Best 10 Pork Cubano Recipes

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Pork Cubano is a traditional Cuban dish that combines the flavors of slow-cooked pork and various spices to create a flavorful and tender meal. This dish is a testament to the culinary heritage of Cuba and is often served with sides like rice and beans, tostones, or yuca con mojo. The pork is typically marinated in a mixture of citrus juices, garlic, cumin, and oregano, then slow-cooked until fall-off-the-bone tender. The resulting dish is bursting with savory flavors and aromas that will tantalize your taste buds. With its unique blend of spices and the succulent texture of the pork, Pork Cubano is a dish that will surely impress your friends and family.

This article provides several recipes for Pork Cubano, each offering a unique twist on the classic dish. From the traditional Cuban-style Pork Cubano to variations using different cooking methods and ingredients, there's a recipe here to suit every taste and preference. Whether you prefer to slow-cook your pork in a traditional mojo sauce or opt for a quicker method using a pressure cooker, these recipes have got you covered. So, get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Cuba and discover the delectable flavors of Pork Cubano.

Here are our top 10 tried and tested recipes!

CUBANO PORK TENDERLOIN



Cubano Pork Tenderloin image

Came up with this when I happened to have deli ham and a pork tenderloin laying around. Choose a pan large enough for the tenderloin.

Provided by vpecchia

Categories     Main Dish Recipes     Pork     Ham

Time 1h5m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
½ medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, chopped
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 pinch salt and ground black pepper to taste
1 pound pork tenderloin
½ (8 ounce) package deli ham
1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
kitchen string

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
  • Heat 1/2 tablespoon oil an oven-proof pan large enough to fit the tenderloin over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; saute until just starting to brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in parsley and mustard. Transfer to a bowl and season with pepper.
  • Place tenderloin on a flat work surface. Slice horizontally through the middle, being careful not to cut all the way through to the other side. Open the 2 sides and spread them out like an open book. Place pork between 2 sheets of heavy plastic on a solid, level surface. Firmly pound with the smooth side of a meat mallet to a 1/2-inch thickness. Trim any extra pieces so the tenderloin is rectangular.
  • Chop the pork trimmings finely and add to the onion mixture. Spread onion mixture onto pork. Lay ham slices over it and sprinkle Gruyere cheese on top. Roll tenderloin up along the long side. Tie with cotton kitchen string. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Heat remaining oil in the same pan over medium-high heat. Sear tenderloin in the hot oil until browned, 3 to 5 minutes per side.
  • Transfer pan to the preheated oven and bake until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the tenderloin reads 145 degrees F (71 degrees C), 25 to 30 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 384.6 calories, Carbohydrate 3.2 g, Cholesterol 115.2 mg, Fat 24.8 g, Fiber 0.4 g, Protein 35.5 g, SaturatedFat 10.6 g, Sodium 653.4 mg, Sugar 0.8 g

PORK TENDERLOIN CUBANO



Pork Tenderloin Cubano image

I love Cuban cuisine for its blend of Spanish, African and Carribbean cooking styles and flavors. This is one of those recipes that requires simple preparation the night before and then goes on the grill or in the oven for a quick but delicious meal. From "Home Cooking with the Uncommon Gourmet" by Ellen Helman.

Provided by Acerast

Categories     Pork

Time 3h10m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

2 -12 ounces pork tenderloin
salt, to taste
ground black pepper, to taste
2 large garlic cloves, crushed
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons unsulphured molasses
1/4 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons dark rum

Steps:

  • Place the pork in a non-reactive container or plastic bag.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the salt, pepper, garlic, onion, oregano, molasses, orange juice, lime juice, and rum.
  • Pour the marinade over the pork, coating all surfaces.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours and as much as overnight.
  • Return to room temperature before cooking.
  • Grill method: Grill the tenderloins over hot coals, 4 inches from the heat source, about 5 minutes per side for medium-rare, basting with the reserved marinade.
  • Oven method: Roast the pork in a 400F oven for 20-25 minutes.
  • Let the meat rest for 5 minutes; then slice into 3/4 inch thick rounds and serve.

