How To Marinate A Pernil Puerto Rican Style

Marinating a Pernil Puerto Rican Style

Marinating a pernil, or pork shoulder, Puerto Rican style is a delicious and flavorful way to prepare this traditional dish. The marinade, or adobo, is a key component in creating the rich and savory flavors that make pernil a favorite in Puerto Rican cuisine. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a special occasion or simply craving a taste of the Caribbean, marinating a pernil Puerto Rican style is a sure way to impress your taste buds and those of your loved ones.

Ingredients

Before you begin marinating your pernil, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pork shoulder (6-8 pounds)
• 8-10 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions

Once you have all the ingredients, follow these steps to marinate your pernil Puerto Rican style:

1. Prepare the marinade by blending the garlic, oregano, cumin, black pepper, salt, orange juice, white vinegar, and olive oil in a food processor or blender until smooth.
2. Place the pork shoulder in a large resealable plastic bag or a non-reactive container.
3. Pour the marinade over the pork shoulder, making sure it is evenly coated. Massage the marinade into the meat, ensuring that it is well-covered.
4. Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate the pork shoulder for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
5. When you’re ready to cook the pernil, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting.

Cooking the Pernil

After marinating the pernil, it’s time to cook it to perfection:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place the marinated pork shoulder in a roasting pan and cover it with aluminum foil.
3. Roast the pernil for approximately 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and the internal temperature reaches 180°F (82°C).
4. For the last hour of cooking, remove the foil to allow the skin to crisp up and develop a golden brown color.
5. Once the pernil is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your pernil Puerto Rican style is ready, it’s time to enjoy this mouthwatering dish. Serve the tender and flavorful pork shoulder with traditional accompaniments such as arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), tostones (fried green plantains), and a side of tangy escabeche (pickled vegetables). Don’t forget the hot sauce for an extra kick!

Marinating a pernil Puerto Rican style is a labor of love that yields a truly satisfying and memorable meal. The combination of garlic, citrus, and aromatic spices infuses the meat with irresistible flavors that will transport you to the sunny shores of Puerto Rico with every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a taste of the Caribbean, this classic dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.