Lechón Asado Estilo Puertorriqueño
A whole roasted suckling pig, marinated in a flavorful adobo and slow-cooked until the skin is incredibly crispy and the meat is tender and juicy. This is a celebratory dish, often prepared for holidays and special gatherings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 approx. 20-30 lbs Whole suckling pig(cleaned and butterflied by butcher)
- 20 cloves Ajo (Garlic)(minced)
- 3 tbsp Orégano seco (Dried Oregano)
- 2 tbsp Comino molido (Ground Cumin)
- 0.25 cup Sal (Salt)
- 2 tbsp Pimienta negra (Black Pepper)
- 0.5 cup Aceite de oliva (Olive Oil)
- 0.25 cup Vinagre blanco (White Vinegar)
- 5 dried Hojas de laurel (Bay Leaves)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the adobo marinade: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, dried oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and white vinegar. Mix well.
💡 Tip: Ensure garlic is finely minced for best flavor distribution. - 2
Generously rub the adobo marinade all over the inside and outside of the butterflied suckling pig. Stuff the cavity with bay leaves.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 3
Let the pig marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for maximum flavor penetration.
⏱️ 4-12 hours - 4
Preheat your oven or outdoor roaster to 300°F (150°C). If using an outdoor roaster, prepare it according to manufacturer instructions.
💡 Tip: An outdoor roaster is ideal for achieving the best crispy skin. - 5
Place the pig, skin-side up, in the roasting pan or on the rotisserie. If using an oven, you may need to tent the thinner parts with foil to prevent overcooking.
⏱️ 6-8 hours - 6
Roast for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat, and the skin is deeply golden brown and crackling. Baste occasionally with pan juices.
💡 Tip: Increase temperature to 400-450°F (200-230°C) for the last 30-60 minutes to crisp up the skin, if needed. - 7
Let the lechón rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. Serve hot.
⏱️ 30 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The quality of the pig is crucial; seek out a reputable butcher.
- ✓Patience is key for slow roasting to ensure tender meat.
- ✓Don't skip the resting period; it allows the juices to redistribute.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a splash of sour orange juice to the adobo for an extra citrusy note.
- Stuff the cavity with sofrito for added aromatic depth.