Photo from barbecuebible.com

Lechon Asado, or Cuban Roast Pork, is a beloved dish traditionally prepared for special occasions like Christmas and New Year's Eve. This mouthwatering recipe features pork marinated in a tangy, flavorful citrus-based sauce known as "mojo," then slow-roasted until the meat is tender and juicy. It’s a centerpiece of Cuban cuisine, offering a perfect balance of smoky, citrusy, and savory flavors.

Ingredients

5 lbs (2.27 kg) pork shoulder or pork butt, bone-in 1 cup (240 ml) sour orange juice (or a mix of orange and lime juice)

1/2 cup (120 ml) olive oil

10 garlic cloves, minced

2 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp dried oregano

1 large onion, thinly sliced

1 tbsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup (60 ml) white vinegar

1/4 cup (60 ml) white wine (optional)

Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Mojo Marinade: In a blender or bowl, combine the sour orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and white vinegar. Blend or whisk until the mixture is smooth. This is your mojo marinade.

Marinate the Pork: Place the pork shoulder in a large, shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring it's well-coated. Add thinly sliced onions on top of the pork. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

Roast the Pork: Remove the pork from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting. Place the pork in a roasting pan, fat side up. Pour the reserved marinade with onions over the pork and cover the pan with foil. Roast for 4-5 hours, basting occasionally with the pan juices, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) and is tender.

Crisp the Skin (Optional): To achieve crispy skin, remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of roasting and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Let the skin brown and crisp up.

Rest and Shred: Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. Using two forks, shred the meat, discarding any excess fat. Mix the meat with the remaining pan juices for extra flavor.

Serving

Lechon Asado is typically served with Cuban rice and beans, yuca with mojo, or fried plantains. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a touch of color and freshness. It's a perfect dish for family gatherings and celebrations.

Lechon Asado is a quintessential Cuban dish that brings together citrusy mojo and tender roasted pork in a flavorful harmony. With its crispy skin and juicy, slow-roasted meat, it’s a dish that will transport you straight to the heart of Cuban cuisine. Whether it’s for a festive occasion or a weekend feast, this recipe is sure to impress.