Introduction
Discover the vibrant flavors of Cuba with our Cuban Grilled Pork (Lechon Asado) recipe. This traditional dish captures the essence of Cuban street food, offering a rich combination of spices and techniques that bring out the best in pork shoulder.
Tips for this Recipe
- Ensure your electric rotisserie oven is preheated to evenly cook the meat.
- Marinate the pork overnight in the citrus juice mixture for enhanced flavor penetration.
- Monitor internal temperature with a meat thermometer for safety and doneness.
Why you will love this recipe
The Cuban Grilled Pork delivers an unforgettable taste experience that’s both succulent and savory. The combination of citrus, spices, and smoky notes makes it a standout dish at any table.
Ingredients
4 cups seville orange juice or 2 2/3 cups lime juice and 1 1/3 cup orange juice, 1 tablespoon ground cumin, 2 tablespoons dried oregano, 2 heads garlic (roughly chopped), 3 tablespoons salt, 1 tablespoon black pepper, 2 onions (cut into rings), 6 to 8 pounds boneless pork shoulder butt (blade roast).
Adviced Equipment
– Electric Rotisserie Oven: Ideal for evenly cooking the meat.
– Grill Pan/Griddle: Perfect for searing and grilling ingredients common in Cuban cuisine.
– Meat Thermometer: To ensure safe internal temperature of pork.
– Grill Basket: For easy handling on the grill.
– Basting Brush: Essential for applying marinade during roasting.
– Roasting Rack: Promotes healthy cooking and even heat exposure.
– Pair of Long-Handled Tongs: Practical for managing meat on the grill.
– Spice Rack or Grinder: Convenient for spices like adobo or ají.
– Cooling Rack: Key for resting cooked meat post roasting, enhancing tenderninas.
– Meat Slicer: For serving thin, consistent pork slices.
History of the Recipe
Cuban Grilled Pork (Lechon Asado) has its roots in traditional Latin American barbecue. Inspired by centuries-old roasting techniques, this dish reflects a fusion of African and Spanish culinary influences prevalent in Cuba’s history. Its popularity soared with the rise of Cuban cuisine globally.
Fun Facts about This Recipe
The use of an electric rotisserie oven for this dish is a modern twist on traditional methods, offering precision cooking while retaining authentic flavors. Additionally, the blend of citrus and spices in Cuban Grilled Pork represents the island’s zestful approach to food, turning every meal into an experience that tantalizes the taste buds.