Cuban Mojo Pork Shoulder with Black Beans
Tender, tangy, and bursting with citrusy mojo flavor, this Cuban classic is comfort food at its finest, served alongside creamy black beans.
Total: 200 minPrep: 20 minCook: 180 minServes 6Difficulty: Medium⭐ 4.8 (120+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 3 pounds pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Steps
- 1 In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the mojo marinade.
- 2 Add the pork to the marinade, ensuring it's well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- 3 In a large pot or Dutch oven, sear the marinated pork chunks until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- 4 In the same pot, sauté onion and bell pepper until softened.
- 5 Return the pork to the pot along with any accumulated juices. Add the black beans and chicken broth.
- 6 Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 3 hours or until pork is fork-tender.
- 7 Serve the pork over black beans, spooning some of the sauce from the pot over the top.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Whisk
Variations
- Add a splash of vinegar to the marinade for extra tang.
- Incorporate sweet plantains for a traditional Cuban side.
Substitutions
- Use chicken thighs instead of pork shoulder for a lighter option.
- Substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Pairings
- Cuban bread or tostones
- A light and fruity white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
Nutrition
Calories:
450 kcal
Fat:
20g fat
Carbs:
20g carbohydrates
Protein:
35g protein
Fiber:
6g fiber
Sugar:
5g sugar
Sodium:
600mg sodium
Tips
- For deeper flavor, cook the pork low and slow in a 300°F oven after browning.
- This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm white rice and a side of avocado slices.
- Pair with a crisp, refreshing Cuban mojito.
FAQ
Can I use dried black beans instead?
Yes, soak and cook dried black beans according to package instructions before adding to the dish.