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Pollo Pibil - Authentic Mexican Yucatán Dish with Achiote-Marinated Chicken

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    ChefPandas
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🌮 About This Dish

Pollo Pibil, a beloved dish from the Yucatán region of Mexico, holds a rich cultural history dating back to ancient Mayan traditions. This flavorful dish combines indigenous cooking techniques with Spanish influences, resulting in a harmonious blend of aromatic spices and tender meat.

🌶️ Ingredients Overview

  • 2 lbs (about 1 kg) chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on (muslos de pollo)
  • 3.5 oz (100 g) achiote paste (pasta de achiote)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (ajo)
  • 1/2 cup orange juice (jugo de naranja)
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar (vinagre blanco)
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (jugo de limón)
  • 1 tsp cumin (comino)
  • 1 tsp oregano (orégano)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (sal y pimienta)
  • Banana leaves for wrapping (hojas de plátano)

✨ What Makes It Special

Pollo Pibil stands out for its vibrant red color and earthy flavors, thanks to the signature achiote marinade. This dish often showcases the traditional technique of cooking underground, known as "pib" in Mayan, where the meat is slow-roasted to perfection.

📝 Ingredients

  • Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

    • In a blender, combine achiote paste, garlic, orange juice, white vinegar, lime juice, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
    • Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.

  • Step 2: Cooking the Pollo Pibil

    • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
    • Line a baking dish with banana leaves, allowing excess to hang over the sides.
    • Place the marinated chicken on the banana leaves, cover with more leaves, and fold to seal the package.
    • Bake for about 2 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation: 20 minutes
  • Marinating: 2 hours or overnight
  • Cooking: 2 hours

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pollo Pibil is traditionally served with warm tortillas, pickled onions, sliced radishes, and habanero salsa. Create a DIY taco station for a festive and interactive dining experience that mirrors the communal spirit of Mexican cuisine.

💭 Chef's Notes

  • For an authentic touch, consider grilling the banana leaves briefly over an open flame to enhance the smoky aroma.
  • If banana leaves are unavailable, parchment paper can be used as a substitute for wrapping the chicken.

📦 Storage

Store any leftover Pollo Pibil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the flavors and tenderness of the dish.

Pollo Pibil holds a significant place in Mexican cuisine, representing a harmonious fusion of Mayan heritage and Spanish influences. The dish's bold flavors and unique preparation method exemplify the cultural diversity and culinary richness of the Yucatán region, making it a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic tastes of Mexico.