Easy Cuban Mojo Criollo

This classic Cuban Mojo Marinade has brought new life to my weeknight meals with its mouthwatering combination of garlic and citrus. Bold yet balanced, it is the secret to bringing out the best in pork, chicken, beef, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables. Ever since I first whipped up a batch in less than ten minutes, I have never looked back at the bottled stuff.

The first time I pulled this together was during a busy Sunday meal prep and it instantly became my go-to marinade for slow cooker pork and impromptu shrimp skewers. The flavor makes everyone at the table ask for seconds.

Ingredients

• Orange juice: opt for fresh if possible for intense flavor use sour Seville oranges for authentic taste
• Lime juice: freshly squeezed gives the right kick and balances sweetness
• Olive oil: extra virgin delivers a rich base and carries the citrus and spices choose good quality for the best results
• Garlic: twelve cloves are ideal but adjust for your preference always use fresh garlic for a sharp bold taste
• Oregano: classic for Cuban mojo adds earthiness dried or fresh both work but dried is traditional and easy to find
• Cumin: brings depth and a warm undertone make sure your spice is fresh for maximum flavor
• Salt: essential to bring out all the flavors choose fine sea salt or kosher salt for best seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Citrus:

Combine orange juice and lime juice in a large measuring cup or bowl Make sure the juice is freshly squeezed to get the brightest possible flavor

Infuse the Oil:

Add olive oil to the citrus juices and whisk together The oil will help carry flavor into meat and keep proteins moist during cooking

Crush the Garlic:

Peel the garlic cloves and crush them with the flat side of a knife or press them with a garlic press for the most release of flavor

Add Seasonings:

Stir in the crushed garlic oregano cumin and salt Mix well until you see the herbs and spices evenly dispersed in the liquid

Let It Marry:

Pour the mojo marinade into a large jar or container and secure the lid Shake vigorously or stir with a whisk then let the mixture rest at room temperature for at least ten minutes This allows the flavors to meld together

Use or Store:

Your marinade is ready to use pour over your protein or veggies of choice before cooking For best results marinate meats in the fridge allowing pork up to twenty four hours chicken and beef up to twelve hours and seafood only thirty minutes After marinating discard any leftover marinade that has touched raw meat Store any unused clean marinade in the fridge

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Seville oranges bring a unique sour and slightly bitter note that regular oranges cannot match and I always try to grab a few from the Latin market when they are in season The extra time juicing is absolutely worth it when friends and family taste the authentic zip it brings to meat dishes This recipe also brings back memories of lively family barbecues where the jar of bright yellow marinade was always the star

Storage Tips

Store mojo criollo in an airtight glass jar in the fridge right after mixing It keeps its vibrant flavor for up to one week For longer storage transfer to freezer safe containers or zip top bags and freeze for up to three months To thaw simply let it sit in the fridge overnight or in a bowl of cool water

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Seville oranges use regular orange juice with extra lime to mimic sourness Marjoram can replace or pair with oregano if needed If pressed for garlic time use pre peeled cloves but not jarred minced garlic for the freshest taste Vegetable oil can substitute olive oil but will result in a milder flavor

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Serving Suggestions

This mojo is the gold standard for marinating pork shoulder for slow roasted lechon asado Toss over yuca after boiling to make a traditional Cuban side Drizzle on grilled vegetables or use as a dipping sauce for breads Freshly grilled shrimp or steak taste especially lively when finished with a quick pour of mojo and chopped cilantro

Cultural Context

Mojo criollo is a cornerstone of Cuban cuisine bringing together Old World and Caribbean flavors It reflects the island’s history of using simple local ingredients in creative ways This marinade is more than just a sauce to me it is a symbol of Cuban gatherings where food is joyful and shared

Commonly Asked Questions

→ What does Cuban mojo criollo taste like?

Mojo criollo delivers vibrant citrus, bold garlic, and earthy oregano with a hint of cumin, creating a tangy, savory flavor profile.

→ Can I use regular oranges instead of sour oranges?

Yes, substitute regular oranges and add extra lime juice to match the tartness of sour (Seville) oranges for authentic taste.

→ How long should I marinate meat with mojo criollo?

Pork is best marinated up to 24 hours, chicken and beef up to 12 hours, while shrimp and fish need just 30 minutes.

→ What dishes pair well with Cuban mojo?

Try it with pork, beef, chicken, shrimp, roast vegetables, or pour over boiled yuca for a classic Cuban combination.

→ How do I store leftover mojo criollo?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for up to three months for later use.

→ Is marjoram a good substitute for oregano in this marinade?

Yes, marjoram may be used in addition to or instead of oregano for a slightly sweeter and more delicate herbal note.