Savory Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork That Will Wow Your Guests

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

The moment I opened my fridge and caught a whiff of citrus mingling with garlic, I was transported to the vibrant streets of Havana. That was the day I discovered Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork, a dish that effortlessly combines zesty flavors with a comforting heartiness that makes it perfect for any gathering. Whether you re hosting a festive dinner or simply craving some home-cooked goodness, this recipe promises to impress without demanding hours of your time.

With just a few simple ingredients like fresh orange juice, aromatic herbs, and a succulent pork shoulder, you ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a mouthwatering meal that tastes like it took all day to prepare. Let s embrace flavor and joy in the kitchen as we dive into this delightful culinary journey. Ready to turn a simple cut of meat into a star-studded entrée? Let s get started!

Why is Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork a Must-Try?

Irresistible flavors: The vibrant combination of citrus, garlic, and herbs infuses the pork with a depth that tantalizes your taste buds.
Time-saving: Prep takes just 10 minutes then let the oven do the work while you relax!
Impressive presentation: Your guests will be wowed by the beautiful roast and aroma as it fills your home.
Perfect for gatherings: Whether it s a casual dinner or a festive celebration, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with rice, beans, or fresh tortillas for a delightful meal.
This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, so why not explore more flavor-packed options like Cuban grilled corn?

Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork Ingredients

Get ready to create a flavorful feast with these key ingredients!

For the Marinade

• Extra-virgin olive oil provides richness and depth to the flavor.
• Orange zest adds an aromatic and bright citrus note.
• Fresh orange juice infuses the pork with sweet-tart citrus goodness, enhancing the Cuban roasted mojo pork experience.
• Fresh lime juice balances the sweetness of the oranges with its tang.
• Cilantro, finely chopped offers a fresh, earthy flavor that complements the citrus.
• Mint leaves, finely chopped introduces a cool note that brightens the marinade.
• Garlic cloves, minced lends a savory punch that permeates the pork.
• Minced oregano brings an herby aroma that ties all the flavors together.
• Dried oregano enhances the herbal profile with a more robust flavor.
• Ground cumin adds warmth and depth, making every bite a delight.
• Kosher salt and pepper essential for seasoning, elevating the dish s overall taste.

For the Pork

• Boneless pork shoulder the star of the show; its richness makes it perfect for this succulent roast.

How to Make Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork

1. Prepare the Marinade: If using a food processor, add the orange juice, cilantro, mint, and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped. Combine this with the olive oil, zest, lime juice, oregano, and cumin in a ziplock bag.

2. Mix by Hand: If forgoing a food processor, simply mix the olive oil, orange zest, orange juice, lime juice, chopped cilantro, chopped mint, minced garlic, oregano, and cumin in a large ziplock bag. Shake to combine before adding the pork shoulder.

3. Marinate: Seal the bag and place it in a baking dish, refrigerating overnight or for at least a few hours. This allows the flavors to seep into the pork.

4. Preheat Oven: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425 °F (220 °C). Set a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet to catch drippings during roasting.

5. Season the Pork: Remove the pork from the marinade, discarding the marinade afterward. Generously season the pork with kosher salt and pepper, ensuring every side is coated well.

6. Roast Initially: Place the pork on the rack in the baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes until it s lightly browned and fragrant.

7. Lower Oven Temperature: After the initial roast, reduce the oven temperature to 375 °F (190 °C) and continue roasting for another 1 hour and 20-30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer registers 160 °F (71 °C).

8. Rest the Meat: Once cooked, transfer the pork to a cutting board, covering it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes; this helps the juices redistribute.

9. Carve and Serve: Carefully carve the pork against the grain into slices and serve on a platter, ready to be enjoyed!

Optional: Serve with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork

Fridge: Store leftover Cuban roasted mojo pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the meat juicy and flavorful.

Freezer: Freeze the pork in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a 350 °F (175 °C) oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This helps maintain the tender texture.

Slicing Tips: For best results, slice the pork against the grain after reheating to ensure each bite is tender and succulent.

Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!

• Citrus Blend: Substitute lemon juice for half of the lime juice for added brightness. The lemon lends a tangy twist that complements the sweetness of the oranges beautifully.

• Herb Swap: Replace cilantro with parsley for a milder flavor. This simple change can make the dish more approachable for those who find cilantro too strong.

• Heat It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño to the marinade for a spicy kick. This addition brings excitement to each bite, perfect for those who love a bit of heat!

• Pork Alternatives: Use chicken thighs instead of pork for a lighter version. The marinade still works wonders on chicken, making it just as flavorful while reducing the fat content.

• Vegetarian Delight: For a veggie-friendly version, marinate portobello mushrooms in the same mojo and grill them. You ll have a smoky and savory delight that even meat-lovers will enjoy.