CUBANO PORK SANDWICHES



Cubano Pork Sandwiches image

When a hungry crowd's coming over, we plan a day ahead to make our juicy pork sandwiches. I call the sauce "mojo" because the zingy flavors are magic.-Theresa Yardas, Sheridan, Indiana

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 9h45m

Yield 24 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 23

1/3 cup ground cumin
1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons onion powder
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 boneless pork shoulder roast (6 to 7 pounds)
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 large onion, quartered
1 cup dry red wine or beef broth
2/3 cup lime juice
1/3 cup lemon juice
1/3 cup orange juice
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried cilantro flakes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon ground allspice
4 teaspoons olive oil
SANDWICHES:
2 loaves unsliced French bread (1 pound each)
1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
8 slices Swiss cheese

Steps:

  • In a small bowl, mix the first 5 ingredients. Cut roast into thirds; rub with oil. Rub spice mixture over meat; wrap in plastic. Refrigerate, covered, 24 hours., In a large saucepan, combine onion, wine, juices, bay leaf and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 45 minutes. Strain sauce, discarding onion and seasonings., In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Brown roast on all sides; drain. Transfer to a 6-qt. slow cooker. Pour sauce over meat. Cook, covered, on low 8-10 hours or until meat is tender. Remove roast; cool slightly. Skim fat from cooking juices. Shred pork with 2 forks. Return pork to slow cooker; heat through., Preheat oven to 325°. Split bread horizontally. Hollow out bottoms of loaves, leaving 3/4-in. shells. Spread relish and mustard inside shells. Layer with meat and cheese. Replace tops., Wrap sandwiches tightly in heavy-duty foil. Place on baking sheets. Bake 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Cut each crosswise into 12 slices.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 368 calories, Fat 16g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 76mg cholesterol, Sodium 648mg sodium, Carbohydrate 28g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 26g protein.

PORK TENDERLOIN CUBANO



Pork Tenderloin Cubano image

Categories     Rum     Garlic     Onion     Marinate     Roast     Lime     Orange     Pork Tenderloin     Bon Appétit

Yield Serves 8

Number Of Ingredients 13

1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup dark rum
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
6 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons salt
1 bay leaf, crumbled
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
4 12-ounce pork tenderloins
Orange slices
Fresh cilantro sprigs

Steps:

  • Mix first 10 ingredients in large resealable plastic bag. Add pork to marinade. Close bag and turn pork to coat. Refrigerate overnight, turning pork once.
  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Transfer pork to baking pan; discard marinade. Roast until thermometer inserted into center of pork registers 150°F, about 25 minutes. Let pork stand 5 minutes. Cut pork crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Arrange on platter. Garnish with orange slices and cilantro sprigs and serve.

SMOKED CUBAN (CUBANO) PORK



Smoked Cuban (Cubano) Pork image

You can't have a really good Cubano sandwich without a good slow-smoked pork butt. Nothin' like a good smoked butt. That's what I always say. This is a classic way to smoke a pork butt for use in a Cubano sandwich. And low and slow is definitely the way to go... First we're going to marinade the pork for 24 hours, and...

Provided by Andy Anderson !

Categories     Sandwiches

Time 12h

Number Of Ingredients 8

5-7 lb pork butt, bone in
MARINADE
3 c organic apple cider
1 c sweet orange juice, freshly squeezed
1 c lime juice, freshly squeezed
2 Tbsp cumin, ground
2 Tbsp salt, kosher variety
2 Tbsp cracked peppercorns

Steps:

