When it comes to iconic Cuban dishes, few can rival the mouthwatering appeal of Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork (Lechon Asado). Picture this: tender pork shoulder slow-roasted to perfection, infused with a vibrant mojo criollo marinade bursting with garlic, citrus, and aromatic spices. The result? Crispy, caramelized edges giving way to juicy, flavor-packed meat that falls apart at the touch of a fork.
Whether you’re planning a festive Nochebuena feast, a summer cookout, or simply craving authentic Caribbean flavors, this Cuban mojo pork recipe promises to deliver an unforgettable culinary experience.
Why This Cuban Lechon Asado Will Become Your New Favorite
✅ Explosion of Flavors – The garlicky citrus marinade penetrates deep into every fiber of the meat.
✅ Crowd-Pleasing Perfection – Generous portions ensure everyone gets their fill.
✅ Textural Harmony – Slow roasting creates a crispy exterior while maintaining succulent tenderness inside.
✅ Versatile Serving Options – Shine as a centerpiece or transform leftovers into amazing sandwiches.
The Essence of Cuban Mojo Pork (Lechon Asado)
At its core, Lechon Asado represents the heart of Cuban cuisine. Traditionally prepared using a whole pig or pork shoulder, its magic lies in the mojo criollo marinade featuring:
- Pungent Garlic – The undisputed star that forms the flavor foundation
- Zesty Citrus – Typically sour orange, though a lime-orange blend works beautifully
- Aromatic Spices – Cumin and oregano add warm, earthy notes
- Quality Olive Oil – Ensures perfect browning while locking in moisture
After marinating overnight, the pork undergoes slow roasting until the skin turns golden and crackling while the meat becomes fork-tender.
Gathering Your Ingredients for Authentic Flavor
For the Signature Mojo Marinade:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Garlic | 10-12 cloves | Bold, aromatic base |
| Sour Orange Juice | 1 cup | Tangy Caribbean brightness |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | ½ cup | Richness & crispiness |
| Ground Cumin | 1 tbsp | Earthy warmth |
| Dried Oregano | 1 tbsp | Herbaceous complexity |
For the Pork:
- 1 (5-7 lb) bone-in pork shoulder – The ideal cut for slow roasting
- 1 large onion, sliced – Adds sweetness during roasting
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Lechon Asado
1. Crafting the Mojo Marinade
First, combine all marinade ingredients in a blender until smooth. For best results:
- Pro Tip: If sour oranges are unavailable, substitute with equal parts orange and lime juice
- Alternative: Add a splash of bitter orange juice for authentic depth
2. Marinating for Maximum Flavor
Next, prepare the pork by:
- Patting the shoulder dry and making shallow cuts all over
- Massaging ¾ of the mojo into every crevice
- Refrigerating overnight (12-24 hours) for complete flavor infusion
3. The Roasting Process
When ready to cook:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C)
- Create a bed of sliced onions in your roasting pan
- Place marinated pork on top, fat side up
- Roast for 3.5-4.5 hours, basting occasionally
- For perfect crackling, finish at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes
4. Resting and Serving
Finally:
- Allow the pork to rest 20-30 minutes before carving
- Reserve pan juices for drizzling
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Lechon Asado
To create an authentic Cuban feast, consider these traditional accompaniments:
🍚 Moros y Cristianos – The classic black beans and rice combination
🥑 Tostones – Twice-fried green plantains for crispy contrast
🥗 Yuca con Mojo – Tender cassava with garlic sauce
🥪 Next-Day Sandwiches – Layer leftovers with ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles
Presentation Tip: Serve with small bowls of extra mojo sauce for dipping!
Pro Techniques for Outstanding Results
To elevate your lechon asado to restaurant quality:
🔥 Crispy Skin Secret: After marinating, pat the skin completely dry before roasting
🍊 Citrus Boost: Add orange zest to the marinade for enhanced aroma
⏳ Patience Pays: Don’t rush the marinating process – 24 hours minimum
🌡 Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer (195°F ideal for shredding)
Final Thoughts on This Cuban Classic
This Citrusy and Garlicky Roasted Cuban Mojo Pork (Lechon Asado) isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration of vibrant Caribbean flavors. Perfect for special occasions yet simple enough for weekend cooking, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Craving more Cuban flavors? Explore our [Authentic Cuban Picadillo] or [Cuban-Style Grilled Chicken] recipes next!
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I use boneless pork shoulder?
While bone-in yields better flavor, boneless works (reduce cooking time by 30 minutes)
❓ How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months
❓ Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook on low for 8 hours, then broil for crispiness
Now we’d love to hear from you! Have you tried making lechon asado? Share your experience and photos with us—we’re always excited to see your culinary creations! 🇨🇺✨