Slow-Cooked Lechon with Cuban Mojito Sauce is a mouthwatering and flavorful dish that combines the tenderness of slow-cooked pork with the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine. This recipe pays homage to the traditional method of cooking lechon, a popular dish in many Latin American countries, and adds a Cuban twist with the zesty and refreshing mojito sauce. The result is a succulent and aromatic pork dish that is sure to impress and transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Cuba. Whether served as the centerpiece of a festive gathering or as a delicious weeknight meal, Slow-Cooked Lechon with Cuban Mojito Sauce is a culinary experience that is not to be missed.

Lechon, a dish traditionally made by slow-roasting a whole pig, has a rich history and is deeply rooted in Latin American and Caribbean cultures. The origins of lechon can be traced back to the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean, where the technique of roasting whole animals was practiced. As Spanish explorers arrived in the Americas, they brought this culinary tradition with them, which then evolved and adapted to the local ingredients and flavors of each region.

In Cuba, lechon is a beloved dish that holds a special place in the hearts of the Cuban people. It is often associated with festive occasions, family gatherings, and special celebrations such as weddings and holidays. The process of slow-cooking the whole pig on a spit over an open flame or in a large oven is a labor-intensive and time-consuming task, requiring expertise and patience.

To adapt the traditional lechon to a more manageable home-cooking setting, the Slow-Cooked Lechon with Cuban Mojito Sauce recipe offers a simplified method using pork shoulder or pork loin. The pork is slow-cooked to achieve tender and flavorful meat that mimics the essence of a whole roasted pig.

The Cuban Mojito Sauce, with its bright flavors of lime, mint, and garlic, adds a refreshing and zesty element to the slow-cooked pork. This sauce is inspired by the iconic Cuban cocktail, the mojito, which is known for its vibrant and citrusy flavors. The combination of the succulent pork and the tangy, herbaceous sauce creates a dynamic and unforgettable taste experience.

PREP: 15 MIN. + MARINATING

COOK: 9 HOURS

MAKES: 12 SERVINGS (1½ CUPS SAUCE)

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE SLOW-COOKED LECHON:

• 4-5 pounds pork shoulder or pork loin
• 2 large onions, quartered
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth or water
• Lime wedges for serving

FOR THE CUBAN MOJITO SAUCE:

• 1 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and black pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

PREPARING THE SLOW-COOKED LECHON:

1. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
2. Rub the marinade all over the pork shoulder or pork loin, ensuring it is evenly coated. Let the pork marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for optimal flavor.
3. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
4. Place the marinated pork in a roasting pan or Dutch oven. Add the chicken broth or water to the pan to provide moisture during cooking.
5. Cover the roasting pan tightly with foil or the lid of the Dutch oven.
6. Slow-cook the pork in the preheated oven for approximately 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and can easily be shredded with a fork.
7. Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding.

PREPARING THE CUBAN MOJITO SAUCE:

1. In a small bowl, combine the fresh lime juice, chopped mint leaves, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well combined.
2. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more lime juice, mint, or honey according to personal preference.

ASSEMBLING THE DISH:

1. Shred the slow-cooked pork using two forks, pulling the meat apart into smaller pieces.
2. Drizzle the Cuban Mojito Sauce over the shredded pork, ensuring it is well coated.
3. Toss the pork gently to incorporate the sauce.
4. Serve the Slow-Cooked Lechon with Cuban Mojito Sauce hot, accompanied by lime wedges for squeezing over the meat.

NOTES:

• Slow-Cooked Lechon with Cuban Mojito Sauce is a celebration of the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine and the rich tradition of slow-roasted pork. The tender and succulent pork, combined with the zesty and refreshing mojito sauce, creates a culinary experience that is both comforting and exhilarating. Whether enjoyed as a centerpiece for a special occasionor as a flavorful weeknight meal, Slow-Cooked Lechon with Cuban Mojito Sauce is sure to captivate your taste buds and transport you to the lively streets of Cuba.