20 Best Puerto Rican Pernil Recipe Try These Culinary Delights!
Published on: Mar 31, 2024
If you're looking for the perfect Puerto Rican pernil recipe, look no further. This traditional dish is a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine, and for good reason. The succulent, slow-roasted pork is infused with bold flavors and tenderized to perfection. In this article, we'll walk you through the best Puerto Rican pernil recipe step by step, so you can recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen. From the ingredients to the cooking process, we've got you covered.
A key component of this recipe is the cut of meat used. The pork shoulder, also known as pork butt, is the best choice for pernil. It has a higher fat content, which helps keep the meat moist during the long cooking process. Be sure to purchase a bone-in pork shoulder for maximum flavor.
2 tablespoons Adobo seasoning:
Adobo seasoning is a staple in Puerto Rican cooking and is essential for the authentic flavor of pernil. You can either purchase pre-made Adobo seasoning or make your own by combining salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and oregano.
1 tablespoon Sazon seasoning:
Another crucial seasoning in Puerto Rican cuisine is Sazon. It adds a vibrant color and unique flavor to the pernil. You can find pre-made Sazon seasoning packets at most grocery stores.
1/4 cup Olive oil:
Olive oil helps to keep the pork moist during the cooking process and also adds a rich flavor to the dish.
1/4 cup Orange juice:
The acidity in orange juice helps to tenderize the meat and adds a subtle citrus flavor to the pernil.
1/4 cup White vinegar:
White vinegar is another ingredient that helps to tenderize the meat and adds a tangy flavor to the dish.
3 cloves Garlic:
Garlic is a must-have in any Puerto Rican pernil recipe. It adds a pungent, savory flavor to the dish.
1 Onion:
The onion adds a subtle sweetness to the pernil and helps to infuse the meat with flavor.
2 Bay leaves:
Bay leaves are a classic seasoning in Puerto Rican cuisine and add a depth of flavor to the pernil.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the Adobo seasoning, Sazon seasoning, olive oil, orange juice, white vinegar, and minced garlic.
2. Prepare the pork:
Using a sharp knife, score the pork shoulder in a criss-cross pattern, about 1/2 inch deep. This will help the marinade penetrate the meat.
3. Marinate the pork:
Place the pork shoulder in a large zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it. Add the onion and bay leaves to the bag, then seal and place in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
4. Slow cook the pernil:
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Remove the pork from the marinade and place it in a roasting pan. Pour the marinade over the pork and cover the pan with foil. Slow cook the pernil for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F.
5. Crisp the skin:
Once the pork is fully cooked, remove the foil and turn the oven temperature up to 450°F. Let the pernil cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy.
6. Serve and enjoy:
Let the pernil rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving. Serve with your favorite Puerto Rican sides, such as arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas) or tostones (fried plantains).
Now that you have the best Puerto Rican pernil recipe at your fingertips, it's time to bring some Caribbean flavor into your kitchen. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a hearty family dinner. Give it a try and let the flavors transport you to the beautiful island of Puerto Rico.
