Cuban Mojo Pork, also known as Lechon Asado, is a beloved dish in Cuban cuisine made with pork shoulder marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juice, garlic, and spices. Slowly roasted until tender and juicy, then finished with a crisp, golden exterior, this flavorful pork is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or turning a simple dinner into something extraordinary. Serve with traditional sides or use leftovers for sandwiches and tacos!

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder (Boston Butt)

• 1 cup fresh orange juice

• ½ cup fresh lime juice

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 10 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp dried oregano

• 2 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tbsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• Optional: chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a large bowl, mix orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.

2. Marinate the Pork:
   Place pork shoulder in a zip-top bag or deep bowl. Pour marinade over the pork and coat evenly. Seal and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.

3. Preheat Oven:
   Set oven to 300°F (150°C).

4. Roast the Pork:
   Transfer pork and marinade to a roasting pan. Cover tightly with foil. Roast for 4–5 hours or until fork-tender.

5. Crisp the Exterior:
   Remove foil and raise oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Roast uncovered for another 20–30 minutes to crisp the outside.

6. Rest and Serve:
   Let pork rest for 10–15 minutes. Shred or slice and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Nutrients (per serving, approx. based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 450 kcal

• Protein: ~38g

• Fat: ~30g

• Carbohydrates: ~4g

• Sugar: ~1g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sodium: ~1180mg

• Cholesterol: ~120mg

Cultural Significance and Historical Roots

Lechon Asado holds a place of honor in Cuban culture, especially during celebrations and family gatherings. Traditionally, whole pigs were roasted over an open flame for holidays such as Nochebuena (Christmas Eve), a ritual that symbolizes abundance and togetherness. Today, while whole-pig roasts are still part of major festivities, home cooks often opt for a more manageable pork shoulder, which delivers the same mouthwatering flavor on a smaller scale.

The mojo marinade itself reflects Cuba’s agricultural bounty—citrus fruits like oranges and limes are common in Cuban households and lend their bright acidity to many savory dishes. The heavy use of garlic, oregano, and cumin also speaks to the Spanish and Caribbean culinary traditions that heavily influence Cuban cooking.

Mojo Pork is more than just food—it’s a celebration of Cuba’s rich history, flavors, and hospitality.

What Makes Mojo Pork So Irresistible

The magic of Mojo Pork lies in the balance of tangy, savory, and aromatic components. The citrus juices—fresh orange and lime—tenderize the meat while adding a refreshing zing. Garlic is used generously, offering warmth and depth that’s never overpowering. Olive oil binds the flavors and keeps the meat juicy during the long, slow roast.

Spices like dried oregano and ground cumin introduce earthy and slightly smoky undertones, adding complexity to the dish. Salt and black pepper round out the seasoning, allowing the natural flavor of the pork to shine through.

When roasted low and slow, the pork becomes incredibly tender. Then, by increasing the oven temperature at the end of cooking, the outside crisps up to a beautiful golden brown, providing a contrast in texture that makes every bite satisfying.

An Ideal Centerpiece for Gatherings

Cuban Mojo Pork is made for sharing. Its rich aroma, impressive presentation, and crowd-pleasing flavor make it the perfect choice for family dinners, weekend barbecues, or festive holidays. A large pork shoulder can easily feed a group, and its affordability makes it a practical choice for entertaining.

You can serve Mojo Pork as a traditional roast with sides like black beans, rice, plantains, and yuca con mojo. Alternatively, use it as a filling for tacos, sliders, or the famous Cuban sandwich—stacked with ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread, then pressed until hot and crispy.

Because of its make-ahead potential and reheating ease, this dish also works wonderfully for meal prepping or buffet-style events. Just shred the pork after cooking and serve it with warmed tortillas or buns for a self-serve station guests will love.

Flavor Versatility and Variations

While the traditional mojo marinade is already packed with flavor, it also lends itself well to personalization. Some cooks add additional herbs like fresh cilantro or parsley to the marinade for a greener, brighter taste. Others include crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a bit of heat.

If you prefer a sweeter note, adding a splash of pineapple juice or a touch of honey to the marinade can create a sweet-savory balance that’s especially good when serving the pork with tropical salsas or grilled fruit.

For grilling enthusiasts, Mojo Pork can also be cooked over charcoal or wood for a smoky flavor that enhances its rustic charm. Simply marinate the pork as directed, then slow-cook on a grill using indirect heat. Finish with a high-heat sear for that signature crust.

Nutrition and Comfort in Every Bite

Mojo Pork is a protein-rich dish that satisfies both hunger and flavor cravings. Pork shoulder, while a fattier cut, becomes incredibly tender when slow-roasted and provides long-lasting energy. The fat content contributes to the meat’s succulence and flavor, especially when balanced with acidic components like citrus juice.

The use of natural ingredients—fresh juice, herbs, garlic, and spices—keeps the dish grounded in whole food cooking. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be part of paleo or low-carb meal plans when paired with roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice.

And while the sodium content can be high due to seasoning, it can be adjusted easily to suit dietary preferences by moderating the salt in the marinade or serving the pork with fresh, hydrating sides like cucumber salad or citrus slaw.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Mojo Pork

To get the most flavor from your Mojo Pork, marinate it for at least 8 hours—overnight is even better. The longer the pork rests in the mojo, the more deeply the flavors will penetrate.

Always allow the pork to come to room temperature before roasting. This ensures even cooking and reduces overall roasting time. During the low and slow roasting phase, keep the pork tightly covered to retain moisture. Use a roasting pan with high sides to prevent the juices from overflowing.

When it’s time to crisp the exterior, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature. This final step transforms the soft, slow-cooked pork into something golden, glistening, and irresistibly aromatic.

Resting the pork after roasting is crucial. Give it at least 10–15 minutes to redistribute juices before slicing or shredding. This simple pause results in meat that’s juicier and easier to carve.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate the Experience

While Mojo Pork is a showstopper on its own, serving it with the right accompaniments enhances the experience. Traditional Cuban sides include congri (black beans and rice), sweet fried plantains, and yuca con mojo—cassava root tossed with garlic and citrus sauce. These side dishes mirror the bold flavors of the pork and provide satisfying balance.

For a fresh contrast, add a crisp cabbage slaw with lime vinaigrette, or serve the pork over a bed of greens with avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, and grilled corn for a hearty salad.

Leftovers can be transformed into tacos, quesadillas, rice bowls, or even breakfast hash. The versatility of Mojo Pork means you’ll never be stuck with a boring repeat meal—it keeps giving long after the first serving.

Conclusion

Cuban Mojo Pork (Lechon Asado) is a celebration of flavor, tradition, and shared meals. Its vibrant marinade, tender texture, and irresistible aroma make it one of the most iconic dishes in Cuban cuisine and a favorite across cultures. From the citrus-kissed interior to the crisp, caramelized crust, every bite is packed with flavor that tells a story of heritage and passion.

Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast, a casual weekend dinner, or a new culinary adventure, Mojo Pork delivers on all fronts. It’s simple yet impressive, rustic yet elegant, and universally loved. With its bold personality and comforting heart, this dish is sure to become a staple at your table—bringing people together over a meal that’s as flavorful as it is memorable.