Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/14 checked
8
servings
1 unit

pork shoulder picnic

4 unit

garlic

minced

2 tbsp

cilantro

minced

2 tbsp

oregano

2 tbsp

sazon with annatto

2 tbsp

adobo

1 tsp

salt

to taste

1 tsp

pepper

to taste

0.5 cup

lime juice

0.5 cup

lemon juice

0.5 cup

vinegar

0.25 cup

olive oil

1 cup

cilantro

chopped

6 unit

garlic cloves

smashed

Step 1
~34 min

Prepare the Pork: Place the pork shoulder on a cutting board or in a large bowl.

Step 2
~34 min

Make Incisions: Using a 1-inch knife, stab the pork shoulder, creating deep holes.

Step 3
~34 min

First Night Marinade: In a large bowl, combine vinegar, lime juice, lemon juice, cilantro, oregano, and smashed garlic cloves.

Step 4
~34 min

Soak the Pork: Submerge the pork shoulder in the marinade and let it soak overnight (or for at least 4 hours).

Step 5
~34 min

Second Night Rinse: Rinse off the marinade from the pork shoulder.

Step 6
~34 min

Prepare Under-Skin Cavities (Optional): Carefully cut under the skin of the pork shoulder to create pockets for seasoning.

Step 7
~34 min

Make the Paste: In a bowl, mix minced garlic, minced cilantro, lemon juice, lime juice, olive oil, sazon with annatto, adobo, salt, and pepper to create a thick paste.

Step 8
~34 min

Season the Pork: Generously rub the paste all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it fills the holes made earlier and any cavities created under the skin.

Step 9
~34 min

Rest: Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a roasting pan and cover with aluminum foil. Let it rest overnight (or for at least 4 hours).

Step 10
~34 min

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 11
~34 min

Initial Roast: Place the uncovered pork shoulder in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Step 12
~34 min

Reduce Heat: Cover the pork shoulder with aluminum foil and reduce the oven temperature to either 275°F (135°C) for a long roast or 350°F (175°C) for a shorter roast.

Step 13
~34 min

Slow Roast: Roast for 6-8 hours at 275°F (135°C) or 2-4 hours at 350°F (175°C) until the internal temperature reaches 160-170°F (71-77°C).

Step 14
~34 min

Crisp the Skin: Uncover the pork shoulder and increase the oven temperature back to 400°F (200°C). Roast for another 20 minutes, or until the skin is crispy.

Step 15
~34 min

Rest: Let the cooked pernil rest for 20 minutes before carving and serving.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

For extra crispy skin, broil for a few minutes at the end of cooking.

Adjust the salt according to your preference, as the adobo and sazon contain salt.

If the skin starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil during the roasting process.

Letting the pork rest is crucial for juicy and tender meat.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

20 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

The pork can be marinated and seasoned a day or two in advance.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Strong
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with Arroz con Gandules (rice and pigeon peas)

Serve with Tostones (fried plantains)

Serve with Habichuelas Guisadas (stewed beans)

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Arroz con Gandules
Tostones
Habichuelas Guisadas
Ensalada de Coditos (Macaroni Salad)

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Puerto Rico

Cultural Significance

A traditional dish served during holidays and celebrations.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Christmas
New Year's Eve
Thanksgiving

Occasion Tags

Holiday
Celebration
Dinner Party

Popularity Score

75/100

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