The aroma of Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork wafts through the air, making your mouth water. Picture succulent, tender pork marinated in a zesty citrus garlic blend, slow-cooked to perfection. It’s like a fiesta for your taste buds that you won’t want to miss.
Just thinking about this dish brings back memories of family gatherings where we would huddle around the table, savoring every last bite. This Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork is perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations, promising an unforgettable flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork
- This incredible Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! Their smiles and satisfied groans were all the encouragement I needed to make it again.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pork Shoulder: A good amount of marbling makes it juicy and tender once cooked low and slow.
Fresh Garlic: Use plenty of fresh cloves for that robust flavor; pre-minced won’t cut it here.
Fresh Citrus Juice: Go for a mix of orange and lime juice for a tangy zing that brightens up the meat.
Oregano: Dried or fresh works; it adds an aromatic herbiness that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Cumin: A must-have spice that adds warmth and depth to the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to help with browning and enhance the flavors in your marinade.
For the Sauce:
Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and flavor; low-sodium is best so you can control the saltiness.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other distinct flavors in this dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork
Prepare your slow cooker: Set it on low heat while you gather your ingredients. This ensures everything stays warm and ready when you begin cooking.
Marinate the pork: In a large bowl, combine garlic, citrus juice, oregano, cumin, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The mixture should smell heavenly by now.
Coat the pork shoulder: Rub this magical marinade all over the pork shoulder thoroughly. Don’t skimp; get into every nook and cranny!
Sear the meat: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a bit of oil and sear each side of the pork for about 3-4 minutes until browned.
Transfer to slow cooker: Place your beautifully seared pork into the slow cooker. Pour any leftover marinade over it along with chicken broth for added moisture.
Cook low and slow: Cover and let cook on low for 8 hours or until fork-tender. You’ll know it’s done when even thinking about cutting into it makes you drool!
You Must Know About Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork
- This showstopping Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the pork overnight to absorb all those magical Cuban flavors. Then sear it in a pan to lock in the juices before adding it to your slow cooker. This method ensures every bite is juicy and bursting with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pork for chicken or beef if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also play around with spices—try adding a pinch of cumin or some fresh cilantro for a unique twist that reflects your personal taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat to preserve the original flavors and textures. A splash of broth can help revive the dish if it’s gotten a bit dry.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork
- This professional-quality Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
The first time I made Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They even asked me if I had taken a secret cooking class because it tasted so good—it felt like winning an Oscar in my own kitchen!
FAQ
What makes Cuban mojo sauce special?
Cuban mojo sauce is a vibrant blend of garlic, citrus juice, herbs, and spices that infuses meat with zesty flavor. This harmonious combination creates a bright taste profile that’s both refreshing and tangy, making it perfect for slow-cooked dishes.
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Absolutely! While shoulder is traditional for its fat content and tenderness, you can use loin or ribs if you prefer. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly; lean cuts may cook faster than shoulder.
How long should I cook the pork in a slow cooker?
For tender, shreddable results, cook your pork on low for 8 hours or high for about 4-5 hours. The longer cooking time allows collagen in tougher cuts to break down beautifully.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! For a vegetarian spin on Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork, replace meat with jackfruit or portobello mushrooms marinated in mojo sauce. Cook just as you would with pork to ensure deep flavor absorption.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork
Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork is more than just a meal—it’s an experience bursting with flavor and warmth! By mastering key techniques like marinating and searing, you elevate this dish into something spectacular. Remember to add your own flair with ingredient swaps as desired. Enjoy every succulent bite while sharing laughter around the table!
Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork
Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork is a flavor-packed dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Havana. This tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder is marinated in a zesty citrus-garlic blend, resulting in a succulent meal that’s perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings. With its aromatic blend of spices and fresh ingredients, this recipe is not only easy to make but also an impressive centerpiece for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder
- 8 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your slow cooker by setting it on low heat.
- In a large bowl, mix garlic, orange juice, lime juice, oregano, cumin, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the marinade all over the pork shoulder.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear each side of the pork for 3-4 minutes until browned.
- Place the seared pork in the slow cooker and pour any leftover marinade and chicken broth over it.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until fork-tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Marinate the pork overnight for enhanced flavor. For variations, substitute pork with chicken or beef; adjust cooking time as necessary. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
