This Mojito Pulled Pork is a tasty twist on a classic dish, mixing tender, shredded pork with zesty lime, cool mint, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for tacos or sandwiches!
I love how this recipe brings a tropical vibe to my meals. It’s a hit at parties, and honestly, who can say no to minty, lime-flavored goodness? 🌿🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut has the right amount of fat for pulled pork. If you’re looking for a leaner option, use pork loin, but it may not be as tender. You can also substitute with chicken thighs for a lighter dish.
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh lime juice gives the dish its vibrant flavor. If limes are out of season, use lemon juice instead. The zest is key for adding aroma, so don’t skip it!
Fresh Mint: Essential for that mojito flavor! If fresh mint isn’t available, try using dried mint or even basil for a different twist, although it won’t taste quite like a mojito.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and balances the citrus. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use honey or maple syrup as a substitute, but adjust to your taste.
White Rum: It enhances the mojito flavor. If you prefer non-alcoholic, you can use extra lime juice or even coconut water for a tropical feel.
How Do I Ensure Tender Pulled Pork?
To get perfectly tender pulled pork, the key is slow cooking. Cook the pork at a low temperature for several hours, allowing the collagen to break down. Here are some easy tips:
- Marinate overnight to infuse flavors, but a few hours will work if you’re short on time.
- Use foil to tightly cover your dish while roasting, which helps retain moisture.
- Check for tenderness after 4 hours. If it doesn’t easily pull apart, give it some more time.
- Let it rest after removing from the oven; this allows juices to redistribute for better flavor.
How to Make Mojito Pulled Pork
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4 limes)
- Zest of 2 limes
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white rum
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For the Pulled Pork:
- 4 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Small fresh chili pieces (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious mojito pulled pork takes about 30 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 4 hours for marinating and 4-5 hours for roasting. Make sure to plan ahead for the marinating time to maximize the flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the fresh lime juice, lime zest, chopped mint, minced garlic, brown sugar, white rum, ground cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), and olive oil. Stir well until everything is combined to create a flavorful mojito marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
Place the pork shoulder into a large resealable bag or a deep dish. Pour the mojito marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, and place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you want even more flavor.
3. Preheat the Oven:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature is great for making the pork tender.
4. Roast the Pork:
Take the marinated pork and transfer it, along with the marinade, into a roasting pan or oven-safe dish. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil to help keep the moisture in. Place it in the oven and roast for about 4-5 hours, or until the pork is very tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
5. Shred the Pork:
Once it’s done cooking, carefully remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. After it has rested, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
6. Serve the Dish:
Serve your mojito pulled pork over a bed of cooked white rice. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, small pieces of fresh chili for some heat, and lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. For added flavor, feel free to drizzle some of the cooking juices over the pork and rice!
Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful mojito-inspired pulled pork dish! It’s perfect for gatherings or a special family meal.
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder (or pork butt) is ideal for pulled pork due to its fat content, you can use pork loin or even chicken thighs if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, with leaner cuts cooking more quickly.
How Do I Customize the Heat Level?
If you want to adjust the spice level, you can simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes for no heat. For more heat, add more flakes or try using fresh chopped jalapeños in the marinade or as a garnish. Taste as you go to find your preferred spice level!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! After marinating the pork, place it in a slow cooker with the marinade and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the pulled pork for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
