Slow Cooker Cuban Pork is a mouthwatering dish that brings the delightful flavors of Cuba to your kitchen. This recipe features a tender and flavorful pork shoulder that is slowly cooked with aromatic spices and citrus juices. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth meat that is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or served with rice and beans. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can enjoy the taste of authentic Cuban cuisine with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds pork shoulder, boneless
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for serving (optional)
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to make the spice rub.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly all over the pork shoulder.
- In a slow cooker, place the sliced onions and bell peppers at the bottom.
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the onions and bell peppers.
- Pour the orange juice, lime juice, and lemon juice over the pork shoulder.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart.
- Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and mix it with the juices and vegetables.
- Serve the Slow Cooker Cuban Pork warm with rice and beans or use it as a filling for sandwiches or tacos.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Interesting Facts
Cuban pork is traditionally made using a whole pig and cooked over an open fire, but this slow cooker version makes it easier to prepare at home.
The combination of citrus juices gives the pork a tangy and refreshing flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices.
Leftover Slow Cooker Cuban Pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
This recipe can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences. You can add more or less spice depending on how spicy you like your pork.