatering side dishes and serving suggestions, you’ll create a well-rounded Cuban feast that captures the true essence of Cuban cuisine.
Let your taste buds revel in the harmonious symphony of flavors as you indulge in each delightful bite.
And that’s it, your delightful journey through the vibrant flavors of Cuba with my easy family meal prep recipe has come to a conclusion.
Throughout your journey, you’ve unraveled the secrets of the magical marinade for the Cuban mojo pork.
You experienced a symphony of fresh citrus juices, aromatic spices, and garlic that infused the pork with an irresistible taste and tenderness.
The slow roasting process in the cooker created a succulent and mouthwatering pork dish that captured the heart of everyone.
Pairing it with a selection of sides and serving suggestions elevated the feast, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Now, you’re equipped to embrace the spirit of Cuba, savor the warmth of the Caribbean, and share this delectable experience with your loved ones.
So, fire up your slow cooker, embrace culinary exploration, and let the flavors transport you to the vibrant streets of Havana.
Enjoy each delectable bite and happy cooking!
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FAQ
What does mojo pork mean?
Mojo pork refers to a traditional Cuban dish where pork is marinated in a zesty sauce known as “mojo.”
The marinade typically consists of fresh citrus juices, garlic, and spices, infusing the pork with delightful flavors and tenderness.
Is Cuban mojo pork spicy?
Cuban mojo pork is not overly spicy. While it incorporates aromatic spices like garlic and cumin, the dish is more about tanginess and flavor rather than heat.
The balance of fresh citrus juices and spices creates a harmonious blend that is savory and tangy, appealing to a wide range of taste preferences.
Can you freeze Cuban mojo pork?
Yes, you can freeze Cuban mojo pork for later enjoyment.
To freeze, allow the cooked pork to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
Label the containers with the date and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the pork in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently to preserve its flavors and tenderness.