Instant Pot Dominican Pernil (Pulled Pork)

sour orange juice

💰Cheaper: orange juice + lime juice

Combining orange and lime juice mimics the tangy flavor of sour orange.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Vegetable oil is a cost-effective alternative for roasting.

adobo seasoning

💰Cheaper: garlic powder + onion powder + paprika

Homemade mix can replicate adobo flavor at a lower cost.

bay leaves

💰Cheaper: dried thyme

Thyme can provide a similar aromatic quality.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Pat the pork leg dry with paper towels.

Make deep incisions in the pork skin and meat to allow for marinating.

In a blender, combine garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, olive oil, lime juice, vinegar, and sour orange juice to create a marinade.

Rub the marinade all over the pork, ensuring it gets into the incisions.

Cover the pork and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Place the marinated pork in a roasting pan, skin side up.

Add bay leaves and onion around the pork in the pan.

Pour water into the pan to keep the meat moist during cooking.

Cover the pan with foil and roast for 3-4 hours, until the meat is tender.

Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).

Roast for an additional 30-45 minutes, until the skin is crispy and golden brown.

Let the pork rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Serve with rice, beans, and salad.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: