Name: Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: For Mojo Marinade:; 6 cloves garlic; 1 small white onion; 2 tsp dried oregano; 2 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp ground cumin; ¾ tsp black pepper; ½ cup grapefruit juice; ½ cup lime juice; ¼ cup orange juice; ½ cup olive oil; 3 tbsp white vinegar; For Pork Kebabs:; 2½ lbs pork neck meat; 3 bell peppers; 1 medium red onion; 20 cherry tomatoes; 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks; 2 jalapeño peppers

Are you ready to transport your taste buds to a Caribbean paradise? This succulent pork kebab recipe marinated in a zesty and spicy mojo sauce is just the ticket. The explosion of flavors from the garlic, spices, and citrus juices in the marinade, along with the smoky-charred taste from the grill, makes this dish a standout at any cookout.

Photos of Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs Recipe

The main ingredient of our recipe is pork neck meat, an underrated cut that is flavorful and tender when cooked properly. It might not be readily available in all supermarkets, but a visit to the butcher should solve that problem. The other key ingredient is the mojo marinade, the heart of this dish. While the individual components like oregano, cumin, and citrus juices are common, their combination creates a unique flavor profile that defines this dish.

Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebab Ingredients

Garlic: An essential ingredient in mojo marinade, it gives a strong, spicy, and pungent flavor.

White onion: Adds a mild flavor and aroma to the marinade.

Oregano: A staple herb in Latin cooking, it imparts an earthy, minty flavor.

Cumin: Gives the marinade a warm, nutty spice.

Citrus juices: The blend of grapefruit, lime, and orange juices gives the marinade its tangy, sweet, and sour notes.

Olive oil: Helps to emulsify the marinade and carry the flavors.

Pork neck meat: A flavourful and juicy cut, ideal for grilling.

Bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, pineapple chunks, and jalapeno peppers: Provides color, texture, and contrasting flavors to the pork.

One reader, Catlin Perales says:

The mojo marinated grilled pork kebabs recipe is a game-changer! The marinade infuses the pork with a burst of citrusy flavors, and grilling it to perfection creates a mouthwatering smoky taste. The combination of tender pork, juicy pineapple, and zesty marinade is a match made in heaven. A must-try for any BBQ enthusiast!

Catlin Perales

Techniques Required for Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs Recipe

How to prepare mojo marinade: Blend garlic, white onion, oregano, salt, cumin, and black pepper. Add grapefruit juice, lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, and white vinegar. Puree for 1 to 2 minutes until slightly thick but fluid. Reserve 1 cup of the marinade for later use.

How to marinate pork: Toss pork chunks in the mojo marinade, ensuring they are completely coated. Cover and refrigerate for 2 to 8 hours.

How to soak wooden skewers: Submerge wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before assembling the kebabs.

How to assemble kebabs: Skewer the ingredients in the following order: tomato, pork, pepper, onion, pork, pepper, pork, jalapeño or fruit, pork, pineapple, tomato or more veggies. Each skewer should have 4 pieces of pork.

How to grill kebabs: Cook the kebabs over direct heat for 3 minutes, then flip and baste with reserved mojo sauce. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, then flip, baste, and transfer to indirect heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

How to serve: Serve the kebabs over a bed of rice, either on or off the skewer.

How To Make Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs

Fire up your grill for these pork kebabs with a garlicky and citrusy marinade that also complements the tomatoes and pineapples beautifully.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Marinate Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Mojo Marinade:

6clovesgarlic,peeled and roughly chopped
1small white onion,roughly chopped
2tspdried oregano
2tspkosher salt
1tspground cumin
¾tspblack pepper
½cupgrapefruit juice,(from 1 medium grapefruit)
½cuplime juice,(4 large limes)
¼cuporange juice,(1 medium orange)
½cupolive oil
3tbspwhite vinegar

For Pork Kebabs:

2½lbspork neck meat,or tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1½-inch chunks
3bell peppers,(yellow, red or orange), seeded and cut into chunks
1medium red onion,cut into segments
20cherry tomatoes
2cupsfresh pineapple chunks
2jalapeno peppers,thickly sliced, optional

Instructions

Mojo Marinade:

Prepare the Mojo marinade: In a blender, add the garlic, white onion, oregano, salt, cumin, and black pepper. Add the grapefruit juice, lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, and white vinegar to the blender and puree the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes.
The marinade should be slightly thick, but fluid. Remove 1 cup of the marinade and reserve to brush onto the grilled kebabs later. Pour the rest of the marinade into a large non-reactive bowl or dish.
Add the chunks of pork to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the meat into the marinade a few times to coat it completely in the mixture. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pork in the marinade for 2 to 8 hours.
About 30 minutes before assembling the kebabs, soak the wooden skewers in water. Skip this step if using metal skewers.
Prior to assembling the kebabs, heat the charcoal, banking most of them on one side of the grill. This side will be used for direct cooking, the other side will be used to finish the kebabs. If using a gas grill, heat the grill to 400 degrees F. Once the grill is hot, clean the grate to ensure the kebabs don’t stick during cooking.

