Enhanced Recipesculinary collection
Home
CoursesView CuisinesWhat Can I Make?My Kitchen

The Perfect Cochinita Pibil in Yucatán | Pati Jinich | Pati's Mexican Table

Login to Save
9.5K views👍 326
Pati Jinich
Pati Jinich
63 recipes on Enhanced Recipes
Follow Pati Jinich to prioritize their recipes in your meal plans, pantry matches, and suggestions

Recipes in this Video

2 recipes

Cochinita Pibil hails from the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, where it is traditionally cooked in an underground pit, a method known as 'pibil.' This dish is significant for its rich flavors and cultural heritage, often served during special occasions and festivals. Today, it has gained popularity beyond Mexico, with many variations found in Mexican restaurants worldwide, showcasing the beloved flavors of Yucatán cuisine.

Ingredients

  • pork shoulder
  • achiote paste
  • orange juice
  • lime juice
  • garlic
  • cumin
  • oregano
  • bay leaves
  • salt
  • pepper
  • banana leaves
  • red onion
  • cilantro
  • sour cream
  • tortillas

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. 2Mix achiote paste, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  3. 3Rub the marinade all over the pork shoulder, ensuring it's well coated.
  4. 4Wrap the marinated pork in banana leaves, sealing it tightly.
  5. 5Place the wrapped pork in a baking dish or dutch oven.
  6. 6Add bay leaves on top of the wrapped pork.
  7. 7Cover the dish with a lid or foil to trap steam.
  8. 8Bake in the preheated oven for 4-6 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
  9. 9Remove from oven and let it rest for 30 minutes.
  10. 10Unwrap the pork and shred it using two forks.
  11. 11Serve the shredded pork on warm tortillas, topped with pickled red onion and cilantro.

Ingredient Alternatives

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.

Techniques

marinatingwrappingshredding

Equipment

ovenbaking dishmixing bowlfoilknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Medium

Also Known As

Pibil PorkCochinita
pescatarian

Salbutes are a beloved dish in Belize, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings. They reflect the country's rich culinary heritage, combining indigenous ingredients with influences from various cultures. Traditionally served with chicken, they can also feature seafood or vegetables, showcasing the versatility of this dish. Today, salbutes are popular not just in Belize but also in neighboring countries, celebrated for their crispy texture and vibrant toppings.

Ingredients

  • corn tortillas
  • cooked chicken
  • shredded lettuce
  • tomato
  • onion
  • cilantro
  • avocado
  • hot sauce

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare the corn tortillas by frying them in hot oil until puffed and golden brown.
  2. 2Remove the tortillas and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  3. 3Shred the cooked chicken and season with salt and pepper.
  4. 4Top each tortilla with a layer of shredded chicken.
  5. 5Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and chopped onions on top of the chicken.
  6. 6Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the toppings for added flavor.
  7. 7Slice avocado and place on top of each salbute.
  8. 8Drizzle with hot sauce or salsa to taste.
  9. 9Serve immediately while the tortillas are warm and crispy.

Ingredient Alternatives

cooked chicken

Healthier: grilled chicken

Cheaper: canned chicken

Canned chicken is more affordable and saves time.

corn tortillas

Healthier: whole grain tortillas

Cheaper: flour tortillas

Flour tortillas are often less expensive.

hot sauce

Healthier: salsa

Cheaper: homemade hot sauce

Homemade options can be cheaper and healthier.

avocado

Healthier: mashed peas

Cheaper: sour cream

Mashed peas provide a similar texture at a lower cost.

Techniques

frying

Equipment

frying panslotted spoonpaper towels
🌶️🌶️🌶️Medium

Also Known As

Salbutes de PolloSalbutes de Pescado

More Cochinita Pibil Videos

(24 videos)

Similar Mexican Videos

(24 videos)

Similar Dishes From Other Cuisines

(24 videos)