This Cuban Mojo Marinade Recipe is fresh out of Abuela’s kitchen. It is the heart of Cuban flavor. This mojo marinade recipe is going to change the way you mojo going forward.
Abuela’s Cuban Mojo Marinade Recipe is a total flavor punch into any recipe. There is nothing like fresh mojo. Don’t get us wrong. There are many days were store bought mojo will save the day. Absolutely. We are in no way insisting that you make fresh mojo all the time, or even most of the time. What we are saying, is that fresh mojo is definitely worth it some of the time.
Watch us walk you through step by step on how to make this delicious flavorful marinade right at home! This video will make you a Mojo Pro in no time!
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What is Cuban Mojo Marinade
Traditionally, mojo is a flavorful Cuban marinade that is made with garlic, herbs and typically sour orange and other citrus fruits. Mojo is used throughout Cuban cuisine, to tenderize and infuse meats like pork, chicken, and beef with a tangy, savory taste. The marinade is versatile and can be used for grilling, roasting, or pan-frying.
This recipe is not to be confused with Mojo Criollo (which we also have an amazing recipe for FIND IT HERE). We break down all the differences HERE. Essentially, mojo marinade is something you use while cooking, and mojo criollo is something you use to dress or dip.
We want you to think of Abuela’s Mojo Marinade as a great little secret Ace up your sleeve. When you take the time to blend these simple ingredients, you can quickly elevate a basic chicken, or pork recipe. On the average every day, may seem like unnecessary extra step. We hear you, but keep it in mind next time you are up for making a fun Sunday Family Dinner or for getting your turkey ready for roasting or the big heavy hitter for any Cuban cook, Noche Buena.
If you’re looking for a good Mojo Turkey Recipe, check ours out HERE – perfect for Thanksgiving!

What Else Can you do with Cuban Mojo Marinade Recipe
The mojo marinade is perfect for the Mojo Turkey Recipe and obviously was made for things like our Slow Roasted Pernil Recipe or a full Lechon Asado on Noche Buena. However we think it can also work for a variety of different recipes that you can make at home.
Instant Pot Shredded Chicken: Just add the marinade to coat the chicken before you turn it on, and it’s such a good twist.
Alita’s Roast Chicken: just throw it on top of the chicken before throwing it in the oven
Marinating chicken for Arroz Con Pollo or Fricase de Pollo
We feel like we have made our point. It’s a pretty versatile marinade to have up your sleeve.
Let’s Cook!
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Cuban Mojo Marinade Recipe
Course: MarinadeCuisine: CubanDifficulty: Easy8
servings5
minutesIngredients
2 heads of garlic, separated and peeled
Juice of 8 limes
Juice and zest of 4 -5 oranges
½ cup of olive oil
1 tablespoon of dried oregano
1 teaspoon of dried ground cumin
1 tablespoon of salt
Directions
- Add everything in a blender or food processor and blend up until the garlic is very finely minced. It’s that easy!