Name: Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h 17 min
Total time: 30 h 32 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: For the Brine:; ½ cup fresh orange or tangerine juice; ¼ cup kosher salt; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp rosemary; 1½ tsp smoked or sweet paprika; 1½ tsp whole black peppercorns; ½ tsp oregano; 3 clove garlic; 1 Pork Shoulder Roast; For the glaze:; ½ cup lemon, orange or tangerine sorbet; 2 tbsp fresh tangerine or lemon juice; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp fresh lime juice; orange slices; cilantro; 24 Boston lettuce leaves; fresh salsa

Experience the delight of a traditional Cuban culinary gem with this amazing 24-hour roast pork recipe. Immerse yourself in the rich, succulent flavors of slow-roasted pork marinated in a unique blend of citrus and spices, then glazed with a tantalizing tangerine sorbet mix, making for a truly unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

Photos of Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork Recipe

This recipe requires a few ingredients that you might not have in your pantry. One noteworthy ingredient is the tangerine sorbet, which is used in the glaze and can be found in the freezer aisle of most supermarkets. If unavailable, you can substitute it with an orange or lemon sorbet. Likewise, pork shoulder roast is the choice cut for this recipe due to its ideal fat to meat ratio which results in a tender and juicy roast after long hours of cooking. Depending on your location, you might need to pre-order this cut from your butcher.

Ingredients for 24-Hour Cuban Roast Pork

Fresh orange juice: A staple in Cuban cuisine, it's used to create a citrusy marinade that elevates the flavor of the pork.

Kosher salt: It helps to tenderize the meat and enhance its flavor.

Brown sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the marinade and glaze, balancing out the savory and citrus elements.

Rosemary: Its aromatic and slightly minty flavor complements the pork.

Smoked paprika: Gives the pork a smoky flavor.

Black peppercorns: They add a mild heat and aromatic quality to the dish.

Oregano: A staple in Cuban cooking, it adds a slightly sweet and bitter flavor to the pork.

Garlic: Essential for adding depth of flavor.

Pork shoulder roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking, yielding tender and flavorful meat.

Sorbet: Glazing the pork with sorbet adds a sweet and tangy twist that pairs beautifully with the savory roast.

Fresh salsa: It adds a refreshing and zesty touch, perfectly balancing out the rich roasted pork.

One reader, Jerri Mercado says:

This Cuban 24-hour roast pork recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are out of this world, and the meat is incredibly tender. The combination of citrus and spices creates a mouthwatering experience. It's definitely worth the wait and effort. I can't wait to make it again!

Jerri Mercado

Mastering the Techniques for Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork

How to prepare the brine: Combine the orange juice, salt, brown sugar, rosemary, paprika, peppercorns, oregano, and garlic in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve, about 30 seconds. Pour into a large bowl and let it cool slightly. Stir in 3 1/2 cups of water and refrigerate until cold, about 30 minutes.

How to brine the pork roast: Place the pork roast in a large ziplock bag. Pour the brine over the roast and seal the bag. Place the bag in a large bowl and refrigerate for 24 hours, turning the bag once.

How to roast the pork: Preheat the oven to 300 degrees. Remove the pork from the brine and transfer it to a large roasting pan. Cover it loosely with foil and roast for 6 hours, or until the meat is very tender.

How to make the glaze: In a bowl, stir together the sorbet, tangerine juice, brown sugar, and lime juice.

How to broil the pork: Spread the pork with the glaze and broil it about 5 inches from the heat until browned, about 3 minutes.

How to prepare the lettuce wraps: To serve, place a slice or two of pork on a lettuce leaf, top with salsa, roll up, and eat.

How To Make Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork

This Cuban pork roast is glazed with flavorful ingredients and the brine for the boneless pork shoulder roast highlights tangerine juice flavor with spices.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 6 hours 17 minutes

Chill and Marinate Time: 1 day

Total: 1 day 6 hours 32 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For the Brine:

½cupfresh orange,or tangerine juice
¼cupkosher salt
2tbspbrown sugar
1tbsprosemary,dried
1½tsppaprika,smoked or sweet
1½tspwhole black peppercorns
½tsporegano,dried
3garlic clove
1pork shoulder roast,boneless

For the Glaze:

