Lechon Asado (Roast Pork)

Ingredients

• about 3630 g Pork shoulder (Boston butt)
• 1 cup Orange juice
• 1/2 cup Lime juice
• 8 cloves Garlic
• 2 tsp Oregano
• 1 tsp Cumin
• 2 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Black pepper
• 2 tbsp Olive oil

Original measure retained: its cup/spoon or fluid-volume standard is unspecified.

Instructions

1. 1Using a sharp knife, make several slits, about 2.54 cm deep and 2.54 cm apart, all over the about 3630 g Pork shoulder. This helps the marinade penetrate the meat.
2. 2In a blender or food processor, combine the 1 cup of Orange juice, 1/2 cup of Lime juice, 8 cloves of Garlic, 2 tsp of Oregano, 1 tsp of Cumin, 2 tsp of Salt, 1 tsp of Black pepper, and 2 tbsp of Olive oil. Blend until the mixture is smooth and the garlic is fully pureed.
3. 3Place the prepared about 3630 g Pork shoulder in a large, non-reactive container or a large zip-top bag. Pour the blended marinade over the pork, ensuring it seeps into all the slits. Cover the container or seal the bag, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight (up to 12 hours), to allow the flavors to meld.
4. 4Preheat your oven to about 165°C (160°C).
5. 5Transfer the marinated about 3630 g Pork shoulder to a large roasting pan, pouring any remaining marinade over the top. Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 3 to 3.5 hours, until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 82°C when measured with a meat thermometer, and the meat is very tender when pierced with a fork.
6. 6Carefully remove the aluminum foil from the roasting pan. Continue baking the pork for an additional 30 to 60 minutes, or until the skin becomes golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 88°C for optimal shredding.
7. 7Remove the roasting pan from the oven and let the Lechon Asado rest, uncovered, for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful result. After resting, use two forks to shred the pork directly in the pan, mixing it with the pan juices.
8. 8Serve the hot Lechon Asado immediately with accompaniments such as rice, black beans, and plantains.

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