• Sweet and Savory: Add a tablespoon of honey to the marinade for a touch of sweetness. This balances the tanginess and gives an addictive glaze to the roasted meat.

• Smoken Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the seasoning. The smoky undertones will transport your taste buds to the Caribbean with each tender bite.

• Tropical Twist: Mix in some diced pineapple or mango to the marinade for a fruity flair. The sweetness of the fruit adds another layer of flavor that s refreshingly delightful.

Make Ahead Options

These Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork preparations are a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can marinate the pork shoulder up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to soak up all those vibrant flavors. Just mix the marinade ingredients and coat the pork in a ziplock bag, then refrigerate the bag until you re ready to roast. Additionally, you can prepare the marinade up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it s time to cook, all you need to do is take the marinated pork out, discard the marinade, season, and roast as directed. This way, you ll have a delicious meal with minimal effort, just as if you had made it from scratch that day!

Expert Tips for Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork

• Marinate Wisely: Allow the pork to marinate overnight for the best flavor infusion. Don t skip this step; it s crucial for the Cuban roasted mojo pork experience.

• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the internal temperature while roasting. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160 °F without drying out.

• Resting Time: Let the pork rest after cooking for at least 20 minutes. This helps retain moisture and ensures a juicier result.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Invest in fresh citrus and herbs. The quality of your ingredients directly affects the flavor of your Cuban roasted mojo pork.

• Experiment with Sides: Don t hesitate to get creative! Pair with different sides like black beans, fried plantains, or a fresh salad to elevate your meal.

What to Serve with Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork?

To create a truly unforgettable meal, consider complementing the rich flavors of this succulent pork with thoughtful side dishes.

• Coconut Rice: The creamy sweetness balances the savory pork, making each bite feel like a tropical escape. The light fragrance will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table.
• Black Beans: A classic pairing, their hearty texture and mild flavors enhance the dish while providing a nutritional boost. Serve them warm, topped with a squeeze of lime for added zest.
• Fried Plantains: Crispy and sweet, these golden delights add a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, perfectly complementing the citrus notes of the pork. They are irresistible and perfect for sharing!
• Mango Salsa: The fresh, fruity notes of a sweet mango salsa bring brightness and a refreshing crunch that beautifully offsets the richness of the roast. This vibrant option awakens the palate and adds a pop of color to your plate.
• Cilantro Lime Dressing: Drizzling a zesty cilantro lime dressing over a simple salad brightens the whole meal with fresh herbaceous notes, tying all the flavors together seamlessly.
• Classic Mojito: To elevate your dining experience further, serve a refreshing mojito. The minty and zesty flavors harmonize wonderfully with the pork, creating a cohesive Cuban feast.
• Chilled Avocado Soup: Smooth and creamy, this cool soup presents a rich contrast to the succulent pork. Its refreshing qualities will have your guests coming back for more.
• Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, roasted corn brings a crunchy, savory component to the meal. Adding a pat of herb-infused butter will enhance its flavor and create a delightful side.
• Key Lime Pie: A tangy and sweet dessert like key lime pie wraps up the meal perfectly, inviting everyone to cleanse their palate and indulge in a finale as vibrant as the main dish.

Cuban Roasted Mojo Pork Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pork shoulder for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for a boneless pork shoulder with a good amount of marbling this fat will help keep the meat tender and juicy during cooking. Avoid any cuts with large dark spots or discoloration, as they could indicate spoilage. If possible, ask your butcher for their recommendation.

How should I store leftover Cuban roasted mojo pork?
Very simple! Place your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the pork for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers, and label them with the date so you know what you have on hand!

Can I freeze Cuban roasted mojo pork? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze, after the pork has cooled to room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it inside an airtight freezer bag or container. This layered protection helps prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you re ready to enjoy it again.

What should I do if the pork is tough after cooking?
If your Cuban roasted mojo pork turns out tough, it might not have cooked long enough. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 160 °F (71 °C). The after-resting phase is essential too; if the meat s fibers haven t had time to relax, it can be chewy. If you find yourself in this situation, you can also slice the pork thinly this can make tougher cuts more enjoyable!

Is Cuban roasted mojo pork safe for pets? Can I serve it to friends with dietary restrictions?
It s best to avoid sharing this dish with pets, especially due to the garlic and high-fat content that may not sit well with them. If you have friends with dietary restrictions, this dish is dairy-free, which is fantastic! However, be mindful of allergies to citrus or herbs in the marinade. You can always prepare a separate, simple roasted pork with just salt and pepper and no marinade as an alternative.

Should I adjust the spices for a different flavor profile specifically?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky kick. Adding chili flakes can introduce a bit of heat for those spice enthusiasts at your table. Just remember to taste as you go!