½cuptangerine sorbet,or lemon, or orange
2tbspfresh tangerine,or lemon juice
2tbspbrown sugar
1tbspfresh lime juice
orange slices,optional
cilantro,chopped, optional
24Boston lettuce leaves,about 2 heads
fresh salsa

Instructions

In a small bowl, stir together 2 tablespoons of orange juice and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Add shallots, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes; cook, stirring frequently, until shallots are lightly golden for about 3 minutes.
Add the remaining orange juice, broth, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil; boil until reduced to 1 cup for about 6 minutes. Whisk in cornstarch mixture; boil for 1 minute. Remove saucepan from heat and set aside.
Place pork slices cut side down on the work surface and flatten slightly with the palm of your hand to make medallions. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
In a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter with the remaining 1 tablespoon oil.
Add pork and cook in batches until browned and cooked through for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer pork to a platter.
Add sauce to skillet with drippings; place skillet over medium-high heat. Bring sauce to a boil, stirring to scrape up any brown bits.
Stir in juices from pork on a platter. Remove skillet from heat and add pork slices to skillet, turning to coat with sauce.

Brine:

In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, salt, brown sugar, rosemary, paprika, peppercorns, oregano, and garlic. Bring to a boil; cook, stirring until salt and sugar dissolve for about 30 seconds.
Pour into a large bowl and let cool slightly. Stir in 3½ cups of water. Refrigerate until cold for about 30 minutes.
Place pork roast in a large Ziploc bag. Pour brine over roast and seal bag. Place bag in a large bowl and refrigerate for 24 hours, turning bag once.
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Remove pork from brine and transfer to a large roasting pan. Cover loosely with foil. Roast pork for 6 hours, or until meat is very tender.
Remove pork from the pan and set aside for 30 minutes. Pour pan juices into a bowl and skim off the fat. Set aside; do not clean the pan.
Preheat broiler. Remove strings from pork and return pork to pan.
Glaze:
In a bowl, stir together sorbet, tangerine juice, brown sugar, and lime juice. Spread pork with glaze and broil about 5 inches from heat until browned for about 3 minutes.
Remove roast to a cutting board and let rest for 15 minutes. Add pan juices to other reserved juices and reheat in a saucepan.
Thinly slice pork roast and arrange on a platter. Drizzle with some of the hot pan juices; garnish with orange slices and chopped cilantro, if desired.
To serve, place a slice or two of pork on a lettuce leaf, top with salsa, roll up, and eat.

Nutrition

Calories: 86.57kcal
Fat: 3.10g
Saturated Fat: 1.07g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.27g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.43g
Carbohydrates: 10.50g
Fiber: 1.18g
Sugar: 8.76g
Protein: 4.75g
Cholesterol: 14.88mg
Sodium: 186.65mg
Calcium: 27.18mg
Potassium: 179.06mg
Iron: 0.60mg
Vitamin A: 31.08µg
Vitamin C: 18.82mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork

When preparing the pork roast, it's crucial to give it ample time to brine. This 24-hour process allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy roast. Additionally, when broiling the roast with the glaze, keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. The sugars in the glaze can caramelize quickly under high heat. Lastly, letting the roast rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is moist and delicious.

Time-Saving Tips for Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the brine and glaze the day before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use a slow cooker: Consider using a slow cooker to cook the pork roast, allowing you to set it and forget it while you attend to other tasks.

Invest in a meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to the right temperature, preventing overcooking and saving time.

Opt for pre-cut pork medallions: To save time, consider purchasing pre-cut pork medallions instead of slicing the pork roast yourself.

Multi-task: While the pork is roasting, use the time to prepare the accompanying side dishes or clean up the kitchen to save time later.

Substitute Ingredients For Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork Recipe

kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of saltiness and flavor to the dish.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness and a touch of floral flavor to the brine.
rosemary - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can provide a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the brine.
smoked or sweet paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a spicy kick and depth of flavor to the dish.
whole black peppercorns - Substitute with ground black pepper: Ground black pepper can provide the same peppery flavor and aroma to the brine.
oregano - Substitute with marjoram: Marjoram can offer a similar herbaceous and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor similar to garlic.
pork shoulder roast - Substitute with beef chuck roast: Beef chuck roast can be used as a substitute for a different flavor profile while still achieving a tender, slow-roasted result.
lemon, orange or tangerine sorbet - Substitute with marmalade: Marmalade can provide a sweet and tangy glaze similar to the sorbet.
tangerine or lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can add a tangy and citrusy flavor to the glaze.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can provide a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to cilantro.
boston lettuce leaves - Substitute with butter lettuce leaves: Butter lettuce leaves have a similar tender texture and mild flavor to Boston lettuce.
fresh salsa - Substitute with pico de gallo: Pico de gallo can provide a fresh and flavorful topping similar to fresh salsa.

