Enjoy the Exotic Flavors of the Carribean – Try Cuban Pork

I love trying new recipes or making new flavor experiences.  Some are great, some not so much but that is what growing is all about.  Recently, I had the opportunity to enjoy a great Cuban pork sandwich.  I loved it!  The flavors were fresh and enticing not to mention the pork was juicy and tender.  Here is my replication.  It turned out pretty much like the sandwich I had enjoyed.  One thing: I changed the crusty roll out for a fresh tortilla to same some on the carbs.

Cuban Pork

1 pork roast, trimmed of excess fat

2 – 3 large oranges, juiced with the “orange meat” reserved

1 bottle of dark beer, I used Honey Brown

2 t ground cumin

1 t thyme

1 1/2 t Aleppo crushed pepper flakes

1 t oregano

4 cloves garlic, minced

salt and pepper to taste

Season all sides of the roast with the cumin, pepper flakes, salt and pepper.

Brown the roast on all sides in a heavy skillet with a little olive oil (I used some bacon fat for additional flavor).

Transfer to a slow cooker or an oven safe roasting pan.  Add the beer, orange juice and meat, thyme, oregano, and garlic.  Set the slow cooker to cook for 6 hours on high or the oven for 6 hour at 275 degrees F.

When the roast is done, remove from the slow cooker or oven and place on a cutting board.  Carefully shred the meat.  Serve with tortilla, Queso Blanco (Mexican cheese),  avocados, salsa, fresh cilantro, fresh limes, etc.

Enjoy!