The Puerto Rican roast pork or as it’s commonly known “lechón asado” is a staple in every menu across the island during the Christmas holiday. Served with arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), guineos en escabeche (pickled green bananas), pasteles (similar to tamales), and ensalada de coditos (cold pasta salad) it is an explosion of flavors and pure deliciousness!
Be warned! This menu is not for those on a diet!?
What is pernil, lechón asado or pig on a stick?
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The pig roast is slowly roasted on a stick for almost 8 hours and seasoned with herbs such as adobo, sazón, oregano, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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However, you don’t need to roast a pig on a stick, you can buy a pork shoulder (pernil) and roast it in the oven!
Now for the pernil recipe. There are many different recipes, and each family gives it their own special twist. I usually go with this one that I’m sharing from El Boricua Pernil al Horno with specific instructions and tips on roasting the pork shoulder.
When is Christmas celebrated in Puerto Rico?
Christmas is really big in Puerto Rico. The celebration really starts right after Thanksgiving when everyone puts up their Christmas decorations all the way through January 16th. Want to know more click below, and enjoy our traditions:
Who brings gifts?
On Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) gifts are exchanged among family members.
Santa on Christmas day and the Magi on Three Kings Day. Yes, children receive gifts on both days. You can read a fun story on how “The day that the Three Wise Men were met with Santa Claus Spanish Children’s Book“. You can also celebrate Three Kings Day here in the U.S.A, and if you visit Puerto Rico during Christmas these are 6 Ways to Celebrate Three Kings Day in Puerto Rico.
¡Feliz Navidad!
Puerto Rico is not the only country with fun traditions Kid World Citizen has an awesome post on Christmas around the world that you’ll love!
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| “Pernil al horno” Oven roasted pork roast. This tasty looking pernil was one that my Mom actually roasted. |