Assemble:

Strain the meat in a colander to remove the excess marinade. Discard the marinade. Set up an assembly line with the items in the following order: wooden (or metal) skewers, mojo pork, vegetables, and a clean sheet pan or tray.
Skewer a tomato, then a piece of meat, followed by a pepper slice and onion, another piece of meat, two more pepper slices, more meat, a jalapeno (or fruit), meat, pineapple chunk, a second tomato, or more veggies. Each skewer should have 4 pieces of pork.
By the time the kebabs have finished assembling, the grill should be ready to cook. Lay the kebabs over the direct heat side of the grill and cook for 3 minutes. Flip the kebabs and baste the grilled side with the reserved mojo sauce. Cook for an additional 3 minutes.
Flip the kebabs once more, basting the second side with mojo sauce. Transfer the kebabs to the indirect heat side of the grill and allow them to cook for 3 to 4 minutes and seal in the mojo marinade sauce.
Once the meat is finished and an internal thermometer reads 145 degrees F, remove the kebabs to a serving tray and tent them with aluminum foil. Allow the pork to rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.
Serve the kebabs over a bed of rice as is or off the skewer.

Nutrition

Calories: 599.70kcal
Fat: 33.19g
Saturated Fat: 7.58g
Trans Fat: 0.57g
Monounsaturated Fat: 21.56g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.16g
Carbohydrates: 26.83g
Fiber: 4.46g
Sugar: 16.60g
Protein: 51.81g
Cholesterol: 142.88mg
Sodium: 942.81mg
Calcium: 84.95mg
Potassium: 1403.64mg
Iron: 6.25mg
Vitamin A: 149.54µg
Vitamin C: 164.26mg

Technique Tip for Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs Recipe

When marinating the pork, ensure that all pieces are fully submerged in the mojo marinade. This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender kebab. If you find that the meat isn't fully covered, you can turn the pieces halfway through the marinating process to ensure even flavor distribution.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Grilled Pork Kebabs

Prepare the marinade: To save time, consider preparing the mojo marinade in advance and storing it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This way, when you're ready to make the kebabs, you can simply marinate the pork without having to go through the entire preparation process.

Pre-cut ingredients: Opt for pre-cut pork and pre-chopped vegetables from the grocery store. This can significantly reduce the prep time and make the kebab assembly much quicker and more convenient.

Grill in batches: If you're making a large quantity of kebabs, consider grilling them in batches. This will ensure that each kebab cooks evenly and allow you to manage the grilling process more efficiently.

Use metal skewers: Using metal skewers instead of wooden ones can save time on soaking and assembling, as they don't require pre-soaking and are reusable, making them a convenient option for quick kebab preparation.

Prep ahead: Prepare the kebab ingredients the night before and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, when it's time to grill, you can simply assemble the kebabs without the need for extensive prep work.

Invest in a grill basket: Consider using a grill basket for the vegetables and pineapple. This can streamline the grilling process and prevent smaller pieces from falling through the grates, ultimately saving time and effort.

Substitute Ingredients For Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs Recipe

garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor compared to garlic and can provide a similar aromatic quality to the marinade.
white onion - Substitute with red onion: Red onion can add a slightly sweeter and more vibrant flavor to the marinade.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can provide a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the marinade.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of salinity to the marinade.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can offer a similar warm and citrusy flavor to the marinade.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a milder and slightly different flavor profile to the marinade.
grapefruit juice - Substitute with orange juice: Orange juice can offer a slightly sweeter and less tangy citrus flavor to the marinade.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can provide a similar level of acidity and citrus flavor to the marinade.
orange juice - Substitute with pineapple juice: Pineapple juice can add a sweet and tangy flavor to the marinade.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can provide a similar richness and healthy fat content to the marinade.
white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can offer a slightly sweeter and fruitier acidity to the marinade.
pork neck meat - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder can provide a similar tender and flavorful cut for grilling.
bell peppers - Substitute with cubanelle peppers: Cubanelle peppers can offer a slightly sweeter and milder flavor to the kebabs.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onion can provide a similar pungent and slightly sweet flavor to the kebabs.
cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: Grape tomatoes can offer a similar size and sweet flavor to the kebabs.
fresh pineapple chunks - Substitute with mango chunks: Mango chunks can provide a similar sweet and tropical flavor to the kebabs.
jalapeño peppers - Substitute with serrano peppers: Serrano peppers can offer a similar level of heat and flavor to the kebabs.

