The enticing fusion of citrus juices and fresh herbs gives a flavorful punch to this crispy pork roast, a delight from Puerto Rican cuisine known as pernil. An easy-to-follow recipe, it promises juicy pork roast with a garlic-citrus infused crisp outer layer.
In a large bowl, mix together the chopped cilantro, fresh orange juice, fresh lime juice, minced garlic cloves, chopped oregano, extra-virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and ground black pepper to create the marinade.
2
Add the pork shoulder to a large resealable plastic bag, pour in the marinade, seal the bag and ensure the pork is thoroughly coated. Let the pork marinate at room temperature for 2-3 hours, flipping the bag every hour.
COOKING
3
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Remove the pork from the bag, discarding any leftover marinade, and season all over with a touch more salt and pepper. Place the pork, fat side up, in a large roasting pan.
4
Roast the pork in the preheated oven for 1 hour, until the top is slightly browned. Thereafter, reduce the oven temperature to 300°F and continue roasting for 4 hours, or until the pork is tender and the fat cap is crispy.
SERVING
5
Remove the roasted pork from the oven, and let it rest on the cutting board for around 30 minutes to reabsorb juices.
6
Before serving, shred or carve the pork and garnish with crispy cap pieces. Serve hot along with lime wedges for an enhanced citrusy tang.