Cuban cuisine is known for its bold flavors and comforting dishes, and one of the standout dishes we can’t help but love is Cuban Lechon Asado.
This traditional Cuban roast pork is marinated in a zesty mixture of citrus, garlic, and spices, making it a must-try for anyone wanting to bring some authentic Caribbean flavor into their home.
We’ve gathered our favorite tips and techniques for preparing Lechon Asado, inspired by our travels and cooking classes in Cuba.
From selecting the right cut of pork to achieving that perfect crispy skin, we are excited to share how to create this flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends.
Join us as we explore the rich history and cultural significance of Lechon Asado in Cuban traditions. Not only will you learn how to make it, but you’ll also discover why this dish is a centerpiece of celebrations and gatherings in Cuba. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cuban Lechon Asado Recipe
We absolutely adore this Cuban Lechon Asado recipe for several reasons.
First, the flavors are simply amazing. The combination of garlic, citrus, and spices creates a marinade that infuses the pork with depth and richness. It’s a taste we love to savor.
The cooking process is an experience in itself. Watching the pork slow roast gives us the chance to enjoy the delicious aromas filling our kitchen. It’s like a warm hug for the senses.
Another reason we love this recipe is its versatility. Lechon Asado is perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or just a cozy dinner at home. It never fails to impress our guests!
Preparation is straightforward, too. Even if we’re not seasoned chefs, the step-by-step process makes it easy to follow. We feel accomplished every time we serve this dish.
And let’s not forget how well it pairs with sides. We enjoy serving it with rice, black beans, or a refreshing salad. The balance of flavors enhances the whole meal.
Lastly, making Lechon Asado connects us to Cuban culture. Each bite takes us back to our travels and inspires us to create memories around the table.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Cuban Lechón Asado is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and culture.
The secret lies in the marinade. We use ingredients like garlic, sour orange, and oregano. This blend creates a tangy, rich flavor that makes the pork special.
Another highlight is the cooking method. Slow-roasting allows the meat to become incredibly tender. The skin turns crispy, adding a delightful texture.
This recipe is often made for festivals and family gatherings in Cuba. It brings people together to enjoy a traditional feast.
Enjoying Lechón Asado connects us to the vibrant Cuban heritage. Each bite tells a story of love for food and community.
Let’s not forget the versatility! We love serving it in various ways, such as:
- With rice and beans
- In sandwiches
- As a taco topping
This dish showcases Cuban cuisine‘s rich flavors and traditions. It invites everyone to share in a joyful culinary experience.
Each time we make it, we feel like we’re bringing a piece of Cuba to our table. The love and care that go into preparing this dish make it genuinely special.
Cooking Equipment Needed
To make delicious Cuban Lechon Asado, having the right equipment is key. Here’s what we recommend:
- Roasting Pan: A sturdy roasting pan helps hold the pork and catch all the juices. Make sure it’s large enough for your roast.
- Meat Thermometer: This is essential for ensuring the pork is cooked to the right temperature. We aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for safety and flavor.
- Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is important for cutting the pork after it’s cooked. It makes serving much easier.
- Basting Brush: Use this to apply the marinade all over the pork as it cooks, ensuring great flavor.
- Aluminum Foil: This helps cover the pork to keep it moist during cooking and can be used to tent the roast toward the end.
- Cutting Board: A large cutting board makes it easy to slice and serve the tender pork.
Having the right tools makes the whole cooking process smoother. We can’t wait to enjoy this flavorful dish!
Cooking Instructions
To make Cuban Lechón Asado, we start with the marinade. Here’s what you need to do:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- Squeeze the juice from an orange, a lime, and a lemon.
- Crush or finely chop cloves of garlic.
- Thinly slice an onion.
- Combine all ingredients with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
- Marinate the Pork:
- Place your pork (preferably a whole shoulder or leg) in a large resealable bag.
- Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it covers the meat completely.
- Seal the bag and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Before cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cook the Pork:
- Remove the pork from the marinade and place it in a roasting pan, skin side up.
- Pour any leftover marinade around the pork in the pan.
- Roast for 30 minutes at 425°F, then lower the temperature to 325°F (165°C).
- Check the Temperature:
- Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This can take about 4 to 6 hours depending on the size of the pork.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the pork rest for about 20 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your delicious Cuban meal!
Cooking Tips
When making Cuban Lechon Asado, we have a few tips to help you get it just right.
1. Choose the Right Cut
We recommend using a fresh ham or pork shoulder roast for the best flavor and texture.
2. Season Generously
Be sure to marinate the pork with a good amount of garlic, salt, and black pepper. The marinade helps infuse flavor throughout the meat.