Presenting Your Cuban Roast Pork Dish

Elevate the pork medallions: Arrange the succulent pork medallions on the plate in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping each other to create an appealing visual presentation.
Garnish with vibrant cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the pork to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor to the dish.
Drizzle with citrus glaze: Artfully drizzle the zesty citrus glaze over the pork, allowing it to cascade down the sides, creating an enticing visual appeal and adding a burst of tangy flavor.
Nestle in lettuce leaves: Carefully arrange the pork medallions on a bed of vibrant Boston lettuce leaves, adding a touch of elegance and freshness to the presentation.
Adorn with orange slices: Place delicate, thinly sliced orange segments around the pork, adding a bright and citrusy element to the plate.
Accompany with vibrant salsa: Serve the dish with a side of fresh salsa, adding a burst of color and a zesty, flavorful component to the presentation.
Present with a side of pan juices: Serve the pork alongside a small vessel of the rich, flavorful pan juices, allowing guests to drizzle it over the pork as desired.

Essential Tools for Making Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, pureeing, and mixing. It's great for making marinades, sauces, and salsas.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients, marinating meats, and preparing the brine for the pork roast. It's important to have different sizes to accommodate various recipes.

Storing and Freezing Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for cuban 24-hour roast pork:

Let the cooked pork roast cool to room temperature before storing or freezing. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
Wrap the cooled pork roast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Place the wrapped pork roast in an airtight container or freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air before sealing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
For storing in the refrigerator: Place the wrapped and sealed pork roast in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to reheat, remove from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before reheating in the oven or microwave.
For storing in the freezer: Place the wrapped and sealed pork roast in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, remove from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.
To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed pork roast in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes on high power.
If you have any leftover pan juices or glaze, store them separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat the juices or glaze in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through before serving with the reheated pork roast.

How To Reheat Leftover Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pork roast in a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the meat from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the pork slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meat to become tough.
If you have a lot of leftover pork, consider shredding it and reheating it in a skillet with a little bit of the reserved pan juices or broth. This method is perfect for making pulled pork sandwiches or tacos.
For a crispy exterior, heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork slices and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy.
If you have a sous vide machine, you can reheat the pork using this method. Place the pork in a vacuum-sealed bag and cook it in a water bath at 140°F (60°C) for about an hour, or until heated through. This method ensures that the pork remains juicy and tender.

Interesting Fact About Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork

Cuban 24-hour roast pork is a traditional dish in Cuban cuisine and is often served during special occasions and celebrations. It is a dish that requires patience and time, as the pork is marinated for 24 hours to infuse it with flavor and tenderness. This slow-roasting method allows the meat to become incredibly tender and juicy, making it a favorite among many who enjoy Cuban cuisine. The combination of citrus flavors, spices, and slow cooking creates a unique and delicious dish that is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Is Making Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this cuban 24-hour roast pork recipe is quite high. The use of affordable ingredients like pork shoulder and basic pantry staples makes it budget-friendly. The flavorful outcome and the large portion size make it suitable for feeding a family of four at an approximate cost of $25. The long marination and slow roasting process yield a tender and succulent pork dish, earning it a solid 9/10 rating.

Is Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Cuban 24-hour roast pork recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

The brine contains a significant amount of salt and sugar, which can contribute to high sodium and sugar intake.
The pork shoulder roast is a fatty cut of meat, which can be high in saturated fat and calories.
The glaze contains sorbet and brown sugar, adding more sugar to the dish.
The recipe does not include a significant amount of vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients.

