Pernil (Boston Butt Roast)
Juicy, flavorful Puerto Rican-style roasted pork seasoned with garlic, Sazon, and Mojo, perfect for festive gatherings and family dinners with rice and gravy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix crushed garlic, salt, Mojo Criollo, and Sazon together to make the marinade mixture.
- Make 1/2-inch holes into the pernil (pork shoulder).
- Fill the holes with the marinade mixture.
- Place the marinated pernil in a pan and cover with aluminum foil.
- Cook at 325°F for 45 minutes.
- Turn over the meat, raise the oven temperature to 350°F, and cook for an additional 1 1/2 hours.
- Check if the meat is done when the juices run clear from the meat.
- After turning the meat, spoon the juices over it during cooking.
- Serve with white rice and gravy made from the meat juices.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, let the pernil marinate overnight in the refrigerator. If you don’t have Mojo Criollo, you can substitute with a mix of orange juice, lime juice, and garlic. Keep an eye on the cooking time as larger cuts might need more time to ensure tenderness. For added moisture, consider adding a splash of broth to the pan during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pernil sliced alongside fluffy white rice and a drizzle of the rich gravy made from the meat juices. It pairs beautifully with Red Or Green Cucumber Sticks for a fresh crunch. For a complete meal, add a side of black beans or a simple salad to balance the flavors. Enjoy with friends and family for a festive occasion.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the pernil cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or placing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the pernil in a covered dish in a preheated oven at 325°F until warmed through, adding a bit of broth to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pernil (Boston Butt Roast) contains roughly 105 calories, with 3g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 630mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, while pernil traditionally uses pork shoulder, you can use other cuts like pork loin or leg. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as these cuts may cook faster. Ensure they are well marinated to retain moisture.
What should I serve with pernil?
Pernil is traditionally served with white rice and black beans. You can also add fried plantains or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors. For something different, consider pairing it with Louisiana Alligator Sauce for a spicy kick.
How do I know when the pernil is fully cooked?
The pernil is done when the internal temperature reaches 190°F, ensuring it's tender and juicy. You can also check that the juices run clear when pierced. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).