Lechón asado

lechón_asado

Cuban cuisine is famous for its delicious and mouthwatering dishes, which are a blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors. One of the most popular dishes in traditional Cuban cuisine is Lechón asado, or roast pork. This dish is a staple at many Cuban celebrations and is a must-have during festivals, weddings, and family gatherings.

Lechón asado is a dish that originated in Cuba and is now enjoyed by many people around the world. It is made by slowly roasting a whole pig over hot coals, which results in a tender, juicy, and flavorful meat that is packed with delicious spices and flavors. The secret to a perfect Lechón asado is in the preparation, where the meat is marinated overnight with a flavorful mixture of herbs and spices to infuse the flavors deep into the meat.

The traditional Cuban Lechón asado recipe involves preparing the pig by removing its internal organs and cleaning the cavity. The pig is then marinated with a mixture of garlic, oregano, cumin, and sour orange juice. This marinade is allowed to seep into the meat overnight, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.

The next day, the pig is slowly roasted over hot coals for several hours, which allows the meat to cook slowly and to develop a crispy, golden-brown skin. While roasting, the pig is basted with a mixture of its own juices and the marinade, which keeps the meat tender and juicy.

Finally, when the Lechón asado is cooked, it should be left to rest for a few minutes before being sliced and served. The meat is so succulent that it will fall off the bone effortlessly, and the crispy skin adds a delicious crunch. Cuban-style roasted pork is typically served with black beans, rice, and plantains, which complement the flavors perfectly.

While preparing a Lechón asado may seem like a daunting task, it is the perfect way to impress your friends and family at any gathering. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a delicious meal, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

In conclusion, Cuban-style Lechón asado is a classic dish that is full of bold, delicious flavors. It requires time and effort to prepare, but the effort is well worth it once you experience the tasty outcome. With its succulent and juicy meat, crispy skin, and fantastic taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (8-10 pound) bone-in pork shoulder
  • 2 cups of sour orange juice (substitute with a mix of orange and lime juice if sour oranges are not available)
  • 1 cup of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 cup of olive oil

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

  2. Rinse the pork shoulder and pat dry with paper towels.

  3. With a sharp knife, make several small incisions all over the meat.

  4. In a large bowl, mix together the sour orange juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.

  5. Rub the mixture all over the pork, being sure to get some of it into the incisions.

  6. Place the pork shoulder in a large roasting pan and pour the olive oil over the top.

  7. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and roast for 4-5 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

  8. Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C). Roast for another 30-45 minutes or until the skin is golden and crispy.

  9. Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

  10. Serve with a side of black beans and rice, and some fried plantains if desired. Enjoy!