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Tender Slow Cooker Cuban Mojo Pork Lechon Asado Recipe Easy and Flavorful

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A juicy, tender Cuban mojo pork lechon asado made effortlessly in a slow cooker, packed with authentic citrus, garlic, and spice flavors. Perfect for busy days and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds pork shoulder (Boston Butt)
  • 6 to 8 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (preferably Valencia or Navel)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Trim the pork shoulder, removing thick layers of fat but leaving some marbling. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together minced garlic, orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper to make the mojo marinade.
  3. Place the pork shoulder in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, coat well, seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  4. Optional: Sear the pork shoulder in a hot cast iron skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized for extra flavor.
  5. Arrange sliced onions and bay leaves in the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the pork shoulder on top along with all marinade juices.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours until the pork is fork-tender and shreds easily.
  7. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred with two forks. Discard bay leaves.
  8. Return shredded pork to the slow cooker juices or spoon juices over when serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

Notes

If sauce is too thin, remove pork and reduce liquid on HIGH uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Searing pork before slow cooking adds flavor but is optional. Use bottled citrus juice if fresh is unavailable but expect less brightness. Avocado oil can substitute olive oil. Check spice labels for gluten-free assurance.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cuban mojo pork, slow cooker pork, lechon asado, mojo marinade, slow cooker recipe, easy pork recipe, Cuban cuisine, tender pork, citrus pork