Cochinita Pibil

Cochinita Pibil is a traditional Mexican dish featuring tender, slow-cooked pork marinated in a vibrant blend of spices and citrus juices. This high-protein version pairs the rich flavors of achiote with lean pork, making it a delicious and nutritious lunch option.

Ingredients

• Pork shoulder - 400 grams
• Achiote paste - 50 grams
• Orange juice - 100 ml
• Lime juice - 30 ml
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Oregano - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Banana leaves - 1 large (or aluminum foil if unavailable)
• Red onion - 1 medium, sliced
• Fresh cilantro - for garnish
• Corn tortillas - 4 small

Steps

1. In a bowl, combine achiote paste, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
2. Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks and coat it thoroughly with the marinade. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
3. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
4. If using banana leaves, briefly heat them over an open flame or in a dry skillet to make them pliable. Lay them in a baking dish, leaving enough overhang to cover the pork later.
5. Place the marinated pork in the center of the banana leaves, then fold the leaves over the pork to enclose it completely. If using foil, wrap the pork tightly in aluminum foil instead.
6. Cover the baking dish with a lid or additional foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
7. Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before unwrapping.
8. Shred the pork with two forks and serve it on warm corn tortillas, topped with sliced red onion and fresh cilantro.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 36 g
• Carbs: 32 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 950 mg
• Cholesterol: 90 mg
• Total Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
• Contains antioxidants from the achiote and fresh herbs, promoting overall health.

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