However, there are some positive aspects to the recipe:

The use of fresh citrus juices provides some vitamin C and other beneficial compounds.
The long cooking time can help break down the tough fibers in the pork, making it easier to digest.
The inclusion of herbs and spices like rosemary, paprika, oregano, and garlic can provide some antioxidants and other health benefits.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of salt and sugar in the brine, or use a salt substitute and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder before cooking to reduce the overall fat content.
Use a leaner cut of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, which are lower in fat and calories.
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish by serving the pork with a side of roasted or grilled vegetables.
Use a sugar-free or low-sugar sorbet in the glaze, or replace it with a puree of fresh citrus fruits.
Serve the pork with a whole grain option, such as brown rice or quinoa, to add fiber and nutrients.
Limit portion sizes to help control calorie intake.

Editor's Opinion on This Cuban Roast Pork Recipe

The 24-hour roast pork recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the tangy citrus notes with the savory richness of the pork. The brine infuses the meat with a perfect balance of sweet and savory, resulting in a tender and succulent roast. The glaze adds a beautiful caramelized finish, enhancing the overall taste and presentation. The use of fresh herbs and spices elevates the dish, creating a truly memorable dining experience. This recipe is a testament to the art of slow cooking and the magic of combining simple, high-quality ingredients to create a masterpiece.

Enhance Your Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango salsa: Create a refreshing and tangy mango salsa to accompany the succulent roast pork. The sweetness of the mango will complement the savory flavors of the pork, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture.

Garlic mashed potatoes: Whip up a creamy and flavorful batch of garlic mashed potatoes to serve alongside the roast pork. The creamy texture of the potatoes will contrast beautifully with the crispy exterior of the pork, providing a satisfying and comforting side dish.

Grilled pineapple skewers: Fire up the grill and prepare some delicious grilled pineapple skewers to pair with the roast pork. The caramelized sweetness of the pineapple will add a tropical twist to the meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Delicious Alternatives to Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork

Cuban Black Bean Soup: This hearty and flavorful soup is a perfect way to enjoy a warm and comforting meal. It's packed with protein and fiber from the black beans, and the combination of spices gives it a delicious kick.

Mango BBQ Chicken Skewers: These juicy and flavorful chicken skewers are marinated in a sweet and tangy mango BBQ sauce, then grilled to perfection. They're a perfect addition to any summer cookout or barbecue.

Coconut Flan: This creamy and decadent dessert is a classic in many Latin American cuisines. The rich coconut flavor pairs perfectly with the smooth and silky texture of the flan, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a mouthwatering appetizer with savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering and will leave your guests wanting more.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with elegant Caprese skewers featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. These colorful and delicious appetizers are a perfect addition to any party or event.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich and decadent Chocolate Lava Cake, with its gooey, molten center that oozes out with every bite. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Tiramisu: Transport your taste buds to Italy with the classic Tiramisu. Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese come together to create a dessert that is both elegant and comforting. Dust with cocoa powder for a finishing touch.

Why trust this Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork Recipe:

This recipe for Cuban 24-hour roast pork is a testament to traditional Cuban flavors and culinary techniques. The brine, infused with orange and tangerine juice, along with a blend of aromatic spices such as rosemary, paprika, and oregano, ensures a depth of flavor that permeates the pork shoulder roast. The glaze, featuring sorbet and a medley of citrus juices, adds a delightful tanginess to complement the rich, succulent meat. With a meticulous 24-hour brining process and slow roasting, this recipe promises tender, flavorful results that capture the essence of authentic Cuban cuisine.

Want to discuss this Cuban 24-Hour Roast Pork Recipe further? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and share your thoughts, tips, and experiences with fellow cooking enthusiasts!

FAQ:

How long should I brine the pork for?

You should brine the pork for 24 hours to ensure it absorbs all the flavors and becomes tender and juicy.

Can I use a different type of citrus juice for the glaze?

Yes, you can use lemon, orange, or tangerine juice for the glaze, depending on your preference and what you have available.

Can I substitute the pork shoulder roast with a different cut of meat?

While the pork shoulder roast is traditional for this recipe, you can also use pork butt or picnic roast for similar results.

What can I serve with the Cuban 24-hour roast pork?

You can serve the roast pork with traditional sides like black beans and rice, fried plantains, or a simple green salad. The pork also pairs well with fresh salsa and warm, crusty bread.

Can I prepare the pork ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pork ahead of time by brining it the day before and roasting it the next day. This allows the flavors to develop and makes it easier to manage your time when cooking for a special occasion.