An authentic Cuban sandwich must have roast pork in it to be worth its salt, and if you want to do it right, make lechón asado. It's not just for sandwiches; this stands up on its own as a main dish with some rice and black beans.

Lechón Asado (Cuban-Style Roast Pork)

Ingredients:

First, make the mojo marinade.

15 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons salt
2 cups orange juice
1 cup lemon juice
1 cup lime juice
1 cup onion, chopped
1 teaspoon oregano
1 cup olive oil

2 pounds boneless pork shoulder or loin of pork

Preparation:

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl or container. Add the pork and let marinate 4 to 5 hours or overnight.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Place the pork and some marinade in a baking dish. Slowly roast in the oven until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 155 degrees F. Don't let the meat dry out; spoon more marinade over it if needed.

Remove from oven and let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Related:
Cuban Sandwich
Recipe: Cuban Black Bean Soup
Cuban Mojo Marinade & Dipping Sauce
Recipe: Sweet Fried Plantains

(Image: Kathryn Hill)