Roast Cuban Pork Tenderloin

This Cuban Pork Tenderloin marinated in citrus and herbs will give your taste buds a true treat. It is perfect for a simple weeknight meal at home or great to whip up and share with friends. Pair it with rice, roast potatoes or beans, or enjoy it as is! 

This recipe was originally published in the winter of 2019 but has been updated to include more information, tips and how-to pictures.

There’s just something so addictive about this roasted pork recipe. Not only does the Cuban marinade take the flavour and taste over the top, but the end result of roasted pork makes it fork-tender as well.

When I have a recipe like this that’s a huge hit every time I make it, you know that I just have to stop and share it with all of you. 

This simple Cuban mojo pork recipe will show you exactly what your oven is capable of. Long gone are the days when you have to heat the grill to make a flavorful dish like this! I also love how the added orange juice gives the marinade that extra citrus taste! 

Since I’m always looking for different protein entree options for the family, this easy pork tenderloin lands high on my list. It’s a great way to get everyone excited about dinner because the flavour is literally that good.

The next time you’re craving a Cuban dish that is fast and easy to make, use this Cuban-style pork tenderloin as your guide! (and if you’re lucky, you’ll have some leftovers the next day to be able to enjoy that taste again!) 

Another one of my favourite pork recipes that are easy to make is Lemon Basil Pork Chops.

Where did Mojo Pork Originate?

Cuban mojo originated in the Canary Islands. It has branched off of the mojo sauces that were created there and is now the basis for many different Cuban dishes. While the ingredients can vary slightly to make a mojo sauce or marinade, the technique for creating it is the same. 

Ingredients And Substitutions

Pork loin – You can use fresh or frozen (and thawed) pork loin for this recipe. Use what you have at home for ease. Pork shoulder and Pork Butt also work well!

Olive oil – Olive oil works great for the marinade and does an excellent job of helping to season the meat. 

Orange zest – Fresh orange zest is best and adds a nice citrus flavour. Lemon zest could also be an option. 

Orange juice – Fresh orange juice would be delicious, but store-bought works fine as well. 

Lime juice – The lime juice paired with the other herbs and fresh cilantro creates a delicious flavour. The acidity from the citrus also works to tenderize the meat.

Fresh cilantro – You have to use fresh cilantro for this dish! 

Fresh mint – You also need to be sure that you’re using fresh mint! 

Garlic cloves – I love using garlic cloves; however, garlic powder could be used in a pinch. 

Oregano – I think that using minced oregano or dried oregano is both fine. 

Ground cumin – Cumin is a must as it really adds a depth of flavour. 

How To Make Roast Cuban Pork Loin 

The steps below are simple and easy to do. Just follow along and be sure to pay close attention to the marinade time for the best results. The complete directions and ingredient measurements can be found in the printable recipe card listed below.

Start by making the marinade. Add the olive oil, orange zest, orange juice, lime juice, cilantro, mint, and garlic into a food processor. Pulse until chopped up well. 

Next, add the marinade to a plastic bag or bowl and add the cumin and oregano. Next, add the pork loin and cover it entirely with the marinade. Place the bag or bowl into the fridge overnight or for several hours at least. 

Preheat the oven to 400°F and put a wire rack on top of a baking sheet. Then place the pork loin on the wire rack and put it in the oven. Roast the pork for 30 minutes. 

After 30 minutes have passed, lower the heat to 350° degrees and roast for another 60 to 80 minutes. Please note everyone’s oven is different so keep an eye on the internal temperature as the cook time nears the last half hour or so.

Take the pork loin out of the oven and tent it with foil. Be sure to let the meat rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving. 

How to know when pork is done

Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check and make sure that the pork is cooked all the way through. Insert the meat thermometer in the thickest part of the pork. As long as the reading is at least 160°F, the pork should be safe to eat. 

How To Store Roasted Pork Tenderloin

To keep this pork recipe fresh and ready to enjoy again, store leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. 

Roasted pork is also freezer-safe, too. You can easily prepare yummy freezer meals with cooked pork (and uncooked pork!) as well! 

Tips 

Even though this is a simple recipe for pork, there are a few tips that may help when you’re making it. 

Use fresh herbs – While I stated above that some dried herbs are okay to use, I do stand by the fact that fresh herbs are best! Their freshness really does add so much more flavour! 

Marinate – For the best flavour of pork, let the tenderloin marinate for at least 8 hours. I also recommend poking holes in the tenderloin with a fork so that the marinade soaks in.

Enjoy eating it for other meals – This pork is great on sandwiches and on a bun. It’s even delicious sliced over a salad!

What to serve with Roasted Pork Tenderloin

Since this is such a versatile pork recipe, you have options on what you can serve with it! I think that a nice side of beans or rice would pair perfectly with the Cuban marinade flavours. 

A side salad is always a great idea as well. And if all else fails, steamed veggies are never a bad choice. 

Three Wines To Pair With Pork Tenderloin:

Sauvignon Blanc – Sauvignon Blanc with its herbaceous notes pairs well with other green herbs such as cilantro and mint in this recipe.

Pinot Gris – Pairs well with white meats or recipes that include flavours such as lemons, oranges, peach and apricots. Will go great with this recipe’s orange marinade.

Pinot Noir – A versatile wine that is high in acidity and low in tannins pairs well with duck, chicken, turkey and pork.

Can I use other cuts of pork for this recipe?  

Yes, you can use other cuts of pork. Pork shoulder or pork loin chops work well, too – just be sure to follow the same steps to marinate no matter what cut of pork you end up using. 

Can this be made as a freezer meal? 

Absolutely. You can easily cut up the pork tenderloin and pair it with veggies and freeze it for later. This pork dish is a great way to meal prep several freezer meals for future dinner recipes. 

More Freezer Meal Ideas

The flavours of this Cuban mojo pork recipe will transport your taste buds to a whole new world. Pair up with a simple side dish and enjoy every tender bite! 

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