  • 1. Gather your ingredients
  • 2. Add all the marinade ingredients to a large bowl and stir until completely dissolved.
  • 3. Use a sharp knife to cut a crosshatch pattern into the fat cap, and the bottom of the pork.
  • 4. Chef's Note: This will help the marinade to penetrate into the pork.
  • 5. Add the pork and the marinade to a large Ziploc bag, or non-reactive bowl.
  • 6. Chef's Note: Because of the size of these pork butts, I'm using turkey-basting bags that I got from Williams-Sonoma.
  • 7. Place in the fridge for 12, and up to 24 hours.
  • 8. Chef's Note: If you're like me, and you like to peek into the fridge every now and then... Well, while you're in there, give the bag a big old squeeze or two.
  • 9. Chef's Tip: Ziploc bags have been known to spring a leak. To keep this from becoming a problem, place the bag in a bowl, or on a large plate.
  • 10. After 24 hours remove the pork from the marinade, and save about two cups.
  • 11. Place the marinade into a small saucepan, and allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes, then remove and reserve.
  • 12. Preheat your smoker to 225f (107c).
  • 13. Thoroughly coat the pork with the dry rub... Rub it in good.
  • 14. Chef's Note: My dry rub consists of equal amounts of black pepper, cumin, paprika, onion powder, salt, and then a pinch or two of cayenne pepper.
  • 15. Add the pork butt to the smoker, along with two bricks.
  • 16. Chef's Note: The bricks are optional, but I'll explain that later.
  • 17. Allow the pork butt to smoke until reaching an internal temperature of 200f (94c).
  • 18. Chef's Note: Once an hour, for the first 6 hours, open the smoker, and mop the pork butt with the reserved marinade.
  • 19. Chef's Note: Depending on your cut of meat, it could take 12 hours to reach the magic number. But don't hasten the process by raising the heat... have patience.
  • 20. Optional Step: Remove the pork butt from the smoker, wrap in foil, then place into a beverage cooler, and place some tea towels around it, plus the two hot bricks. Let it sit for two hours. What this does is finish up the melting of the collagen, and makes this pork melt in your mouth.
  • 21. Chef's Tip: I made my own box out of Styrofoam, but a typical Coleman cooler will work just fine.
  • 22. Remove from the cooler, and shred. If the meat is a bit dry, add a small amount of the reserved marinade.
  • 23. Chef's Note: I tried several ways to cut the meat for a Cubano sandwich; however, shredded is the way to go.
  • 24. There you go... the perfect Cuban smoked pork. Keep the faith, and keep cooking.

PORK ROAST CUBANO



Pork Roast Cubano image

It takes me just minutes to prepare this recipe, and the slow cooker does the rest of the work! It's a one-dish meal that's real comfort food for my family. -Roxanne Chan, Albany, California

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 7h30m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 10

3 pounds boneless pork shoulder butt roast
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 medium sweet potato, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 small sweet red pepper, cubed
1 can (13.66 ounces) light coconut milk
1/2 cup salsa verde
1 teaspoon minced fresh gingerroot
2 green onions, thinly sliced
Sliced papaya

Steps:

  • In a large skillet, brown roast in oil on all sides. Transfer to a 5-qt. slow cooker. Add black beans, sweet potato and red pepper. In a small bowl, mix coconut milk, salsa and ginger; pour over meat., Cook, covered, on low 7-9 hours or until pork is tender. Sprinkle with green onions; serve with papaya.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 430 calories, Fat 24g fat (9g saturated fat), Cholesterol 101mg cholesterol, Sodium 322mg sodium, Carbohydrate 18g carbohydrate (6g sugars, Fiber 5g fiber), Protein 33g protein.

PORK CHOPS CUBANO WITH GARLIC-CITRUS SAUCE



Pork Chops Cubano with Garlic-Citrus Sauce image

A crunchy and tasty coating of garlic, onion, oregano, cumin, cilantro and cereal creates memorable baked chops with a garlic and citrus sauce.

Provided by By Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Entree

Time 45m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 cup Fiber One™ original bran cereal
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic
2 teaspoons grated orange peel
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon pepper
4 pork loin chops, 1/2 inch thick (4 oz each)
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tablespoons orange juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 400°F. Spray cookie sheet with cooking spray. Place cereal in resealable food-storage plastic bag; seal bag and crush with rolling pin or meat mallet (or crush in food processor).
  • In shallow dish, mix cereal, 1 tablespoon cilantro, 1 teaspoon garlic, the orange peel, onion powder, oregano, cumin and pepper. Dip pork chops into buttermilk; coat completely with cereal mixture. Place on cookie sheet.
  • Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until pork is no longer pink in center.
  • Meanwhile, in 1-quart saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Cook 1 tablespoon garlic in oil about 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until golden. Stir in lime and orange juices. Heat to boiling, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; stir in 2 tablespoons cilantro. Cover; refrigerate until serving time. Serve with pork chops.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 280, Carbohydrate 18 g, Cholesterol 70 mg, Fiber 7 g, Protein 27 g, SaturatedFat 3 1/2 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 130 mg, Sugar 3 g, TransFat 0 g

CUBANO PORK TENDERLOIN



Cubano Pork Tenderloin image

This recipes produces a delicious pork tenderloin and I highly recommend using the optional rum. It makes a beautiful presentation on a platter garnished with orange slices. Prep time is the time to marinate the tenderloins.

