Mojo Pork Shoulder

Mojo Pork Shoulder

  • Prep time: 4 hours
  • Cook time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 8
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Ingredients
  • 3-1/2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
  • 3/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
  • 3/4 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 8 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon oregano
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
Nutrition Facts
Serves 8

Description

Mojo pork, or “Lechón Asado con Mojo” in Spanish, holds significant cultural and culinary importance in Cuban cuisine. This traditional Cuban dish consists of marinated and roasted pork, typically served with a side of mojo sauce. Here are several reasons why mojo pork is significant in Cuban food:

  1. Cultural Tradition:

    • Mojo pork is deeply rooted in Cuban culinary traditions and is often associated with festive occasions and celebrations. It is a dish commonly prepared for special events, family gatherings, and holidays.

  2. Cuban Roast Tradition:

    • Roasting a whole pig, known as “Caja China” or “La Caja Asadora,” is a time-honored Cuban tradition. The pig is marinated in mojo sauce before being slow-roasted until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender. This method of preparation is associated with communal celebrations and large gatherings.

  3. Flavorful Marinade:

    • Mojo sauce, which is a key component of mojo pork, is a flavorful and aromatic marinade made with ingredients such as garlic, sour orange juice (or a combination of orange and lime juice), oregano, cumin, and other spices. The marinade imparts a bold and zesty flavor to the pork.

  4. Tender and Juicy Meat:

    • The mojo marinade not only infuses the pork with flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. The combination of slow roasting and the marinade results in juicy and succulent pork with a flavorful outer crust.

  5. Versatility:

    • While lechón asado con mojo is often associated with roasting a whole pig, the mojo marinade is also used for other cuts of pork, such as pork shoulder or pork loin. This versatility allows for variations in preparation, making mojo pork accessible for smaller gatherings or everyday meals.

  6. Accompaniment to Moros y Cristianos:

    • Mojo pork is often served alongside “Moros y Cristianos,” a traditional Cuban dish of black beans and rice cooked together. The combination of mojo pork and Moros y Cristianos is a classic pairing that represents a harmonious blend of flavors.

  7. Symbol of Celebration:

    • Mojo pork is often associated with celebratory events such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays like Christmas and New Year’s Eve. The act of roasting a whole pig and sharing it with family and friends symbolizes joy, abundance, and togetherness.

  8. Community and Sharing:

    • The preparation of mojo pork, especially when roasting a whole pig, is a communal activity that brings people together. It fosters a sense of community and sharing as family and friends gather to enjoy a delicious meal.

Overall, mojo pork is not just a dish in Cuban cuisine; it is a symbol of celebration, tradition, and the vibrant spirit of Cuban culture. The process of marinating and roasting the pork, the rich flavors of the mojo sauce, and the communal aspect of sharing the meal contribute to the cultural significance of mojo pork in Cuban food.

Instructions

  • 1. Mix all ingredients in a large ziploc bag with pork and refrigerate overnight.
  • 2. Preheat oven to 425F.
  • 3. Discard marinade and place pork on wire rack over baking sheet in oven. Back 30 minutes, until lightly browned.
  • 4. Reduce heat to 375F and continue cooking another 1-1/2 hours until the center reaches 155F.
  • 5. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes. Slice across the grain and serve.