Slow Cooker Cuban Pork 🍖🇨🇺

This Slow Cooker Cuban Pork recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a touch of Cuba to your kitchen. Marinated in a citrusy blend of spices, this tender pork is perfect for tacos, sandwiches, or simply served on a plate with a side of rice and beans. The slow cooking method ensures that the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth delicious, making it an ideal meal for busy days or gatherings.

Ingredients

For the pork marinade

• 3-4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional, for spice)

For serving

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Warm tortillas or crusty bread
• Avocado slices (optional)
• Pickled red onions (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) until well combined.

2. Marinate the pork: Place the pork shoulder in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it's well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

3. Slow cook the pork: After marinating, place the sliced onion and jalapeño (if using) at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the marinated pork shoulder on top, pouring any excess marinade over the meat.

4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is fork-tender and shreds easily.

5. Shred the pork: Once cooked, transfer the pork to a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat, then return it to the slow cooker to soak in the juices for about 15 minutes before serving.

🥄 The key to tender pork is low and slow cooking. If time allows, cooking on low heat will yield the best flavor and texture.

Variations

• Citrus Twist: For a twist, add some grapefruit juice to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor. 🍊🍋
• Spicy Kick: Include additional chopped fresh chilies or hot sauce into the marinade for a spicier result.
• Pineapple Addition: Dice up some fresh pineapple and add it to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for a sweet contrast. 🍍
• Sofrito Base: Sauté some diced bell peppers and onions in olive oil before adding to the slow cooker for an added depth of flavor.

Enjoy this delicious Slow Cooker Cuban Pork any day of the week, and savor the rich, tangy flavors that make it a truly delightful dish!