Name: Slow Cooker Cuban Pork: 7 Steps to Flavorful Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 3 to 4 pounds Pork Shoulder (trimmed of excess fat); 1/4 cup Olive Oil; 6 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin; 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano; 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika; 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional); 1 large Fresh Orange Juice (Juice of 1 large orange); 1 large Lime Juice (Juice of 1 large lime); 1 large Onion (sliced); 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped); 1/2 cup Additional Fresh Orange Juice (optional)

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Slow Cooker Cuban Pork is a delightful dish that transports your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Cuba. This savory, slow-cooked Cuban pork is infused with a beautiful blend of citrus and spices, making it an unforgettable meal. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Let’s dive in and discover the magic of this authentic Cuban pork roast!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cuban Pork

This slow-cooked Cuban pork is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are some reasons why:

Effortless preparation: Simply marinate and set in the slow cooker.
Incredibly tender: The meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth soft.
Flavor explosion: The combination of citrus and spices creates a mouthwatering taste.
Versatile: Can be served in tacos, over rice, or as a hearty sandwich.
Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages.
Authentic Cuban flavors: Experience the rich culinary heritage of Cuba.

This dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a Cuban pulled pork recipe that’s easy yet packed with flavor. Plus, it fits into a gluten-free diet, making it accessible to many!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cuban Pork

Gather these items:

3 to 4 pounds Pork Shoulder (trimmed of excess fat)
1/4 cup Olive Oil
6 cloves Garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon Ground Cumin
1 tablespoon Dried Oregano
1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika
1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
1 large Fresh Orange Juice (Juice of 1 large orange)
1 large Lime Juice (Juice of 1 large lime)
1 large Onion (sliced)
1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
1/2 cup Additional Fresh Orange Juice (optional)

How to Make Slow Cooker Cuban Pork Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, salt, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), olive oil, orange juice, and lime juice. Stir until well blended!
Step 2: Place the pork shoulder in your slow cooker. Pour the marinade all over the meat, ensuring it’s completely coated for maximum flavor absorption.
Step 3: Scatter sliced onion around and on top of the pork.
Step 4: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Step 5: When ready, carefully take the pork out of the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
Step 6: If desired, skim some fat off the cooking juices. For an added citrus kick, mix in another 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice.
Step 7: Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Gently toss it with the cooking juices to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Step 8: Top your Cuban pork with freshly chopped cilantro to bring a burst of freshness. Serve it warm.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Cuban Pork

Keep these in mind:

Allow the pork to marinate for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches at least 190°F for perfect tenderness.
For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or additional crushed red pepper flakes.
Use the slow cooker method for an easy dinner that allows for meal prep throughout the week.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Cuban Pork

There are countless ways to enjoy this dish:

Serve it over rice for a hearty meal.
Make delicious slow cooker Cuban-style pork tacos with fresh toppings.
Use it as a filling for sandwiches or sliders with your favorite sauces.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Cuban Pork

To store leftovers, place the pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Remember, this dish is perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Cuban Pork

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Cuban Pork?

The secret lies in marinating the pork shoulder well and allowing it to cook low and slow, which ensures maximum tenderness and flavor absorption. The combination of spices and citrus brings depth to the dish.

Can I make Slow Cooker Cuban Pork ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the pork and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before reheating it for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Cuban Pork?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that you properly trim the pork shoulder to avoid excess fat and always allow sufficient time for cooking so the meat becomes tender. Don’t skip the marinating step!

Variations of Slow Cooker Cuban Pork You Can Try

Here are a few variations to switch things up:

Add pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
Incorporate additional spices like cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
Make it a slow cooker Cuban mojo pork by using a traditional Cuban marinade with garlic and sour orange.

Slow Cooker Cuban Pork: 7 Steps to Flavorful Perfection - Slow Cooker Cuban Pork - additional detail

For more information on slow cooking techniques, check out this guide. If you’re interested in other Cuban recipes, visit this page for more delicious options. You can also explore meal prep ideas to make your weeknight dinners easier!