How to Cook Pernil in the Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide
Pernil, also known as roasted pork shoulder, is a popular dish in Latin American cuisine, particularly in Puerto Rico and Cuba. Cooking pernil in the oven is a relatively easy and delicious way to prepare this mouth-watering dish. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook pernil in the oven, including important tips and techniques to achieve a tender and flavorful pork shoulder.
What is Pernil?
Pernil is a traditional Latin American dish that originated in Puerto Rico. It is a slow-roasted pork shoulder that is marinated in a mixture of garlic, sour orange juice, and spices, which gives it a distinct flavor and aroma. The pork shoulder is typically covered with a layer of crispy skin, known as pelado, which adds texture and flavor to the dish.
Ingredients Needed
To cook pernil in the oven, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
- 1/4 cup garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sour orange juice (or substitute with a mixture of lime and orange juice)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). - Prepare the Marinade
In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, sour orange juice, olive oil, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth to create the marinade. - Marinate the Pork Shoulder
Place the pork shoulder in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork shoulder, making sure that it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. - Remove from Marinade and Pat Dry
Remove the pork shoulder from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels to prevent excessive moisture from accumulating during roasting. - Season with Salt and Pepper
Sprinkle the pork shoulder with salt and pepper to taste. - Roast in the Oven
Place the pork shoulder in a roasting pan and put it in the preheated oven. Roast the pork shoulder for 30 minutes, then reduce the heat to 300°F (150°C) and continue roasting for another 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily. - Let it Rest
Once the pork shoulder is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips and Techniques
- Pelado: To achieve the characteristic crispy skin, rub the pork shoulder with a little bit of oil and salt before roasting.
- Baste with Liquid: Every 30 minutes, baste the pork shoulder with the pan juices to keep it moist and add flavor.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork shoulder. It should reach an internal temperature of at least 190°F (88°C) for optimal doneness.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the pork shoulder against the grain and serve with a side of rice, beans, and vegetables.
Timeline
Here is a sample timeline for cooking pernil in the oven:
| Time | Step | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 hours | Marinade | Refrigerate pork shoulder for at least 2 hours or overnight. |
| 30 minutes | Roast | Reduce heat to 300°F (150°C) after initial 30-minute roast. |
| 2-3 hours | Roast | Continue roasting until pork shoulder is tender and falls apart easily. |
| 15-20 minutes | Rest | Let pork shoulder rest before slicing and serving. |
Conclusion
Cooking pernil in the oven is a relatively easy and delicious way to prepare this popular Latin American dish. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve a tender and flavorful pork shoulder with a crispy skin. Remember to marinate the pork shoulder for at least 2 hours, roast it slowly in the oven, and let it rest before slicing and serving. With these tips and techniques, you will be well on your way to creating a delicious pernil that will impress your family and friends.