3. Score the Skin
Slicing slits into the pork skin allows the marinade to penetrate better. This also helps achieve that crispy skin we all love.
4. Cooking Time
A good rule of thumb is to roast it for about 30 minutes per pound.
For example:
- 6-pound roast: about 3 hours
- 8-pound roast: about 4 hours
5. Monitor Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 145 degrees F for safe and fully cooked meat.
6. Slow and Steady
Cook the pork slowly to keep it tender and juicy.
If you can, start at a high temperature for a short time, then reduce it for the rest of the cooking.
7. Let It Rest
After cooking, let the pork rest for about 15-30 minutes. This helps retain the juices when you slice it.
Ingredients Needed for the Cuban Lechon Asado Recipe
Garlic, peeled
Salt
Black peppercorns
Onion powder
Oregano
Cumin
Olive oi
Mojo marinade
Pork shoulder
Instructions For Preparing the Cuban Lechon Asado Recipe
Preparing the Marinade
Using a mortar and pestle, mash the garlic, salt, peppercorns, onion, oregano, cumin, and olive oil into a paste. Set aside to use with the mojo marinade.
Marinating the Pork
Place the pork shoulder in a roasting pan, with or without a rack. Gently separate the thick pork skin from the meat using a sharp knife, leaving it attached to flap backward. Pierce the exposed meat and pour the mojo marinade over it, keeping the skin flipped back. Evenly rub the garlic paste over the pork, then flip the skin back down, ensuring it stays dry. Cover with foil and refrigerate for 2–3 hours or overnight for best results.
Roasting the Pork
Preheat the oven to 375ºF. Remove the pork from the fridge and let it come to room temperature. Pat the skin dry with a paper towel for maximum crispiness. Keep the marinade in the pan and the garlic paste on the pork. Lightly spray aluminum foil with nonstick spray and cover the pork and roasting pan to prevent sticking while roasting.
Serving
Serve with Arroz Congri. A flavorful Cuban dish of white rice and black beans.
FAQs For the Cuban Lechon Asado Recipe
Question: What ingredients are needed for a Cuban Lechon Asado Recipe?
A: A Cuban Lechon Asado recipe typically includes pork shoulder or pork leg, sour orange juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, and olive oil for marinating.
Question: How do I cook a Cuban Lechon Asado Recipe in the oven?
A: To cook a Cuban Lechon Asado recipe in the oven, marinate the pork overnight, place it in a roasting pan, and bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 4-5 hours until tender, basting occasionally.
Question: What is the best way to marinate a Cuban Lechon Asado Recipe?
A: The best way to marinate a Cuban Lechon Asado recipe is to coat the pork with a mixture of sour orange juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, and olive oil, then refrigerate it for at least 12 hours to absorb the flavors.
Question: Can I make a Cuban Lechon Asado Recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, a Cuban Lechon Asado recipe can be made in a slow cooker by marinating the pork and cooking it on low for 8-10 hours until it is tender and easy to shred.
Question: What is the best way to serve a Cuban Lechon Asado Recipe?
A: A Cuban Lechon Asado recipe is best served with rice, black beans, yuca, or plantains, and can also be used in sandwiches for a delicious Cuban-style meal.
Cuban Lechon Asado Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 head garlic peeled
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cups marinade mojo
- 8 lbs pork shoulder
Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
- Using a mortar and pestle, mash the garlic, salt, peppercorns, onion, oregano, cumin, and olive oil into a paste. Set aside to use with the mojo marinade.
Marinating the Pork
- Place the pork shoulder in a roasting pan, with or without a rack. Gently separate the thick pork skin from the meat using a sharp knife, leaving it attached to flap backward. Pierce the exposed meat and pour the mojo marinade over it, keeping the skin flipped back. Evenly rub the garlic paste over the pork, then flip the skin back down, ensuring it stays dry. Cover with foil and refrigerate for 2–3 hours or overnight for best results.
Roasting the Pork
- Preheat the oven to 375ºF. Remove the pork from the fridge and let it come to room temperature. Pat the skin dry with a paper towel for maximum crispiness. Keep the marinade in the pan and the garlic paste on the pork. Lightly spray aluminum foil with nonstick spray and cover the pork and roasting pan to prevent sticking while roasting.
Serving
- Serve with Arroz Congri. A flavorful Cuban dish of white rice and black beans.
Nutrition
1 comment
This roasted pork turned out absolutely amazing! The crispy, seasoned skin was full of flavor, and the meat was juicy and tender. The marinade soaked in perfectly, and every bite was packed with garlicky goodness. My guests kept raving about how tender it was and how much they loved the crispy bits!