Craving a flavorful and tender pork dish that practically cooks itself? Look no further! This Mojo Pork recipe, slow-cooked to perfection in your trusty crock pot, is a delicious and easy weeknight meal or a show-stopping centerpiece for a weekend gathering. Forget complicated techniques; this recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick dinner idea. Get ready to experience the vibrant flavors of Cuba right in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb boneless pork shoulder (butt roast)
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Mojo Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, oregano, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). This vibrant mixture is the heart of our Mojo Pork, creating a truly unforgettable flavor profile.
Step 2: Marinating the Pork
Place the pork shoulder in your crock pot. Pour the prepared Mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring it's coated evenly. Add the roughly chopped onion on top of the pork. This helps to add a nice sweetness and depth of flavour to the final dish.
Step 3: Slow Cooking the Magic
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. The low and slow cooking method ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 4: Shredding and Serving
Once the pork is cooked through, carefully remove it from the crock pot and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into smaller pieces. You can either mix the shredded pork back into the cooking juices for a juicier dish, or serve it separately.
Serving Suggestions:
This Mojo Pork is incredibly versatile! Serve it on crusty bread for delicious Cuban sandwiches, piled high on rice and beans for a complete meal, or use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. The possibilities are endless!
Cooking Tips for the Best Mojo Pork:
- Don't skip the marinade! The marinade is key to achieving that authentic Cuban flavor. Allow the pork to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking, or even better, overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor penetration.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it entirely.
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the pork is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
- Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the Mojo Pork a day or two in advance and reheat it before serving.
Variations:
- Add some sweetness: A splash of brown sugar or honey added to the marinade can enhance the sweetness and balance the acidity.
- Citrus twist: Experiment with different citrus fruits, like grapefruit or even pineapple juice, for a unique flavor profile.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili powder or chipotle powder for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and ingredients used. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients and quantities. However, generally, expect this dish to be a good source of protein and relatively high in fat.
This Mojo Pork recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, delicious food. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!