Easy Instant Pot Mojo Pork: Cuban Pork Roast for Sandwiches is a perfect blend of tangy citrus and savory spices, making it an ideal choice for an easy and delicious meal. This recipe captures the heart of Cuban cuisine, providing a flavorful and convenient sandwich that busy families and home cooks will love.
Mojo pork is a staple in Cuban cuisine, known for its delicious citrus-garlic marinade. Traditionally slow-cooked, this recipe speeds up the process using an Instant Pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The tender, juicy pork shoulder infused with orange and lime juice, garlic, and spices makes it an ideal filling for sandwiches.
Why We Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in a fraction of the time with the Instant Pot.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh citrus juices and spices.
- Versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or served with rice and beans.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.
If you like this Cuban Cuisine recipe, you may also love our Authentic Cuban Ropa Vieja Recipe or our Cuban Sandwich.
Jump to:
What Ingredients Will You Need?
- Pork shoulder: Opt for bone-in for maximum flavor.
- Orange juice: Freshly squeezed for the best taste.
- Lemon and lime juice: Adds tangy zest.
- Onion and garlic: Key for depth of flavor.
- Jalapeño and chili pepper: Adds a subtle heat.
- Bay leaves, dried oregano, cumin, paprika, kosher salt, and pepper: Essential spices for authentic mojo flavor.
For the Sandwich:
- Hoagie rolls: Perfectly soft and sturdy for holding the juicy pork.
- Provolone cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a mild, creamy flavor.
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions
How to Make Easy Instant Pot Mojo Pork - Cuban Pork Roast for Sandwiches
STEP ONE: Prepare the Marinade
Combine orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, onion, garlic, jalapeño, chili pepper, bay leaves, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in the Instant Pot. Add the pork shoulder, ensuring it is well-coated with the marinade.
STEP TWO: Pressure Cook the Pork
Set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 70 minutes (20 minutes per pound). Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Make sure the pork reaches a safe internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).
STEP THREE: Shred the Pork
Remove the pork and shred it using two forks. Mix the shredded pork with some of the cooking liquid for added moisture and flavor.
STEP FOUR: Assemble and Toast the Sandwiches
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice hoagie rolls in half and place them on a baking sheet. Layer the bottom half of each roll with provolone cheese. Place the sandwiches in the oven and toast until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes.
Remove from the oven and add a generous amount of shredded mojo pork on top of the cheese. Top with the remaining half of the hoagie roll.
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
- Pork shoulder: Boneless pork butt or pork loin.
- Provolone cheese: Swiss or mozzarella cheese.
- Hoagie rolls: Ciabatta or baguettes.
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
- Diet: Use gluten-free rolls for a gluten-free option.
- Spice: Increase jalapeños or add crushed red pepper for extra heat.
- Cuban Sandwich: Add ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles to make a pressed cuban sandwich.
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
This post shows some of our kitchen essentials. Please visit our shop if you would like to see more of our favorites. These are Amazon affiliate links and we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
- Instant Pot
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Forks for shredding
- Knife for slicing
How Should You Store This?
Store any leftover mojo pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze, store any leftover shredded pork in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.
What Are Some Expert Tips?
For the best flavor, let the pork marinate in the citrus and spice mixture for at least an hour before cooking.
Always use fresh citrus juices for the most vibrant flavor.
Reheat Instant Pot mojo pork in the microwave or on the stove with a bit of the cooking liquid to maintain moisture.
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Use leftover mojo pork in tacos with Fire Roasted Salsa and avocado.
- Add shredded pork to a Cuban-style rice bowl.
- Make a mojo pork salad with greens and citrus vinaigrette.
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Pair with black beans and rice for a traditional Cuban meal.
- Serve with a side of fried plantains for a sweet contrast.
- Serve alongside our Easy 1905 Salad (Copycat Recipe) from Columbia Restaurant.
- Complement with our Black Bean Soup with Dried Beans Slow Cooker recipe.
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Ropa Vieja
- Cuban Picadillo
- Pulled Pork Tacos
- Slow Cooker Chuck Roast with Tender Vegetables and Gravy
Related
More Cuban cuisine recipes you will love:
FAQ
Yes, you can make Mojo Pork in a slow cooker. Simply add the pork and marinade ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on high for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
Mojo Pork sandwiches pair well with a variety of sides such as black beans and rice, fried plantains, or a fresh citrus salad. These sides complement the Cuban flavors and add variety to the meal.
Store leftover Mojo Pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pork in a microwave or on the stove with a little bit of the cooking liquid to keep it moist. You can also freeze the pork in portions for up to 3 months.
📖 Recipe
Easy Instant Pot Mojo Pork: Cuban Pork Roast Sandwich
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Forks for shredding
- Knife for slicing
Ingredients
- 3.5 lbs bone-in pork shoulder
- Juice of 1 orange
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 onion quartered
- 1 head of garlic halved
- 1 jalapeño pepper seeded
- 1 chili pepper seeded
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Sandwich
- hoagie rolls
- provolone cheese
Instructions
- Place the pork shoulder in the Instant Pot.
- Add the orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, onion, garlic, jalapeño, chili pepper, bay leaves, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 1 hour 10 minutes (20 minutes per pound).
- Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Make sure the pork reaches a safe internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pork and shred it using two forks.
Sandwich Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice hoagie rolls in half and place them on a baking sheet.
- Layer the bottom half of each roll with provolone cheese.
- Place the sandwiches in the oven and toast until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and add a generous amount of shredded mojo pork on top of the cheese. Top with the remaining half of the hoagie roll and serve warm.
Nutrition
This Easy Instant Pot Mojo Pork - Cuban Pork Roast for Sandwiches is a flavorful and convenient dish perfect for busy families.
Try it today, and don't forget to share your results with us!
Important Food Safety Tips
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
- Create a clean work area.
- Wash hands after touching raw meat or seafood.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
- Never leave cooking food unattended.
- Use oils with a high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds.
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove.
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
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