Description
Authentic Cuban Mojo Criollo is a vibrant and tangy marinade packed with garlic, sour orange juice, and aromatic oregano. Perfect for marinating meats or as a zesty sauce, this traditional recipe blends bright citrus flavors with a punch of garlic for an unforgettable Cuban taste experience.
Ingredients
Garlic Paste
- 1 head garlic (8-10 large cloves)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for mashing garlic)
Sour Orange Juice
- 1 cup fresh navel orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
Marinade
- 1/3 cup minced white onion
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/3 cup oil (neutral oil like vegetable or olive oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Make the garlic paste: Place the peeled garlic cloves and 1/4 teaspoon salt into a mortar and pestle. Mash and grind the garlic until it forms a smooth paste. The salt helps to break down the garlic and release its flavor.
- Prepare sour orange juice: If you don't have sour orange juice, combine 1 cup fresh navel orange juice, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, and 1/4 cup fresh lime juice in a bowl. Stir together until well mixed to mimic the traditional sour orange flavor.
- Assemble the marinade: In a large jar with a lid, combine the garlic paste, minced white onion, sour orange juice, dried oregano, oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are thoroughly blended.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Open the jar and taste the marinade. It should be garlicky, citrusy, bright, tangy, and slightly sour. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference. Remember to shake well before each use.
Notes
- You can substitute the oil with extra virgin olive oil for a richer flavor.
- Allow the mojo to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor penetration when used on meats.
- This marinade works beautifully for pork, chicken, seafood, and even vegetables.
- Sour orange juice is traditional, but the citrus juice mix works well as a fresh alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Marinade
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Cuban
