Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/19 checked
6
servings
4 unit

bone-in pork shoulder

trimmed of excess fat

12 clove

garlic

coarsely chopped

0.5 cup

olive oil

0.25 cup

fresh oregano leaves

finely chopped

2 tbsp

fresh oregano leaves

finely chopped

3.5 cup

fresh orange juice

1.25 cup

fresh lime juice

1 unit

orange zest

grated

1 unit

lime zest

grated

1 tsp

kosher salt

1 tsp

black pepper

freshly ground

4 clove

garlic

1 unit

serrano chile

chopped

3 tbsp

fresh cilantro leaves

1 pinch

kosher salt

0.75 cup

fresh orange juice

0.25 cup

fresh lime juice

0.25 cup

extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp

clover honey

Step 1
~9 min

Make small slits over the entire surface of the pork using a paring knife.

Step 2
~9 min

Set aside 1 teaspoon of the garlic for the sauce.

Step 3
~9 min

Rub the rest of the garlic into the slits.

Step 4
~9 min

Whisk together the olive oil and the 1/4 cup oregano in a large roasting pan.

Step 5
~9 min

Add the pork, turn to coat.

Step 6
~9 min

Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 8 and up to 24 hours.

Step 7
~9 min

Remove the pork from the refrigerator 30 minutes before roasting.

Step 8
~9 min

Preheat the oven to 425F.

Step 9
~9 min

Combine 3 cups of the orange juice, 1 cup of the lime juice, and the orange and lime zests in a large saucepan over high heat.

Step 10
~9 min

Boil to reduce to 2 cups.

Step 11
~9 min

Remove from the heat and stir in the remaining 1/2 cup orange juice, 1/4 cup lime juice, reserved 1 teaspoon chopped garlic, and remaining 2 tablespoons oregano.

Step 12
~9 min

Let the sour orange sauce cool to room temperature.

Step 13
~9 min

Season the pork with salt and pepper.

Step 14
~9 min

Transfer the roasting pan to the oven, and roast for 30 minutes.

Step 15
~9 min

Reduce the oven temperature to 350F and continue roasting until the pork is golden brown and a thermometer inserted into the center reaches 180F, about 2 hours.

Step 16
~9 min

Baste the pork with the sour orange sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Step 17
~9 min

Remove the pork from the oven, baste it with any remaining sauce.

Step 18
~9 min

Tent it loosely with foil, and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Step 19
~9 min

Serve slices drizzled with a little of the Mojo Dipping Sauce.

Step 20
~9 min

Using a mortar and pestle, mash the garlic, serrano, cilantro, and a few pinches of salt until it becomes a paste.

Step 21
~9 min

Add the orange juice, lime juice, oil, and honey, and stir to combine.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

For a smokier flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade.

Marinate the pork for at least 12 hours for optimal flavor.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

20 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Can be marinated a day in advance.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
High
Noise Level
Medium
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with rice and beans.

Serve with plantains.

Serve with a side salad.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Black beans and rice
Fried plantains
Cuban bread

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Cuba

Cultural Significance

Pork is a staple in Cuban cuisine.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Christmas
New Year's Eve
Family Gatherings

Occasion Tags

Family Dinner
Holiday
Party

Popularity Score

70/100

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