Cuban Mojo Pork Tenderloin
User Reviews
4.7
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Prep Time
30 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Marinating Time
1 hr
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Total Time
1 hr 55 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
272 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Cuban
Cuban Mojo Pork Tenderloin
Description
The preparation begins by trimming the pork tenderloin and marinating it in a mixture of olive oil, fresh citrus juices, garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, oregano, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes. This combination yields a vibrant marinade with acidity and herbal notes that tenderize and flavor the meat. Half of the marinade is reserved for basting or serving as a sauce.
Searing the tenderloin in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat creates a caramelized crust that adds texture and flavor. The pork is then roasted in a preheated 400°F oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, ensuring it remains juicy and slightly pink inside. The result is tender pork with citrus brightness and seasoned warmth from the herbs and spices.
This tenderloin can be served sliced with the reserved marinade as a sauce or alongside rice and vegetables. The marinade’s balance of orange and lime juice with garlic and spices complements the pork without overpowering the natural meat flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin about 1 ¼ pounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil divided use
- ⅔ cup orange juice fresh
- ⅓ cup lime juice fresh
- 2 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons cilantro chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Trim any fat and silverskin (silver colored connective tissue) from the tenderloin. Mix 2 tablespoons olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, cumin, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes together in a bowl. Pour about half of the marinade into a one-gallon resealable plastic bag. Add the pork to the bag, close and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. Pour the other half of the marinade into a small saucepan to use for the sauce.
- When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 400°F. Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works well) over medium high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade and add it to the pan. Sear the tenderloin in the pan, turning it every couple of minutes, until it’s nicely browned on all sides.
- Place the skillet in the oven and cook about 15-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork measures 145°F on a meat thermometer. Alternatively, the tenderloin can be cooked on an outdoor grill. Remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes.
- While the pork is resting, pour any pan drippings into the saucepan with the reserved marinade. Simmer on the stove for a few minutes until thickened slightly. Pour the sauce in a bowl.
- Cut the pork into ½-inch slices and arrange on a platter. Serve the mojo sauce on the side.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 272 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 0g | |
| Calories | 272kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | 2% |
| Protein | 30g | 60% |
| Fat | 14g | 22% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Trans Fat | 0.03g | 2% |
| Cholesterol | 92mg | 31% |
| Sodium | 370mg | 15% |
| Potassium | 668mg | 14% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 143IU | 3% |
| Vitamin C | 23mg | 26% |
| Calcium | 38mg | 4% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.7
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