Experience the mouthwatering flavors of Cuba with this succulent Lechón Asado recipe. Also known as Cuban Roast Pork, this dish features a marinated and slow-roasted pork shoulder, seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices and tangy citrus juices. The result is tender and flavorful meat with a crispy, caramelized skin. A centerpiece of Cuban celebrations and gatherings, Lechón Asado captures the essence of Cuban cuisine and brings the vibrant spirit of the island to your table.

LECHÓN ASADO (CUBAN ROAST PORK)

DIFFICULTY: MODERATE


GALLERY                                                                                                                                                                  

INGREDIENTS                                                                                                                                                       

4 Persons

For the Lechón Asado:
  • 4 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 8 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp ground black pepper
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground paprika
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 lime, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

INSTRUCTIONS                                                                                                                                                     

1) In a bowl, combine the olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, ground black pepper, salt, ground paprika, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and cayenne pepper to create the marinade.

2) Place the pork shoulder in a large resealable plastic bag or a container. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

3) Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

4) Remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature.

5) Place the marinated pork in a roasting pan or oven-safe dish. Arrange the sliced onion, orange, and lime on top and around the pork.

6) Cover the pork with aluminum foil and roast in the preheated oven for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) and the meat is tender.

7) Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to crisp and caramelize.

8) Once done, remove the Lechón Asado from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving.

9) Carve the pork into slices or chunks, and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.

10) Serve the Lechón Asado hot, accompanied by traditional Cuban sides like rice, black beans, and fried plantains.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving)                                                                                       

Calories: 350 kcal

Protein: 32g

Carbohydrates: 7g

Fat: 22g

Fiber: 2g

Sodium: 800mg

DURATION : 4 to 24 hours (marinating and cooking time combined)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

TRICK & TIP                                                                                                                                                           

For extra crispy skin, you can increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) during the last 10-15 minutes of roasting. Serve the Lechón Asado with a side of tangy mojo sauce and enjoy the authentic flavors of Cuba.