Best Way to Present Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs

Elevate the kebabs on a platter: Arrange the grilled pork kebabs on a large platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro or parsley over the kebabs to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Incorporate vibrant side dishes: Serve the kebabs alongside vibrant side dishes such as a citrus-infused quinoa salad or a colorful slaw to enhance the overall presentation.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the kebabs on sleek, modern serving ware to elevate the visual appeal and create a sophisticated dining experience.
Add a drizzle of mojo sauce: Lightly drizzle the reserved mojo sauce over the kebabs just before serving to add a glossy finish and a burst of flavor.
Incorporate grilled fruit: Integrate grilled pineapple slices or wedges as a decorative element on the platter to add a touch of sweetness and visual interest.
Create a visually appealing arrangement: Arrange the kebabs in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that the colors and textures are balanced and inviting.
Use edible flowers as a garnish: Adorn the platter with edible flowers, such as nasturtium or pansies, to add a delicate and elegant touch to the presentation.
Serve on individual plates: For a refined presentation, serve each kebab on individual plates, ensuring that the components are artfully arranged and visually enticing.
Incorporate decorative skewers: Use decorative skewers or picks to add a touch of flair to the presentation, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Grilled Pork Kebabs

Blender: A blender is used to puree the ingredients for the mojo marinade, creating a smooth and well-combined mixture.
Wooden skewers: Wooden skewers are soaked in water before assembling the kebabs to prevent them from burning during grilling.
Colander: A colander is used to strain the excess marinade from the marinated pork before assembling the kebabs.
Grill: A grill, whether charcoal or gas, is essential for cooking the pork kebabs. It provides the direct heat needed to grill the kebabs to perfection.

How To Store and Freeze Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs

Allow the pork kebabs to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Refrigerate the leftover kebabs for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the pork kebabs, place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Freeze the kebabs for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality and flavor.
When ready to reheat, thaw the frozen kebabs in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed kebabs in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
Note: The vegetables and fruits on the kebabs may soften and lose some of their texture after freezing and reheating, but the pork will still be flavorful and safe to consume.

How To Reheat Leftover Pork Kebabs

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pork kebabs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Brush the kebabs with a little bit of reserved mojo marinade or olive oil to prevent them from drying out. Cover the baking sheet with foil and reheat the kebabs in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use a microwave. Place the pork kebabs on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the meat moist during reheating. Microwave the kebabs on high for 1-2 minutes, or until they are heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the meat to become tough and rubbery.
If you have a grill or grill pan, you can reheat the pork kebabs quickly and easily. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the kebabs with a little bit of reserved mojo marinade or olive oil, and place them on the grill. Cook the kebabs for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and have nice grill marks.
For a stovetop reheating option, place the pork kebabs in a skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of reserved mojo marinade, chicken broth, or water to the pan to prevent the meat from drying out. Cover the pan with a lid and let the kebabs simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through. Flip the kebabs occasionally to ensure even heating.
If you want to enjoy the pork kebabs cold, simply remove them from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This will help take the chill off the meat and allow the flavors to develop. Cold pork kebabs can be sliced and served over a salad or used as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Random Fact about Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs

The mojo marinade used in this recipe is a traditional Cuban sauce that combines citrus juices, garlic, and spices. It is a popular marinade for various meats and adds a zesty and flavorful kick to the grilled pork kebabs. The combination of citrus juices not only adds a tangy taste but also helps tenderize the meat, making it juicy and flavorful. This marinade has been used for generations in Cuban cuisine and is a perfect way to infuse the pork with a burst of delicious flavors.