Provided by Dreamgoddess

Categories     Pork

Time 8h40m

Yield 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

2 (1 1/2 lb) pork tenderloin (about 3 lbs total)
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1/3 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup dark rum (optional)
5 minced garlic cloves
2 teaspoons oregano
2 teaspoons cumin
2 teaspoons salt
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Rinse the tenderloins, pat dry and place in a resealable plastic bag.
  • Combine the remaining ingredients and pour over the tenderloins.
  • Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours, turning occasionally.
  • Drain and discard the marinade; place the tenderloins in a foil lined baking pan.
  • Roast the tenderloins at 350 degrees until a meat thermometer registers 150 degrees, approximately 30-40 minutes.
  • Let the pork rest 5-10 minutes before slicing in 1/2" slices to serve.

GRILLED CUBANO: TURKEY, PORK AND SWISS WITH MUSTARD AND PICKLES



Grilled Cubano: Turkey, Pork and Swiss with Mustard and Pickles image

Provided by Ira Freehof

Categories     Sandwich     Cheese     Mustard     Pork     Poultry     turkey     Back to School     Lunch     Grill/Barbecue     Swiss Cheese     Sugar Conscious     Peanut Free     Tree Nut Free     Soy Free

Yield Makes 1 sandwich

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 tablespoon butter
1 hard roll
1 tablespoon mustard
4 slices Swiss cheese
2 ounces roast pork, sliced
2 ounces turkey breast (about 2 slices)
1 dill pickle, thinly sliced

Steps:

  • 1. Cut roll.
  • 2. Spread mustard on top of roll.
  • 3. Place two slices of cheese onto each side of roll.
  • 4. Stack cheese, pork, turkey, and pickle onto bottom of roll.
  • 5. Close sandwich.
  • 6. Melt a tablespoon of butter in pan.
  • 7. Press down on sandwich and grill over moderate heat for approximately 3-4 minutes on both sides, pressing down firmly from time to time.

PORK CUBANO



Pork Cubano image

Provided by Tyler Florence

Time 1h

Yield 6 to 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 16

2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 2-to-3-inch cubes
4 cups (1 quart) chicken stock
1 onion, sliced
2 bay leaves
2 cups champagne vinegar
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons kosher salt
1/2 cucumber, cut into a medium dice
Yellow mustard, as needed
8 ounces sliced Swiss cheese
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
8 ounces sliced deli ham
4 loaves white Cuban bread, halved lengthwise

Steps:

  • Combine the pork, chicken stock, onion and bay leaves in a pressure cooker. Cook on medium heat according to pot instructions for 35 minutes. Follow instructions for release and shred pork the pork. Set aside.
  • Whisk together the vinegar, sugar, water, chili flakes, garlic and salt in a medium bowl. Add the cucumber, toss to combine and let sit for 15 minutes. Scoop out the pickled cucumbers.
  • Build the sandwiches: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Spread mustard on both cut sides of a loaf of bread, top each side with a quarter of the pickled cucumbers. Layer a quarter each of the cheese, onion, ham and pork on the bottom of the loaf and sandwich with the top. Build the remaining sandwiches with the remaining ingredients. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake until the cheese melts. Serve!

Tips:

  • Opt for a pork shoulder roast with a good amount of marbling for a juicy and flavorful Cuban pork.
  • Using a slow cooker, Dutch oven, or pressure cooker allows for tender and fall-apart pork.
  • Marinate the pork overnight or for at least 4 hours to infuse it with flavors.
  • For a crispy crust, sear the pork in a hot skillet before slow cooking.
  • Add achiote paste or annatto seeds to the marinade for a vibrant red color and earthy flavor.
  • Use a combination of citrus juices, such as orange, lime, and grapefruit, to create a tangy and aromatic marinade.
  • Season the pork generously with a blend of spices, including cumin, oregano, garlic, and salt.
  • Baste the pork with the marinade or cooking juices during the cooking process to keep it moist and flavorful.
  • For a sandwich, use Cuban bread or hoagie rolls, and add traditional toppings like mojo sauce, thinly sliced ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles.
  • Serve the pork with sides like black beans and rice, tostones, or yuca fries for a complete and satisfying meal.

Conclusion:

Creating a delicious and authentic Cuban pork is all about using the right cut of meat, marinating it in a flavorful blend of spices and citrus juices, and cooking it low and slow until fall-apart tender. Whether you prefer the traditional method of roasting in the oven or using a slow cooker or pressure cooker for convenience, the result will be a juicy and flavorful pork that's perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or as a main course with sides. Remember to adjust the cooking time and temperature based on the method you choose, and don't forget the classic toppings and sides for an authentic Cuban culinary experience.

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