Mojo de Puerco (Pork Marinade)

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A zesty garlic and citrus marinade for grilled pork, perfect for Puerto Rican-style barbecue. This puerto rican-inspired quick meals ready in about 35 minutes blends pork loin, garlic, lime into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.0 (10 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves 4 Puerto Rican cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 lime juices, 1 finely chopped onion, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Step 2: Add 2 lbs pork loin cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours.
  3. Step 3: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill pork for 6-8 minutes per side, or until charred and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Serve with lime wedges and grilled vegetables.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Mojo de Puerco (Pork Marinade) take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (15 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Mojo de Puerco (Pork Marinade)?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Mojo de Puerco (Pork Marinade)?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Mojo de Puerco (Pork Marinade) for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Mojo de Puerco (Pork Marinade)?

Puerto Rican quick meals like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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