Lechon Asado is a beloved Cuban dish featuring pork marinated in a flavorful mojo sauce and slow-roasted to perfection. This dish is perfect for special occasions and family gatherings. Here’s a detailed recipe to bring this delicious Cuban roast pork to your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Mojo Marinade:
- 1 cup sour orange juice (or a mix of 3/4 cup orange juice and 1/4 cup lime juice)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Pork:
- 4-5 lb pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparing the Mojo Marinade
- Make the Marinade:
- In a bowl, combine the sour orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and ground black pepper.
- Whisk together until well mixed.
Marinating the Pork
- Marinate the Pork:
- Place the pork shoulder or pork butt in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring it is well coated.
- Add the thinly sliced onion and bay leaves to the bag or dish.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for best results.
Cooking the Lechon Asado
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare the Pork for Roasting:
- Remove the pork from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
- Place the pork in a roasting pan, and arrange the onion slices and bay leaves around it.
- Reserve the marinade.
- Roast the Pork:
- Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and roast the pork in the preheated oven for about 4-5 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Baste the pork occasionally with the reserved marinade to keep it moist.
- Crisp the Pork (Optional):
- If you prefer a crispy exterior, remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of roasting.
Serving
- Rest the Pork:
- Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before shredding.
- Shred and Serve:
- Shred the pork using two forks, discarding any excess fat.
- Serve the Lechon Asado garnished with chopped fresh cilantro.
- Accompany with sides like rice, black beans, and fried plantains.
Variations and Tips
- Grilled Version: For a smoky flavor, cook the marinated pork on a grill over indirect heat.
- Citrus Marinade: Add a splash of grapefruit juice for a different citrus note in the marinade.
- Serving Options: Serve the shredded pork in sandwiches with crusty bread for a Cuban-style pork sandwich.
Nutritional Benefits
Lechon Asado is a protein-rich dish that provides essential vitamins and minerals from the pork and the citrus marinade. It’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that can be part of a balanced diet.
Embracing Tradition
Lechon Asado is a staple in Cuban cuisine, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings. Making this dish at home allows you to experience the rich flavors of Cuba and enjoy a comforting and delicious meal.
Try this authentic Lechon Asado recipe and savor the savory, citrusy flavors of this traditional Cuban roast pork. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.