Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering culinary journey with these irresistible Cuban Sliders that pack a flavor punch like no other! Imagine tender, juicy mojo-marinated pork nestled between golden, crispy slider buns, topped with a creamy cilantro mayo that will make your taste buds dance. These sliders aren't just a meal; they're a mini vacation to the vibrant streets of Cuba, right in your own kitchen. Whether you're hosting a game day party or craving something extraordinary, these sliders are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 12 sliders
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 12 slider buns
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade for the pork shoulder.
- Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker and pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring it's completely covered. Use a brush or hands to coat the pork evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook the pork for approximately 4 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and transfer to a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with freshly chopped cilantro to create the cilantro mayo. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Lightly toast the slider buns in a skillet or under the broiler until they are golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the sliders by spreading a generous amount of cilantro mayo on each bun, then adding a hearty portion of the shredded mojo pork.
- Serve immediately while the pork is warm and the buns are crisp. Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice.
Tips
- Choose a well-marbled pork shoulder for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Don't rush the slow cooking process - low and slow is the key to melt-in-your-mouth pork.
- For extra flavor, reserve some of the cooking liquid to drizzle over the shredded pork.
- Toast the buns just before serving to maintain that perfect crispy texture.
- Make the cilantro mayo ahead of time to let the flavors meld together.
- If you don't have a slow cooker, you can use a Dutch oven in the oven at 325°F for similar results.
- For a zesty twist, add a quick pickle or some thinly sliced red onions to your sliders.
- Leftover pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and makes great tacos or nachos!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg
