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Cochinita Pibil - Authentic Mexican Yucatecan Slow-Roasted Pork

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    ChefPandas
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🌮 About This Dish

Cochinita Pibil is a traditional Mexican dish originating from the Yucatán Peninsula. This iconic dish has deep roots in Mayan culinary traditions and is a staple in Yucatecan cuisine. The name "Cochinita" means young pig, while "Pibil" refers to the cooking method involving marinating and slow-roasting in a pit oven.

🌶️ Ingredients Overview

  • 2 lbs (1 kg) pork shoulder, cut into chunks
  • Achiote paste (annatto paste)
  • Seville orange juice (or a mix of orange and lime juice)
  • Red onion, sliced
  • Garlic, minced
  • Mexican oregano
  • Allspice
  • Bay leaves
  • Salt
  • Banana leaves (for wrapping)
  • Tortillas, pickled red onions, habanero salsa (for serving)

✨ What Makes It Special

Cochinita Pibil is known for its vibrant color, bold flavors, and tender, juicy meat. The use of achiote paste gives the dish its characteristic red hue and earthy flavor. Traditionally cooked underground in banana leaves, this method imparts a smoky essence to the dish.

📝 Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (1 kg) pork shoulder, cut into chunks
  • 3-4 tbsp achiote paste
  • 1 cup Seville orange juice
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Mexican oregano
  • 1/2 tsp allspice
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt to taste
  • Banana leaves, as needed

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. In a bowl, mix achiote paste, Seville orange juice, minced garlic, Mexican oregano, allspice, bay leaves, and salt.
  2. Marinate the pork in this mixture for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
  3. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  4. Line a baking dish with banana leaves and place the marinated pork on top.
  5. Cover the pork with more banana leaves and then seal the dish with foil.
  6. Bake for about 3-4 hours until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
  7. Serve the Cochinita Pibil with tortillas, pickled red onions, and habanero salsa.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation: 20 minutes
  • Marination: 4 hours to overnight
  • Cooking: 3-4 hours

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Cochinita Pibil is traditionally served on tortillas with pickled red onions and fiery habanero salsa. You can also serve it with refried beans, avocado, and fresh cilantro for a complete Yucatecan experience.

💭 Chef's Notes

For an authentic touch, consider cooking the Cochinita Pibil in banana leaves or aluminum foil to replicate the traditional underground pit oven method. Adjust the level of achiote paste and citrus juices according to your taste preferences.

📦 Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve the flavors.

Enjoy the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Cochinita Pibil, a dish that truly embodies the essence of Yucatecan cuisine.