Traditional Puerto Rican Pernil: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

1 bone-in pork shoulder (about 8-10 pounds)
8 cloves of garlic
1 tablespoon of black peppercorns
1 tablespoon of oregano
1 tablespoon of ground cumin
1 tablespoon of salt
1/4 cup of olive oil
1/4 cup of white vinegar
1 cup of orange juice
1 cup of lime juice
4 sprigs of fresh thyme
4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
1 large onion, sliced

Steps and instructions

Prepare the marinade by combining the garlic, black peppercorns, oregano, cumin, salt, olive oil, vinegar, orange juice, and lime juice in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
Place the pork shoulder in a large dish or roasting pan. Score the skin of the pork with a sharp knife to allow the marinade to penetrate deeper.
Pour the marinade over the pork, making sure to get it into the scores and all over the meat. Add the thyme, rosemary, and sliced onion to the pan.
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight. This allows the pork to absorb the flavors of the marinade.
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
Remove the pork from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Place the pork in the oven and roast for about 4-5 hours, or until the meat is tender and can be easily pulled apart with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the pernil from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.

Tools for making

Blender or Food Processor - For blending the marinade ingredients into a smooth consistency.
Sharp Knife - To score the skin of the pork shoulder, allowing the marinade to penetrate.
Large Dish or Roasting Pan - To hold and marinate the pork shoulder.
Plastic Wrap - To cover the dish and seal in the flavors while marinating in the refrigerator.
Oven - To roast the pernil at a low temperature for several hours until tender.
Fork - To check if the meat is tender and easily pulled apart.
Carving Knife - To carve and slice the pernil before serving.

Recipe variations

For a crispier crust, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Experiment with different spices in the marinade, such as smoked paprika, chili powder, or a touch of cinnamon.
Add a splash of rum or achiote paste to the marinade for extra flavor.
Try marinating the pork shoulder in a citrus-based mojo sauce instead of the traditional marinade.
For a meat-free option, substitute the pork shoulder with a large jackfruit, prepared in the same marinade and cooking method.
Create a spicy version by adding diced jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
For a tangy twist, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the marinade.
Instead of roasting in the oven, cook the pernil on a grill or smoker for a smoky flavor.

Recipe overview

Pernil is a slow-roasted pork dish that hails from Puerto Rico, widely beloved for its incredibly tender meat and crisp, crackling skin. It's a centerpiece dish often served during holidays and special occasions. This recipe will guide you through the process of marinating the pork shoulder in a flavorful mixture of spices, garlic, and citrus juices, then slow-roasting it to perfection in the oven. Expect an irresistibly savory and citrusy main course that melts in your mouth. Although it requires some patience and lots of slow-cooking time, the result is truly worth it and is sure to impress your guests.

Common questions

How long should I marinate the pork shoulder? - Marinate the pork shoulder for at least 8 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to develop and penetrate the meat.
Can I use a boneless pork shoulder? - Yes, you can use a boneless pork shoulder for this recipe. However, keep in mind that bone-in pork shoulder tends to have more flavor and juiciness.
What can I serve with pernil? - Pernil is often served with traditional Puerto Rican sides such as rice and beans, tostones (fried plantains), or with a side of salad or roasted vegetables.
Can I substitute the fresh herbs with dried herbs? - While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can substitute them with dried herbs if needed. Use about 1/3 of the amount specified for the fresh herbs.
Can I cook pernil in a slow cooker? - Yes, you can cook pernil in a slow cooker. Follow the same steps for marinating the pork, then place it in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until tender.

Serving dishes and utensils

Roasting Pan - A large, sturdy pan used for roasting the pork shoulder in the oven.
Blender or Food Processor - To blend the marinade ingredients into a smooth consistency.
Plastic Wrap - To cover the roasting pan and marinate the pork overnight in the refrigerator.
Sharp Knife - For scoring the skin of the pork shoulder to allow the marinade to penetrate.
Fork - To test the tenderness of the cooked pork by pulling it apart.

Origin stories

Pernil, a mouthwatering roast pork dish, is deeply entrenched in Puerto Rican culture. It is the centerpiece of many grand feasts and celebrations, especially during Christmas. The tradition of roasting a whole pig started with the indigenous Taíno people who inhabited the island before Spanish colonization. Over time, the process was adapted to use a pork shoulder, which is what we see today. The long marinating process and slow roasting is a testament to the island's love for communal gatherings and shared meals. The dish is often enjoyed with arroz con gandules, a rice and pigeon peas dish, completing the iconic Puerto Rican festive meal.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.