If Cuban pork had a greatest hits album, masitas de puerco would be track one. These crispy, citrus-marinated pork chunks are everything you want in a bite: juicy on the inside, golden on the outside, with bold seasoning and a tangy finish that keeps you reaching for more.

Traditionally deep-fried until crisp, this version uses the air fryer to achieve that perfect golden crust with way less oil—and no sacrifice in flavor. Whether you serve them as the main dish or with toothpicks at a party, these pork bites always steal the show.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Masitas de puerco are a celebration of simplicity done right. The flavor comes from the marinade: garlic, sour orange or lime, oregano, and cumin. After a good soak, the pork is cooked until golden and crispy, then tossed with sautéed onions and maybe a splash of mojo for good measure.

1. Crispy – Air fryer gives a perfect golden crust with less oil
2. Juicy – Pork shoulder stays tender inside with crispy edges
3. Classic – A traditional Cuban dish made lighter and easier
4. Flexible – Serve as a main, an appetizer, or in bowls and sandwiches
5. Effortless – No need to deep fry or babysit a pot of oil

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

• Pork Shoulder – The cut of choice for masitas; it’s well-marbled, flavorful, and stays juicy inside while crisping up on the outside.
• Garlic – Used generously in the marinade; it’s what gives the pork that deep, savory Cuban flavor.
• Sour Orange (or Citrus Blend) – Traditionally made with naranja agria, but a mix of fresh lime and orange juice works beautifully for that tangy backbone.
• Cumin & Oregano – These two seasonings define Cuban pork; earthy, warm, and aromatic.
• Salt & Pepper – Simple but essential to wake up all the flavors.
• Olive Oil – Helps the marinade penetrate and supports browning in the air fryer.
• Onion – Lightly sautéed and served on top or mixed in at the end for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Mojo (Optional) – A garlicky citrus sauce you can drizzle on just before serving for even more depth.

How to make a Masitas de Puerco

1. Cut pork shoulder into 1.5–2 inch chunks and trim excess fat.
2. Marinate with garlic, sour orange (or lime + orange), cumin, oregano, salt, and olive oil.
3. Let marinate at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
5. Pat pork pieces dry and air fry in a single layer for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
6. Meanwhile, sauté sliced onions with a bit of the leftover marinade or mojo.
7. Toss crispy pork chunks with onions or drizzle mojo over top.
8. Serve hot with lime and your favorite sides.

If you liked this Cuban recipe, check out some other popular Cuban recipes on the blog!