Kuban Crunch

Introduction

The Kuban Crunch is a delightful fusion of flavors originating from the vibrant culinary traditions of Cuba. The dish combines the freshness of citrus and herbs with the savory appeal of slow-cooked meats. It is reminiscent of the cultural melting pot that is Cuban cuisine, with influences from Spanish, African, and Caribbean culinary practices. Traditionally, the Kuban Crunch was enjoyed during festive occasions, bringing people together to savor both the food and the rich cultural tapestry it represents.

Ingredients

• Pork Shoulder - 2 pounds, cut into chunks
• Lime - 2, juiced
• Orange - 1, juiced
• Garlic - 6 cloves, minced
• Cumin Powder - 1 tablespoon
• Oregano - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 2 teaspoons
• Pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1, finely chopped
• Red Bell Pepper - 1, sliced
• Cilantro - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Tortillas - 8, warmed

Preparation

Start by preparing the Pork Shoulder. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Lime and Orange juice, Garlic, Cumin Powder, Oregano, Salt, and Pepper. Mix well to form a marinade. Add the Pork Shoulder chunks, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven, heat the Olive Oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated Pork Shoulder chunks in batches, searing until browned on all sides. Remove the pork and set aside.
3. Add the Onion and Red Bell Pepper to the pot, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Return the Pork Shoulder to the pot. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Cook the pork for approximately 3 hours, or until tender and easily shredded. For timing assistance, use a cooking timer.

Assembling the Kuban Crunch

Remove the tender pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Reserve the cooking juices.

1. Serve the shredded pork on Tortillas, drizzling a bit of the reserved juices over the top for added flavor.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped Cilantro.
3. Optionally, add slices of Lime and Red Bell Pepper for extra zest and crunch.

Enjoying the Meal

The real joy of Kuban Crunch comes from its versatility. Enjoy it fresh from the oven, letting the savory aroma fill your senses. Pair it with a crisp salad or rice for a complete meal. It is also perfect for gatherings, as each guest can customize their own tortillas with additional toppings like cheese or Orange slices for a sweet balance.

As you savor every bite, you'll be reminded of the vibrant culture and the rich flavors that are signature to the Cuban cuisine experience.