Cuban Inspired Instant Pot Pulled Pork is like a fiesta in your mouth, where tender, juicy pork meets a symphony of spices that makes your taste buds dance. Imagine the intoxicating aroma wafting through your kitchen, teasing your senses as the Instant Pot works its magic. It’s the kind of dish that begs to be shared at family gatherings or cozy nights in, making mouths water and hearts sing.
This delightful recipe is not just about flavor; it’s about memories. I remember the first time I made Cuban Inspired Instant Pot Pulled Pork for friends. Their eyes widened, forks paused mid-air, and then came the chorus of “wow!” It was a moment that solidified my love for cooking and creating joyous experiences around food. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cuban-inspired dish is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
- Bursting with flavors from cumin and garlic, it delights every palate.
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any plate.
- Versatile enough to serve in tacos or as a main dish, this pulled pork will steal the show!
I once served this dish at a potluck, and let’s just say my friends still talk about it—mostly because I may have hoarded the leftovers for myself.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pork Shoulder: A great cut for pulling apart easily; look for one with good marbling for extra flavor.
Onion: Sweet onions bring out the natural sweetness; slice them thinly for quick caramelization.
Garlic: Fresh cloves are best; they add depth and richness to the overall flavor profile.
Cumin: A must-have spice that brings warmth and an earthy flavor; opt for ground cumin rather than whole seeds.
Oregano: Dried oregano adds a hint of freshness; it’s essential for that classic Cuban taste.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brightens up the flavor and tenderizes the meat beautifully.
Lime Juice: Adds acidity that balances the richness of the pork; fresh lime juice is preferable.
Bay Leaves: These aromatics infuse the dish with subtle herbal notes during cooking.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to personal taste preferences.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness better while enhancing flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cuban Inspired Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and chop your onion and garlic ahead of time for smooth sailing later on. Having everything ready helps keep things organized and less chaotic.
Sauté Aromatics in Instant Pot: Turn on your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add a splash of oil then toss in sliced onions and minced garlic until they soften and release their fragrant aroma—about 3-5 minutes should do!
Add Pork and Seasonings: Place your pork shoulder into the pot. Sprinkle generously with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth over everything. Don’t be shy with those spices!
Pressure Cook That Flavor In!: Seal the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 60 minutes. Don’t worry if you can’t hear it over your stomach growling—it’s working hard!
Release Pressure & Shred Pork: Once done cooking, carefully release pressure following manufacturer instructions. Remove pork shoulder onto a cutting board and shred using two forks—it should fall apart effortlessly!
Mix with Sauce & Serve!: Return shredded pork back into the pot with all those delicious juices. Stir everything together until well combined—this is where the magic happens! Serve warm on tortillas or over rice.
Now you’re ready to impress family or friends with your amazing Cuban Inspired Instant Pot Pulled Pork! Enjoy every bite of this flavorful journey!
Content
Tip: Use a citrus marinade for extra flavor. Citrus brightens the dish, giving it a fresh kick. I once had a friend who thought lemon was just for drinks, but after trying my pulled pork, he never looked back!
Tip: Sear before pressure cooking for rich flavor. Searing caramelizes the meat, creating a delicious crust that adds depth. My first attempt at this left me thinking, “Where’s the flavor?” Searing changed everything!
Tip: Allow the meat to rest post-cooking. Resting helps juices redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy pork. I learned this lesson after serving dry pork once; it was a sad day!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the pork for a few minutes before adding spices and liquids. This enhances flavor and builds a savory base. Follow up with pressure cooking to lock in those delicious juices.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional spices for your favorites, like smoked paprika or chipotle powder. Adding some diced pineapple during cooking can also give an unexpected sweet twist that’s simply delightful.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, gently warm on low heat in a pan to keep it moist and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure perfect pulled pork, always check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 195°F for optimal tenderness.
- Keep your seasoning balanced; too much salt can overpower the meat’s natural flavors.
- Lastly, don’t rush the resting stage—it makes all the difference!
After my first Cuban-inspired meal with friends, they were begging for seconds! It became our go-to recipe for gatherings and celebrations—who knew pulled pork could spark such joy?
FAQ
Can I use other cuts of pork?
Absolutely! Shoulder or butt work best but other cuts can be used too.
How do I know when it’s done cooking?
The internal temperature should reach 195°F to ensure it’s tender and easy to shred.
What can I serve with Cuban inspired pulled pork?
Pair it with rice and beans or plantains for an authentic Cuban meal experience.
Cuban Inspired Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Cuban Inspired Instant Pot Pulled Pork is a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and warmth. Tender, juicy pork shoulder is cooked to perfection, infused with spices like cumin and garlic, and brightened by fresh citrus juices. This recipe not only creates a mouthwatering meal but also fosters memorable experiences at gatherings. Perfect for tacos or served over rice, this pulled pork will impress your family and friends while bringing a taste of Cuba to your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping the onion and garlic.
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft (3-5 minutes).
- Add the pork shoulder to the pot, season with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth.
- Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
- Release pressure carefully, shred the pork with two forks, and mix it back into the juices.
- Serve warm on tortillas or over rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork in citrus juice overnight. Searing the pork before cooking enhances its depth of flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days.
