Best Easy Cuban Pork Chunks Recipe
Cuban cuisine is known for its rich flavors and unique combination of ingredients. One of the most popular dishes is Cuban pork chunks, which are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavors. This easy recipe allows you to recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds of pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon of oregano
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of orange juice
– 2 tablespoons of lime juice
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, cumin powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, orange juice, lime juice, and olive oil. Mix well to form a marinade.
2. Add the pork chunks to the marinade and coat them thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the pork chunks from the marinade and thread them onto skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each chunk to ensure even cooking.
5. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them occasionally, until the pork chunks are charred on the outside and cooked through.
6. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
7. Serve the Cuban pork chunks with a side of rice and beans, or as a filling for sandwiches or tacos.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, you can use pork tenderloin or pork loin instead of pork shoulder.
2. Can I cook this recipe in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the pork chunks in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Can I use lemon juice instead of lime juice?
Yes, you can substitute lemon juice for lime juice.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the pork chunks overnight to save time.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chunks in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
6. Can I use a different marinade?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors by adding spices like paprika or chili powder to the marinade.
7. Can I use a grill pan instead of a grill?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop to cook the pork chunks.
8. Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, boneless pork chops can also be used in this recipe.
9. Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the pork chunks in a slow cooker on low heat for 6-8 hours.
10. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinade to add some heat.
11. Can I use a different citrus juice?
Yes, you can use grapefruit or pineapple juice instead of orange juice for a different flavor profile.