Cochinita Pibil

Cochinita Pibil is a traditional Mexican dish hailing from the Yucatán Peninsula. Known for its vibrant flavors and tender pork, it is typically slow-cooked wrapped in banana leaves. This recipe gives you a slightly different twist, allowing you to enjoy a taste of Mexico with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Ingredients:

🐖 4 1/2 pounds pork shoulder, bone-in
🥄 2 tablespoons pork lard
⚫ 1 tablespoon peppercorn
🌿 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
🍃 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
🧄 4 cloves garlic, peeled
🌿 1 stick of cinnamon
🌶️ 1 habanero pepper
🧅 1/2 red onion
🍊 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
🍋 Juice of 2 lemons
🍈 Juice of 2 limes
🟠 Achiote paste
🍃 Banana leaves for wrapping
🧂 Salt to taste
🌿 8-10 bay leaves
🍅 1 tomato, sliced
🧅 Some green onions
❤️ 1 red bell pepper, sliced
💧 2 cups of water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a blender, combine pork lard, peppercorn, cumin seeds, Mexican oregano, garlic, cinnamon stick, habanero pepper, red onion, orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, and achiote paste.
   • Blend everything until smooth to create the marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork:
   • Place the pork shoulder in a large dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s fully coated.
   • Marinate the pork for at least one hour in the refrigerator. For deeper flavor, consider marinating overnight.
3. Prepare the Banana Leaves:
   • Wipe the banana leaves clean with a damp white towel to remove any dirt or residues.
4. Wrap the Pork:
   • Place the marinated pork in the center of the banana leaves. Add a little more marinade over the pork if desired.
   • Sprinkle with salt and arrange bay leaves around the pork.
   • Add tomato slices, green onions, and red bell pepper slices on top.
   • Wrap the banana leaves securely around the pork and ingredients to form a parcel.
5. Cook the Pork:
   • Place a grill or rack at the bottom of a large pressure cooker.
   • Add 2 cups of water to the bottom of the pressure cooker.
   • Place the wrapped pork on the grill or rack and cook on high pressure for 1 hour.
6. Serve:
   • Carefully unwrap the banana leaves. The pork should be tender and falling apart.
   • Shred the pork using forks and serve with sides of your choice, such as tortillas, rice, or beans.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: Serves approximately 8 people

Cooking Tips:

• Handle the habanero pepper with care to avoid skin irritation.
• Adjust the number of spices to suit your taste if you prefer a milder dish.

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Cochinita Pibil