Is Making Grilled Pork Kebabs at Home Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this mojo marinated grilled pork kebabs recipe is quite high. The use of affordable ingredients like pork, bell peppers, onions, and pineapple makes it a budget-friendly option for a household. The marinade utilizes simple and economical components like garlic, citrus juices, and spices. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30, making it a reasonable choice for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Grilled Pork Kebab Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The mojo marinated grilled pork kebabs recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a balance of lean protein, fruits, and vegetables. The marinade is packed with flavorful ingredients like garlic, onion, and citrus juices, which add taste without relying heavily on unhealthy fats or excessive salt. The use of pork neck meat provides a good source of protein, while the inclusion of bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and pineapple contributes to the overall nutritional value of the dish.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of olive oil in the marinade to lower the overall fat content
Use a leaner cut of pork, such as tenderloin or loin chops, to further decrease the fat content
Include a greater variety of vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Opt for fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley in the marinade to add flavor and antioxidants
Serve the kebabs with a side of whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, to provide a more balanced meal

By incorporating these suggestions, you can elevate the nutritional profile of the dish while still maintaining its delicious flavor profile. The combination of lean protein, colorful vegetables, and zesty marinade makes for a satisfying and healthy meal that can be enjoyed as part of a well-rounded diet.

Editor's Thoughts on This Mojo Marinated Pork Kebab Recipe

The mojo marinated grilled pork kebabs recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The marinade's blend of citrus juices, garlic, and spices infuses the pork with a zesty and aromatic profile, while the grilling process adds a smoky char and caramelization. The combination of tender pork, vibrant vegetables, and sweet pineapple creates a harmonious balance of savory and sweet notes. The jalapeño peppers provide a subtle heat, enhancing the overall complexity of the dish. This recipe offers a tantalizing experience for the palate, making it a perfect choice for a vibrant and flavorful meal.

Enhance Your Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Create a zesty lime and chili butter to slather on the corn for a burst of flavor that complements the mojo marinated pork kebabs perfectly.

Mango Salsa: Whip up a refreshing mango salsa with red onion, cilantro, and lime juice to add a tropical twist to your meal.

Coconut Rice: Infuse your rice with coconut milk and a hint of ginger for a creamy and aromatic side dish that pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of the pork kebabs.

Grilled Pineapple: Throw some pineapple slices on the grill alongside the kebabs for a caramelized and juicy treat that adds a touch of sweetness to your meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: These skewers are packed with a variety of colorful vegetables and grilled to perfection, making for a delicious and healthy side dish or main course.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Tender, fall-off-the-bone beef short ribs cooked in a rich and flavorful sauce, perfect for a comforting and hearty meal.

Mango Coconut Panna Cotta: A creamy and tropical dessert featuring the flavors of mango and coconut, topped with fresh fruit for a refreshing and indulgent treat.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Mojo Marinated Pork Kebabs

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. These stuffed mushrooms are sure to impress your guests with their rich and satisfying taste.

Caprese Skewers: For a light and refreshing appetizer, assemble skewers of fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of sweet and tangy flavor. These caprese skewers are a perfect bite-sized option for any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Berry Parfait: Layer vibrant and juicy mixed berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and wholesome berry parfait that is perfect for a light and satisfying sweet treat.

Why trust this Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs Recipe:

This recipe for mojo marinated grilled pork kebabs is a trusted favorite among pork lovers. The flavorful mojo marinade infuses the meat with a zesty blend of garlic, citrus juices, and aromatic spices, creating a mouthwatering experience. The use of high-quality ingredients such as fresh pineapple and bell peppers ensures a vibrant and colorful presentation. With a carefully crafted cooking method, these kebabs are guaranteed to deliver tender, juicy, and succulent pork with a perfect balance of flavors. Trust in this recipe to elevate your grilling game and impress your guests with a delightful culinary creation.

Share your thoughts on the Mojo Marinated Grilled Pork Kebabs recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried and how they turned out!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the pork for?

I recommend marinating the pork for at least 2 hours, but it's even better if you can marinate it for up to 8 hours. This allows the flavors of the mojo marinade to fully infuse the pork.

Can I use a gas grill instead of a charcoal grill?

Yes, you can absolutely use a gas grill instead of a charcoal grill. Just preheat the grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and follow the grilling instructions as usual.

Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?

Yes, you can use metal skewers instead of wooden ones. If you're using metal skewers, there's no need to soak them in water beforehand.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the marinade?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder marinade, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño peppers or omit them altogether. On the other hand, if you love heat, you can add more jalapeños to amp up the spiciness.

What can I serve the pork kebabs with?

These pork kebabs pair wonderfully with a side of rice or grilled vegetables. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or some warm tortillas for a delicious meal.