This Easy Cuban Roast Pork is bursting with zesty citrus flavors! Using juicy pork and a tangy marinade, it’s perfect for gatherings or a simple family meal.
The scent alone will make your neighbors curious! I like to serve it with rice and beans for a meal that feels like a feast, even on a weeknight. Enjoy the deliciousness! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: The star of this dish! Bone-in pork shoulder has the right balance of fat for tenderness. If it’s unavailable, you can use a boneless shoulder or even a pork loin, but it might not be as juicy.
Citrus Juices: Fresh orange juice is a must for authentic flavor, but you can use bottled juice if needed. For a twist, try swapping some orange juice with grapefruit or adding a splash of pineapple juice!
Garlic: I love using fresh garlic for a punch of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but fresh is best for marinating.
Spices: Ground cumin and oregano are traditional spices, adding depth to the flavor. If you’re out of cumin, try coriander for a different taste. Oregano can be substituted with Italian seasoning.
Cilantro: Optional for garnish, but it adds freshness. If you don’t like cilantro, parsley makes a nice alternative as it also adds a fresh look.
How Do I Get Juicy, Flavorful Pork Roast?
The key to juicy roast pork lies in the marinating process! Marinate your pork for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for letting the flavors soak in deeply. Make sure the marinade fully covers the meat for the best results.
- Mix the marinade well, ensuring garlic and spices are evenly distributed.
- Use a resealable bag for easy coating and storage.
- When roasting, keep an eye on the temperature. The goal is to reach around 190°F (88°C) for perfect tenderness.
- Basting the pork with the marinade during roasting keeps it moist. Remember to reserve some marinade before pouring it on the meat, so you have enough for basting later!
Following these tips will help you serve mouthwatering, citrus-infused Cuban roast pork every time!
Easy Cuban Roast Pork Recipe with Citrus Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 to 5 pounds bone-in pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (preferably Valencia or sweet oranges)
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
- 1 onion, sliced (optional, for roasting bed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cuban Roast Pork recipe will take approximately:
- Active Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinating Time: 4 hours (or preferably overnight)
- Cooking Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Resting Time: 15 to 20 minutes
In total, plan for about 8 to 9 hours from start to finish, factoring in marinating time for the best flavor. The hands-on time is minimal, giving you plenty of time to relax while it roasts!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until everything is well mixed. This flavorful marinade is what gives the pork its signature taste!
2. Marinate the Pork:
Take your pork shoulder and place it into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade all over the pork, ensuring every bit of it is coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for deepening those citrus flavors.
3. Preheat the Oven:
When you’re ready to start cooking, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This low and slow cooking method helps make your pork super tender!
4. Prepare the Pork for Roasting:
After marinating, take the pork out of the fridge and set it aside. Reserve the marinade for later. If you’d like, lay out sliced onions in your roasting pan—they’ll add great flavor! Place the marinated pork on top of the onions or on a roasting rack.
5. Roast the Pork:
Pour about half of the reserved marinade over the pork. Cover the roasting pan loosely with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Roast the pork for about 3 to 4 hours. You’ll want an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) for perfectly tender, shreddable pork. Baste the meat every hour with the remaining marinade to keep it juicy and flavorful.
6. Finish the Roast:
During the last 30 minutes of roasting, remove the foil. This will allow the pork to develop a lovely brown crust. If you want an even crispier skin, feel free to raise the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) during this stage, but keep an eye out to prevent burning!
7. Rest the Meat:
Once the pork is cooked, carefully take it out of the oven and tent it with foil. Let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tasty final product.
8. Serve:
Slice or shred the pork, and if you’d like, sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro for a nice touch. Pair it with traditional Cuban sides like black beans, white rice, and fried plantains for an authentic meal. Enjoy every flavorful bite of your Easy Cuban Roast Pork!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is preferred for its tenderness and fat content, you can also use a boneless shoulder or a pork loin. Just keep in mind that if you opt for a leaner cut like loin, it may cook faster and require careful monitoring to avoid drying out.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. A dash of hot sauce can also add some kick! Adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences.
Can I Marinate the Pork for Longer Than One Night?
Yes, you can marinate the pork for up to 2 days in the fridge. Just be cautious not to go beyond this time, as the acidity in the citrus juices can start to “cook” the meat, leading to a mushy texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover roast pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, slice off what you need and warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months for enjoying later!
Feel free to ask more questions if you need further clarification or tips!
