Try this mouthwatering recipe for Cuban Shredded Pork that is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is a popular staple in Cuban cuisine. The pork is seasoned with a blend of spices and then cooked until it easily falls apart. Serve it with white rice, black beans, and plantains for an authentic Cuban meal. This recipe requires a few hours of cooking time but the end result is absolutely worth it. Impress your family and friends with this traditional Cuban dish.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to create a spice rub.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, ensuring that it is evenly coated.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, and cook until slightly softened.
- Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the pork shoulder. Sear the pork on all sides until browned.
- Pour the orange juice, lime juice, and lemon juice over the pork. Add the sugar to balance the acidity of the citrus juices.
- Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the skillet or Dutch oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Using two forks, shred the pork shoulder into bite-sized pieces.
- Serve the shredded pork with white rice, black beans, and plantains. Enjoy your delicious Cuban meal!
Interesting Facts
Cuban Shredded Pork is known as 'Ropa Vieja' in Spanish, which translates to 'old clothes' in English. The name comes from the shredded appearance of the pork.
Ropa Vieja is considered one of the national dishes of Cuba and is often served during festive occasions and family gatherings.
The dish originated in Spain and was brought to Cuba by Spanish immigrants. It has since become a beloved and iconic part of Cuban cuisine.