What is Mojo Pork?

Mojo pork is a Cuban-style roast pork dish that is marinated in a flavorful blend of citrus juices, garlic, herbs, and spices. The pork is typically slow-roasted until it is tender and juicy, and the marinade infuses the meat with a delicious and complex flavor. Mojo pork can be served on its own, or it can be used as a filling for sandwiches or tacos.

History of Mojo Pork

Mojo pork has its roots in the Canary Islands, where it is believed to have originated in the 15th century. The dish was brought to Cuba by Spanish settlers in the 16th century, and it quickly became a popular dish on the island. Mojo pork is now a staple of Cuban cuisine, and it is enjoyed by people all over the world.

How to Make Mojo Pork

Making mojo pork is relatively easy, and it only requires a few simple ingredients. The first step is to make the mojo marinade. To make the mojo, you will need:

• Sour orange juice (or a combination of orange and lime juice)
• Garlic
• Oregano
• Cumin
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Once you have made the mojo, you will need to marinate the pork. To marinate the pork, you will need:

• A boneless pork shoulder
• The mojo marinade

To marinate the pork, simply place the pork in a large bowl or container and pour the mojo marinade over it. Cover the bowl or container and refrigerate the pork for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight.

Once the pork has been marinated, it is time to roast it. To roast the pork, you will need:

• A roasting pan
• A wire rack

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the pork on the wire rack in the roasting pan and roast for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is cooked through.

Once the pork is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Mojo pork can be served on its own, or it can be used as a filling for sandwiches or tacos.

Tips for Making Mojo Pork

Here are a few tips for making mojo pork:

• Use a good quality pork shoulder. The pork shoulder is a flavorful and inexpensive cut of meat that is perfect for slow-roasting.
• Marinate the pork for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight. This will give the mojo marinade time to penetrate the meat and infuse it with flavor.
• Roast the pork at a low temperature. This will help to prevent the pork from drying out.
• Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Variations on Mojo Pork

There are many different variations on mojo pork. Some common variations include:

• Adding other spices to the mojo marinade, such as paprika, chili powder, or cumin.
• Using different types of citrus juice in the mojo marinade, such as grapefruit juice or lemon juice.
• Marinating the pork in the mojo marinade for longer periods of time.
• Roasting the pork at different temperatures.
• Serving the mojo pork with different sides, such as rice, beans, or plantains.

Mojo pork is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make, and it can be tailored to your own taste preferences. So next time you are looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal, give mojo pork a try.