Recipe: Cuban Grilled Mojo Pork Tenderloin

Introduction

If you’re looking to add some flavor and excitement to your grilling repertoire, look no further than this delicious recipe for Cuban Grilled Mojo Pork Tenderloin. Bursting with traditional Cuban flavors, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends at your next barbecue gathering.

Ingredients

Before you fire up the grill, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

– 2 pounds of pork tenderloin

Choose fresh, high-quality pork tenderloins for the best results.

– 4 cloves of garlic, minced

Freshly minced garlic adds a powerful punch of flavor to the marinade.

– 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice

The citrusy sweetness of orange juice complements the savory flavors of the pork.

– 1/4 cup of fresh lime juice

Lime juice adds a tangy brightness to the marinade.

– 1/4 cup of olive oil

High-quality olive oil helps to tenderize and moisten the pork.

– 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro, chopped

Cilantro adds a refreshing herbal note to the marinade.

– 1 tablespoon of dried oregano

Oregano brings a warm and earthy flavor to the dish.

– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin

Cumin adds a smoky and slightly nutty taste to the marinade.

– Salt and black pepper to taste

Season the pork with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavors.

Marinating the Pork

Follow these simple steps to marinate the pork tenderloin:

1. Prepare the marinade

In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.

2. Marinate the pork

Place the pork tenderloins in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Grilling the Pork

Now it’s time to fire up the grill and cook the marinated pork tenderloin to perfection:

1. Preheat the grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C) and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

2. Remove the pork from the marinade

Take the pork tenderloins out of the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.

3. Grill the pork

Place the pork tenderloins on the preheated grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This will result in juicy and slightly pink pork. If you prefer it more well-done, cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

4. Rest and slice

Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice the tenderloins into thin medallions and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some serving suggestions to complement your Cuban Grilled Mojo Pork Tenderloin:

– Rice and beans

Pair the pork with traditional Cuban rice and beans for a complete and satisfying meal.

– Grilled plantains

Add some sweetness to your plate with grilled plantains, a classic Cuban side dish.

– Fresh avocado salad

Balance out the richness of the pork with a refreshing salad made from ripe avocados, tomatoes, and red onions.

– Mojito cocktail

Complete the Cuban experience by sipping on a refreshing mojito cocktail made with rum, lime juice, mint leaves, and soda water.

Conclusion

This recipe for Cuban Grilled Mojo Pork Tenderloin is a fantastic way to bring the vibrant flavors of Cuba to your backyard grill. With its zesty marinade and tender, juicy meat, this dish is sure to become a favorite among your friends and family. So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy a taste of Cuba!