Pati Jinich - The Best Cochinita Pibil from Yucatán

pork shoulder

🥗Healthier: chicken thighs

💰Cheaper: pork loin

Chicken thighs are lower in fat, while pork loin is often less expensive.

achiote paste

🥗Healthier: smoked paprika + cumin

💰Cheaper: red chili powder

Smoked paprika and cumin can mimic the flavor profile of achiote.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: plain yogurt

Greek yogurt provides similar creaminess with fewer calories.

banana leaves

🥗Healthier: parchment paper

💰Cheaper: foil

Parchment paper can be used for wrapping, while foil is more accessible.

Put on an apron before starting to cook.

Prepare the achiote paste by mixing it with bitter orange and lard for marinating the pork.

Cover the pork with banana leaves as part of the preparation process.

Cook the cochinita pibil for 4 hours until tender.

Once cooked, the meat should fall apart easily when touched.

Serve the cochinita pibil with pickled onion, habanero, and bitter orange.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary