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Every time I make Mojo Pork Bowls, I’m reminded of the vibrant flavors of Cuba. As soon as the savory aroma of marinated pork fills my kitchen, I know I’m in for a treat. This recipe is my go-to for satisfying those cravings for hearty, homemade goodness, especially on busy weeknights. With tender, shredded pork bathed in a zesty citrus sauce, each bowl is not just a meal—it’s an experience.

Imagine layering beautifully seasoned black beans, creamy avocado, and a bright mango salsa over warm rice—all nestled together in a comforting bowl. What I love most is how customizable this dish is; you can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, whether you’re feeling like chicken, tofu, or even a lower-carb twist. Trust me, once you try these Mojo Pork Bowls, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why are Mojo Pork Bowls so appealing?

Versatility: Mojo Pork Bowls adapt to any palate, allowing you to swap out proteins and veggies effortlessly. Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with a fusion of zesty citrus and smoky spices that dance on your taste buds. Time-Saving Delight: With options for slow cooking or oven preparation, you can fit these succulent bowls into your busy schedule. Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with a dish that’s both beautiful and satisfying, perfect for gatherings. Hearty Nutrition: Packed with high protein and fiber, these bowls nourish your body while keeping your taste buds happy. Indulge in this delightful recipe and discover the magic of homemade comfort food!

Mojo Pork Bowls Ingredients

• Get ready to create a flavorful masterpiece!

For the Pork Marinade

Pork Shoulder or Butt Roast – Your main protein source; opt for larger cuts for extra flavor when shredded.
Olive Oil – Adds richness to the marinade; avocado oil can be a great alternative if you’re looking for a change.
Fresh Cilantro – Provides a refreshing herbal touch; substituting with parsley offers a milder flavor if you prefer.
Medium Orange (zested) – Brightens the marinade and adds sweetness; make sure to zest before juicing for maximum flavor.
Fresh Orange Juice – Key for that citrusy zing in the marinade; fresh juice is best, though bottled works in a pinch.
Fresh Lime Juice – Balances sweetness with acidity, enhancing the dish—fresh is always recommended!
Fresh Mint Leaves – Improves freshness and pairs well with cilantro; basil is a nice swap if you’re feeling adventurous.
Garlic (minced) – Elevates the dish’s aroma and depth; nothing beats fresh garlic!
Dried Oregano – Introduces earthy flavors; Mexican oregano adds an authentic Cuban touch.
Ground Cumin – Delivers warmth and spice; vital for the Cuban flavor profile.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning, adjusting to your taste is key; kosher salt helps with texture.

For the Black Bean Mixture

Black Beans (3 cans) – Hearty, filling, and high in fiber; pinto beans are a great alternative as well.
Yellow Onion (diced) – Adds sweetness and depth; you can swap for shallots if you prefer a milder taste.
Smoked Paprika – Brings a delightful smoky flavor to the beans; optional but recommended!

For the Toppings

Mango Salsa (1.5 cups) – Bright and fresh, it’s the perfect topping; try pineapple salsa if you’re looking for a sweet change!
Avocados (2, chopped) – Creamy goodness that enhances both texture and taste; guacamole works fine too!
Corn Tortillas (optional) – Serve them on the side for a traditional touch.
Hot Cooked Rice (optional) – A hearty base to elevate your Mojo Pork Bowls; skip for a lighter version if desired.

Dive into preparing these Mojo Pork Bowls and savor the blend of flavors that make this dish a family favorite!

How to Make Mojo Pork Bowls

Marinate the Pork: Blend the marinade ingredients—olive oil, cilantro, orange zest & juice, lime juice, mint, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper—until smooth. Add the pork to a bag or bowl, cover with marinade, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Prepare Black Beans: In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté diced onions until they turn translucent. Add minced garlic and then stir in black beans along with smoked paprika and other spices. Cook for about 5 minutes and partially mash the beans to create a delightful texture.
Cook the Pork:

Slow Cooker: Place the marinated pork in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours until it’s tender and pulls apart easily.
Oven: Alternatively, place the pork in a greased Dutch oven and cook at 300°F for about 2 hours, or until it becomes fork-tender.

Assemble Bowls: In serving bowls, layer the seasoned black beans, shredded pork, and top with a scoop of mango salsa and chopped avocado. Garnish with cilantro and mint, and drizzle with any reserved marinade for added flavor. Serve immediately.

Optional: Serve with warm corn tortillas or a side of fresh salad for an extra treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Mojo Pork Bowls Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Mojo Pork Bowls and tailor them perfectly to your taste.

Chicken Thighs: Swap pork for boneless chicken thighs, marinate, and cook the same way for a lighter twist.
Tofu Option: For a vegetarian alternative, replace the pork with pressed, marinated tofu, allowing the bold flavors to shine through.
Cauliflower Rice: Serve your bowls on a bed of cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option without sacrificing flavor.
Extra Spice: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the black beans for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the salsa.
Creamy Dressing: Drizzle a cilantro-lime crema over your assembled bowls for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
Salsa Variety: Switch up the mango salsa; peach or pineapple can provide a delightful fresh twist, offering different fruity notes.
Pico de Gallo: Try topping with homemade pico de gallo instead of salsa for a fresh, tangy crunch that elevates each bite.
Sweet Potatoes: Incorporate roasted sweet potato cubes for added sweetness and a hearty texture that complements the dish beautifully.

Expert Tips for Mojo Pork Bowls

Marination Time: Marinate the pork for up to 2 days for deeper flavor. This allows the spices to penetrate thoroughly.
Keep It Moist: If using a slow cooker, ensure it’s tightly covered to retain moisture while cooking to avoid dry pork.
Avoid Overcooking: Cook until the pork shreds easily; overcooking can lead to dry, less appealing meat.
Adjust Spices: When preparing black beans, taste and adjust spices as necessary to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
Serve Fresh: For best texture and flavor, enjoy these Mojo Pork Bowls fresh. They’re best when assembled just before eating!

How to Store and Freeze Mojo Pork Bowls

Fridge: Store assembled Mojo Pork Bowls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep toppings like avocado and salsa separate to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze pork and black beans separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To retain moisture, reheat in a microwave covered with a damp paper towel or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the pork and black beans in advance, making it quick to assemble your bowls for busy weeknights.

What to Serve with Mojo Pork Bowls?

Dive into a world of vibrant flavors by complementing these tantalizing bowls with the perfect sides and touches.

Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice adds a delightful tang and freshness, perfectly offsetting the rich pork. It’s the ultimate base for soaking up those delicious juices.
Grilled Street Corn: Charred to perfection, this sweet, smoky corn slathered in lime and cheese harmonizes beautifully with the tropical notes of the salsa.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad made with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty bowls.
Tortilla Chips and Guacamole: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with creamy guacamole create a fun, shareable appetizer that suits any gathering around the dinner table.
Plantain Chips: Paper-thin, crispy plantain chips offer a satisfying crunch that enhances the overall experience of your meal, while their slight sweetness balances the savory elements.
Cuban Black Bean Soup: A warm, hearty soup filled with spices and flavors improves the meal’s comfort factor, making it feel like a cozy family feast.
Mojito Cocktail: Sip on this refreshing drink made with mint and lime for a delightful, cooling effect alongside your succulent mojo pork.
Flan for Dessert: Indulge in this rich, creamy, and caramel-topped treat as a sweet finish. Its velvety texture and sweetness are the perfect way to round out this delightful feast.

Make Ahead Options

These Mojo Pork Bowls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal even on your busiest nights! You can marinate the pork shoulder up to 24 hours in advance to deepen the flavor; just remember to refrigerate it in a sealed container or plastic bag. For the black beans, you can prepare them up to 3 days ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which will help save time when assembling your bowls. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the marinated pork as directed and reheat the black beans over low heat. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll have restaurant-quality Mojo Pork Bowls ready with minimal effort!

Mojo Pork Bowls Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pork for Mojo Pork Bowls?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for pork shoulder or butt roast as they are both flavorful and shred beautifully when cooked. Look for cuts with a good amount of marbling. Avoid slim cuts, as they may end up dry.

How should I store leftover Mojo Pork Bowls?
You can store assembled Mojo Pork Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a good idea to keep toppings like avocado and salsa separate for optimal freshness!

Can I freeze Mojo Pork Bowls?
Yes, you can! I often freeze the pork and black beans separately for up to 2 months. Just remember to let them cool completely before storing. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat gently to preserve moisture.

What should I do if my pork is tough after cooking?
Very! If your pork turns out tough, it’s likely because it didn’t cook long enough. If using a slow cooker, ensure you’re cooking on low for at least 6 hours. If using the oven, check that your pork has reached a fork-tender state by cooking it about 2 hours at 300°F. Slow cooking allows for that beautiful tender texture that we love!

Are there any dietary considerations for Mojo Pork Bowls?
Of course! If you’re accommodating allergies or dietary restrictions, ensure to use gluten-free seasoning and check labels for any potential allergens. Plus, if you’re cooking for pets, avoid any seasoning or ingredients that are harmful to them, such as onions or garlic. You can easily substitute the pork with tofu or chicken thighs for a lighter option!

How long can I keep the marinated pork in the fridge?
You can marinate the pork for up to 2 days! In fact, the longer it sits, the more the flavors develop, making it even tastier when you finally cook it. Just make sure it’s covered well to keep it fresh!