Instant Pot Mojo Pork Recipe

This Instant Pot Mojo Pork Recipe is a flavor-packed, Cuban-inspired dish featuring juicy, garlicky pork infused with citrus and spices—all in record time thanks to your trusty Instant Pot. It’s everything you crave in slow-roasted Mojo pork, but far quicker and honestly, even juicier. Prepare to fall head-over-heels for this weeknight (or crowd-pleasing) favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for this Instant Pot Mojo Pork Recipe is deceivingly simple, but each item plays a critical role in layering that authentic Cuban flavor. Here’s what makes every component shine and how you can put your own spin on it.

• Boneless Pork Shoulder (3 1/2 pounds): This cut breaks down beautifully and turns ultra-juicy after pressure cooking—don’t trim all the fat, as it brings rich flavor and tenderness.
• Garlic Cloves (8): Pungent, aromatic, and essential for that true mojo marinade punch.
• Grapefruit (juiced): The secret citrus ingredient that gives mojo its signature tang—fresh is key!
• Lime (zested and juiced): Bright lime cuts through the richness and balances the sweetness—zest brings extra zing.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps meld marinade flavors.
• Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons): Just enough for subtle caramel notes without making things sweet.
• Dried (or Fresh) Oregano (2 tsp/½ Tbsp): Brings earthiness and authenticity; feel free to use fresh for even more vibrancy.
• Ground Cumin (2 teaspoons): Adds that unmistakable warm, smoky undertone.
• Kosher Salt (1 tablespoon): The backbone—don’t skimp! Proper seasoning brings it all together.
• Bay Leaf (1): For subtle, herbal depth during cooking—just remove after.
• For serving: Tortillas, Cilantro, Avocado, Hot Sauce, Salsa, Lime Wedges: These turn the finished pork into a fiesta—totally customizable for your style!

Variations

This Instant Pot Mojo Pork Recipe was made for customization! Don’t be shy about tailoring the marinade or serving options based on what you have or crave—it’s super adaptable for lots of dietary needs and flavor preferences.

• Swap Citrus: If grapefruit isn’t your thing or not in season, swap in a mix of orange and lemon juice for a slightly different mojo vibe.
• Make it Spicy: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the marinade, or toss sliced jalapeños onto the finished pork for extra heat.
• Ditch the Tortillas: Serve your mojo pork over Cuban black beans and rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even with plantains for true island flair.
• Slow Cooker Mojo Pork: No Instant Pot? No worries—this transforms wonderfully in the slow cooker (see instructions below) with the same delicious result.

How to Make Instant Pot Mojo Pork Recipe

Step 1: Make the Mojo Marinade

In a blender or mini food processor, blend together the garlic, fresh grapefruit juice, lime zest and juice, olive oil, brown sugar, oregano, cumin, and kosher salt. This creates a marinade that’s vibrant, tangy, and loaded with flavor—take a quick whiff and you’ll see why the aroma alone is irresistible!

Step 2: Marinate the Pork

Pour the marinade into a large zip-top bag with the pork pieces (and toss in that bay leaf). Massage the marinade all around the pork, then let it sit at room temperature for an hour, or refrigerate overnight if you’ve planned ahead. The longer it sits, the deeper the flavors soak in, making the pork all the more craveable.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Transfer everything—pork, marinade, and bay leaf—directly into your Instant Pot. Make sure the sealing ring is in place, lock the lid, and set the vent to “sealing.” Select MANUAL mode, set to HIGH pressure for 80 minutes, and let the magic happen. It’ll take about 10 minutes to reach pressure, but then you can just sit back and let science (and serious flavor) do its thing.

Step 4: Natural Release & Shred

After the cook time ends, let the pressure release naturally—this helps keep the pork supremely tender. Once the lid opens, carefully remove the pork to a large bowl (leave those delicious juices in the pot). Shred the pork with two forks until it’s perfectly pulled and ready for action.

Step 5: Reduce the Juices & Serve

Hit SAUTÉ mode on your Instant Pot and boil the cooking liquids for about 5 minutes to intensify the flavor, then skim extra fat. Ladle about a cup of this reduced mojo over the shredded pork—this is where all the mouthwatering, citrusy-savory flavor clings to every bite. Season with extra salt to taste, then pile the pork onto tortillas with your favorite toppings (cilantro, avocado, salsa, hot sauce, lime wedges—the works!).

How to Serve Instant Pot Mojo Pork Recipe

Garnishes

Top your juicy Instant Pot Mojo Pork Recipe with a shower of fresh cilantro, creamy avocado chunks, and a generous squeeze of lime. Want a little kick? Drizzle with your favorite hot sauce or a dollop of zesty salsa to really make the flavors pop.

Side Dishes

This pork loves company! Classic Cuban black beans and rice are a must for a full-on Caribbean spread, but it’s also dynamite with grilled corn, simple green salads, crispy tostones, or even a tangy slaw. Feeling lighter? Go for lettuce wraps or a grain bowl for an easy weeknight twist.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond tacos! Build vibrant Cuban bowls layered with rice, beans, and mojo pork; stuff soft rolls for unforgettable sandwiches; or top loaded nachos for next-level party fare. For a fun family dinner, set up a “mojo pork bar” with all the fixings and let everyone make their masterpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover pork completely before transferring it to an airtight container with a bit of the juices (to keep it moist and flavorful). It’ll keep happy in the fridge for 4-5 days and is perfect for meal prep, lunches, or late-night snacking!

Freezing

This Instant Pot Mojo Pork Recipe freezes like a dream. Spoon cooled pork and some of its sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge and you’ll have Cuban flavor ready at a moment’s notice for up to 2 months!

Reheating

Gently reheat your mojo pork on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of leftover cooking liquid if needed. For a crispy, irresistible finish, spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes—those golden edges are next-level.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a supremely juicy, flavor-packed dinner that feels like a mini-vacation to Havana (without the hours of roasting), this Instant Pot Mojo Pork Recipe is your ticket. I can’t wait for you to try it—be warned, though: it might just become a staple on your table for years to come!

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