Cuban chef in Spain reveals the secret to his best-selling roasted pork shoulder

The Cuban chef behind Locco Pizza in Madrid shares his most popular recipe: Cuban-style roasted pork shoulder, crispy, juicy, and with a technique that has captivated the people of Madrid.


A Cuban entrepreneur, originally from the province of Granma, is winning over the palates of Madrid with a recipe that evokes the most authentic flavors of Creole cuisine: the Cuban-style roasted pork shoulder.

From his restaurant Locco Pizza, located at 104 Oporto Avenue, in the Carabanchel neighborhood (Madrid), this chef has managed to establish himself as a key figure in Cuban cuisine in the Spanish capital.

This is Cuban-style roasted pork; the edge always has to turn out like this, he explains in a video that has gone viral, while showcasing the crispy final result of patient and skillful cooking.

The secret, he says, lies in respecting the times and temperatures. The meat he uses is fresh, and before going into the oven, it should rest for at least four hours. Then, the shoulder is cooked skin side down for four and a half hours at 200 degrees Celsius.

You can never change the temperature; it always has to be 200 degrees. If it weighs seven and a half kilos as it is, it needs to be in the oven for four and a half hours, then turned over and cooked for an additional 40 minutes,” he details.

The process begins with a splash of pork lard in the tray to prevent the skin from burning. “With the same lard that the pig releases, we cover the entire shoulder,” he adds, as he carefully spreads the fat over the meat.

The finishing touch is provided by a homemade dressing. “It’s a Cuban dressing that we add after baking. It can be used beforehand, but the skin doesn't turn out the same,” she warns, emphasizing the importance of each step in the final result.

Thanks to the authenticity and dedication in their cooking, the business has experienced a surge of new customers following the sharing of their story on platforms like CiberCuba, thereby solidifying its success as one of the tastiest spots for Cuban food in Madrid.

Locco Pizza has become famous for its roasted pork bites and its pizza topped with pork. One of the most valued aspects by customers is the artisanal Cuban bread they use, made right in the establishment.

Do you want to see the complete step-by-step? Don't miss the video and discover all the secrets behind this irresistible Cuban-style roasted pork shoulder recipe.

Frequently asked questions about the success of Locco Pizza and its Cuban-style roasted pork palette

What is the secret behind Locco Pizza's roasted pork platter?

The secret lies in respecting the cooking times and temperatures. The meat is allowed to rest for at least four hours before going into the oven and is cooked at 200 degrees Celsius, first with the skin side down for four and a half hours, and then it is flipped for another 40 minutes. Additionally, a homemade Cuban seasoning is used after baking to add the finishing touch.

Why has Locco Pizza gained so much popularity in Madrid?

Locco Pizza has gained popularity thanks to its authentic Cuban cuisine and its specialty in roasted pork shoulder with crispy skin and juicy meat. Its culinary offering includes appetizers and roasted pork pizzas, which have attracted the attention of a loyal clientele, despite the long waiting lines due to high demand.

Where is the Locco Pizza restaurant located in Madrid?

Locco Pizza is located at Avenida Oporto #104 in the Carabanchel neighborhood of Madrid. This establishment has become a landmark of Cuban cuisine in the Spanish capital, attracting both the Cuban community and lovers of Caribbean food.

What impact has Locco Pizza had on the Cuban community in Madrid?

Locco Pizza has had a significant impact on the Cuban community in Madrid by offering an authentic taste of the island and becoming a meeting point for Cubans and lovers of Cuban food. Its success has been amplified by interest on digital platforms and specialized media, establishing itself as a gastronomic benchmark.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.