What is Cochinita Pibil?

Cochinity Pibil is the pork food that came in Mexico in the Yucatan area. Originally referred to the whole pig, which was marinated with spices and bitter orange juice before it was packed in banana leaves and cooked very slowly in the pit until it was soft and juicy. Most recipes have changed over time and began to use ingredients that were more practical for the average household. A more common way to prepare a cochinity of pibil is the use of pork loin or pork arm, which is marinated and then packed in foil and baked at low temperature for a long time. Completed pork can be shredded and served on torties or presented to pickled onions or shallots. This is the red seed of the fruit of the Achiote tree that grows in Mexico. It has a very clear, floral, pepper and walnut taste. It is often sold either as a powder or as a paste mixed with garlic and salt. The Annatto seed lends a dark red color to the pork. The exact folders with mThe main elements are Annatto Paste, garlic and bitter orange juice, which can be softened with a supply or water. Bitter orange juice is not always available, so regular orange juice mixed with lime or lemon juice can also be used. The ingredients are mixed together, sometimes into a very free liquid and sometimes to a thick paste.

pork that is used can either be left whole or diced. If the whole is left, pork should be perforated with a knife to provide the marinade a way to get to the center of the meat. The marinade should be spread over as much meat and then leave anywhere between 12 and 24 hours.

The authentic version of Cochinita Pibil uses banana leaves to pack meat, although foils or any flexible, waterproof packaging can be used. Not only is marinated meat packed, but the package is also included marinade, sometimeswith the addition of another butter or a lard. Wrapped pork is then placed in low heat oven.

The goal of cooking Cochinita Pibil is to slowly cook the meat, so the marinade and steam keep it wet. Cooking can take several hours, depending on the heat used. Upon completion, the pork should be fine enough to be easily shredded. Typical spices served in meat are pickled onions, salsa and roast vegetables. Meat is very often a tablespoon of warm tortillas and consumed as a taco.