Teresa's Recipes
Masitas de Puerco
Masitas de Puerco is a beloved Cuban dish that captures the essence of traditional Caribbean flavors. Tender chunks of pork shoulder are marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices, garlic, and aromatic spices, then fried to perfection, creating a crispy golden exterior that gives way to juicy, flavorful meat. Often enjoyed as a main dish or a savory appetizer, these morsels of pork are sure to transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Havana.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes Pork shoulder
- 4 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1/4 cup Lime juice
- 1/4 cup Orange juice
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon, dried Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
- for frying, about 2 cups Vegetable oil
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4-6
- Dish Type: Main Course/Appetizer
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 2 hours to overnight
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 5g
- Protein: 50g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 2g
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, orange juice, lime juice, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Add the pork cubes to the marinade and toss well to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
- In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and drain off any excess marinade.
- Working in batches, carefully add the pork cubes to the hot oil. Fry the pork until crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried pork cubes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve the Masitas de Puerco hot, garnished with lime wedges and fresh cilantro if desired. Pair with rice and beans for a complete meal, or enjoy as a delicious appetizer.