Fried Pork Chunks (Masitas De Puerco Fritas)

1. 1

   Sprinkle the meat liberally with salt and pepper. I.

2. 2

   In a mortar, crush the garlic into a paste and rub the pork with the garlic paste.

3. 3

   Place the pork in a nonreactive bowl and pour over the orange juice.

4. 4

   Cover and refrigerate 2 to 3 hours.

5. 5

   Drain the pork cubes.

6. 6

   In a large saucepan, over medium heat, heat 2 inches of oil until very hot but not smoking, then add the pork cubes, without crowding them, raise the heat to high, and brown the cubes, turning with a slotted spoon. (The pork will release some moisture, lowering the oil temperature considerably.)

7. 7

   When oil temperature rises again, lower the heat a little and cook the cubes, turning frequently, until they are a rich, golden brown, another 10 minutes.

8. 8

   Occasionally turn up the heat when necessary to crisp the cubes.

9. 9

   As the cubes are finished, transfer them to a paper-towel-lined platter to drain; keep warm in a 200u00b0F oven until all the cubes are fried. (Placing the chunks in oven will make them nice and crispy).

10. 10

    Serve immediately, with Moros y Cristianos (Black Beans and Rice) and Mojo Criollo (Creole Garlic Sauce).

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.