Pernil
Pernil is a beloved Puerto Rican roast pork dish, typically made from a pork shoulder slow-roasted until the meat is incredibly tender and the skin becomes a crispy, golden "cuerito." It is generously seasoned with a classic adobo marinade of garlic, oregano, cumin, and vinegar, and is a centerpiece of holiday meals and celebrations across the island.
🍳 View the full Pernil recipe →
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in protein and fat, with the fat content being a key source of its rich flavor and moisture. A typical serving provides a good amount of B vitamins and minerals like zinc and iron, with a calorie range that can vary widely depending on the cut and portion of skin and fat included.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 0 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
| Zinc | 4.5 mg |
| Selenium | 40 mcg |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) | 0.6 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.3 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 8.0 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.8 mcg |
Per 1 serving (113 g, about 4 oz) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the act of preparing a pernil is a cherished family ritual, often involving multiple generations in the marinating and roasting process. The prized crispy skin, or "cuerito," is a textural highlight that distinguishes it from other roast pork preparations.
🍽️ Related dishes
AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms