Cuban Pork Roast Recipe - Mouth-watering Flavors from the Caribbean Island

Cuban Pork Roast

Cuban Pork Roast Recipe - Mouth-watering Flavors from the Caribbean Island
Region / culture: Caribbean, Cuba | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Cuban Pork Roast
Cuban Pork Roast

Cuban Pork Roast is a flavorful and juicy dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner. The combination of citrus juices, garlic, and spices creates a delicious marinade that infuses the pork with amazing flavors.

History

Cuban Pork Roast is a traditional Cuban dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The marinade used in this recipe is a classic Cuban combination of citrus juices, garlic, cumin, and herbs. This dish is often served at family gatherings and celebrations in Cuba.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Combine the first 7 ingredients and blend.
  2. Pour HALF of the marinade into a large resealable plastic bag, then add the roast and refrigerate for 2 hours.
  3. Refrigerate the remaining marinade.
  4. Place the roast in a 13x9 baking dish and pour the reserved marinade over it.
  5. Cover the dish and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 1 hour. Then, uncover and baste the roast with the pan drippings.
  6. Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 160°F (71°C).
  7. Discard the bay leaves.
  8. Allow the roast to stand for 15 minutes before slicing.

Variations

  • Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the marinade for extra flavor.
  • Use pork shoulder or pork butt instead of pork loin for a more tender and flavorful roast.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the pork for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- Basting the roast with the pan drippings helps to keep it moist and flavorful.

- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat juicy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cuban Pork Roast with rice, black beans, and fried plantains for a traditional Cuban meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use lemon juice instead of lime juice.

- You can use dried cilantro instead of fresh cilantro.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the pork roast overnight for even more flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the pork roast and arrange it on a platter with fresh herbs and citrus slices for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Cuban Pork Roast with a side of Cuban black beans and rice for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 250 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 8 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 30 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Cuban Pork Roast is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic.

Summary

Cuban Pork Roast is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and vitamins. It is a great option for a balanced meal.

Summary

Cuban Pork Roast is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner. The citrus marinade infuses the pork with amazing flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser. Serve with traditional Cuban sides for a complete meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Cuban Pork Roast. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a trip to Cuba with my husband. We had spent weeks exploring the vibrant culture and indulging in the delicious food that the island had to offer. One particular dish that captured my heart was the succulent and flavorful Cuban Pork Roast.

I had befriended a local woman, Maria, who graciously invited me into her home to watch her prepare this traditional dish. As I watched her expertly season the pork with a blend of spices and citrus juices, I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. Maria saw my eagerness and welcomed me into her kitchen, sharing her family recipe with me.

The first step in making the Cuban Pork Roast was to marinate the pork overnight in a mixture of garlic, cumin, oregano, orange juice, and lime juice. The citrus juices tenderized the meat while the spices infused it with a rich and complex flavor. The next day, I carefully placed the marinated pork into the oven to slow roast, allowing the meat to become tender and juicy.

As the pork roasted, I prepared a side of black beans and rice, a staple in Cuban cuisine. I also whipped up a simple yet delicious mango salsa to accompany the pork, adding a burst of freshness and sweetness to balance out the savory flavors.

When the Cuban Pork Roast was finally ready, I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of my labor. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and as I sliced into the tender meat, I knew that I had successfully recreated the flavors of Cuba in my own home. The pork was melt-in-your-mouth tender, with a perfect balance of citrus and spice. Paired with the black beans and rice and the mango salsa, it was a meal that transported me back to the streets of Havana.

I served the Cuban Pork Roast to my family that evening, and their eyes lit up with delight as they took their first bite. My husband, who had fallen in love with Cuban cuisine during our trip, praised me for my culinary skills and asked for seconds. My children, who were usually picky eaters, devoured their plates and asked for the recipe. I knew then that this dish would become a beloved staple in our family's meal rotation.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my recipe for Cuban Pork Roast, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about its deliciousness. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that warm summer day in Cuba, watching Maria work her magic in the kitchen.

As I grow older, I find comfort in knowing that I have passed down this cherished recipe to my children and grandchildren. I hope that they will continue to make the Cuban Pork Roast for generations to come, sharing the flavors of Cuba with their own families and creating memories of their own. And as I sit down to enjoy a plate of this delicious dish, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and people who have shaped my love for cooking and brought me the joy of discovering new and exciting recipes.

Categories

| Caribbean Meat Dishes | Caribbean Recipes | Cuban Recipes | Lime Juice Recipes | Lime Recipes | Orange Juice Recipes | Pork Recipes |

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