Craving a delicious and effortless meal that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Cuba? Look no further! This Cuban Pork Crock Pot recipe is your ticket to a flavorful fiesta, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. Tender, juicy pork, infused with the bright and zesty flavors of citrus, garlic, and spices, makes this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend gathering, this recipe is a testament to the magic of slow cooking. Get ready to experience the best of homemade cooking with minimal effort!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb boneless pork shoulder (butt roast)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup lime juice
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- White rice or plantains (for serving)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. This helps it brown nicely and develop a deeper flavor.
- Season the pork generously with salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Make sure all sides are evenly coated.
Slow Cooking Magic:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder on all sides until lightly browned. This step adds a beautiful depth of flavor.
- Transfer the browned pork to your slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until softened.
- Pour the sautéed onions and garlic into the slow cooker along with the orange juice, lime juice, brown sugar, and bay leaf.
- If desired, add the chicken broth for extra moisture, especially if using a leaner cut of pork.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Serving & Enjoying:
- Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before shredding.
- Use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
- Skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid in the slow cooker. You can also strain the liquid if you prefer a cleaner sauce.
- Mix the shredded pork back into the cooking liquid to coat it evenly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over white rice or alongside delicious plantains.
Tips for the Best Cuban Pork:
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork in the orange and lime juice mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick!
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the cooking liquid on the stovetop after shredding the pork, allowing it to reduce. You can also thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water).
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Cuban Pork: Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the slow cooker for a spicier version.
- Pineapple Cuban Pork: Add ½ cup of diced pineapple to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for a sweet and savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy and healthy meal is perfect for a quick dinner idea, making it a delicious addition to your repertoire of food recipes. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade cooking with this fantastic Cuban Pork Crock Pot recipe!