Lechon Asado Recipe – Cuba's Savory Pork Delight

Name: Lechon Asado
Prep time: 12 h 30 min
Cook time: 4 h 55 min
Total time: 17 h 25 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Cuisine: Cuba
Ingredients: a mix of orange juice; bay leaf; black pepper; cumin; dried oregano; head garlic; lime juice; olive oil; onion; paprika; pork shoulder about pounds bone in; salt; sour orange juice; soy sauce; white vinegar

Lechon Asado is a beloved Cuban dish featuring a whole roasted pork shoulder marinated in a zesty citrus blend. This culinary staple holds cultural significance, often served during festive celebrations and family gatherings, showcasing the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine. The slow-roasting process results in tender meat with a crispy skin, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

1 whole pork shoulder (about 5-7 pounds), bone-in
1/4 cup sour orange juice (or a mix of orange juice and lime juice)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 head garlic, peeled and minced
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 onion, finely chopped
1 bay leaf

Instructions

Marinate the Pork

In a bowl, mix the sour orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, cumin, paprika, soy sauce, and white vinegar.

Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to get it into all the nooks and crannies.

Place the pork in a large zip-top bag or covered dish and refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight.

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325째F (165째C).

Roast the Pork

Remove the pork from the marinade and place it on a rack in a roasting pan. If you don't have a rack, you can place the pork directly in the pan, but a rack helps to ensure even cooking.

Sprinkle the chopped onion and bay leaf around the pork in the pan.

Cover the pork loosely with aluminum foil and roast in the preheated oven for about 4 to 5 hours, or until the meat is tender and pulls apart easily.

Crisp the Skin

For crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 450째F (230째C) during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. Remove the foil and allow the skin to crisp up, but watch it closely to prevent burning.

Serve

Let the pork rest for about 15 minutes before carving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lechon Asado?

Lechon Asado is a traditional Cuban dish made from a whole roasted pork shoulder, marinated in a mix of citrus juices and spices. The result is tender, flavorful meat with a crispy skin.

Where does Lechon Asado come from?

Lechon Asado originates from Cuba, where it is a staple in festive occasions, family gatherings, and celebrations.

What are the main ingredients in Lechon Asado?

Key ingredients include a whole pork shoulder, sour orange juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, oregano, and cumin.

How long does Lechon Asado take to make?

Lechon Asado takes approximately 980-1110 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Lechon Asado?

Lechon Asado is typically served with black beans, rice, and fried plantains, creating a delicious and hearty meal.

Lechon Asado