The Best Pernil Recipe You'll Ever Taste

This recipe will guide you through making the ultimate pernil, a traditional Puerto Rican roasted pork shoulder. Seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, the meat is marinated overnight for maximum flavor. Slow-roasted to perfection, the result is tender, juicy, and flavorful pork that will impress your friends and family. Serve with rice, beans, and a side of plantains for a complete Puerto Rican feast.

Ingredients

• 8-10 pounds pork shoulder
• 10 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the pork shoulder in a large roasting pan and rub the garlic and spice mixture all over the meat, making sure to get it into all the nooks and crannies.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the orange juice, lime juice, and olive oil. Pour the marinade over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly. Cover the roasting pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
4. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
5. Remove the plastic wrap from the roasting pan and cover it with aluminum foil. Roast the pork shoulder in the preheated oven for about 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 450°F (232°C). Roast the pork shoulder uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and browned.
7. Remove the pork shoulder from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve hot with rice, beans, and plantains.
8. Enjoy!

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