Tortitas de cochinita pibil is a traditional Mexican dish enjoyed by many. It's a savory and hearty meal that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The dish is made from pork that has been marinated in citrus and achiote, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked in an underground oven. It is then shredded and served with a variety of accompaniments, including pickled red onions, cilantro, and a spicy habanero sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons achiote paste
- 2 tablespoons garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 banana leaves, softened
- Pickled red onions, for serving
- Cilantro leaves, for serving
- Habanero sauce, for serving
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the pork cubes, lime juice, orange juice, vinegar, achiote paste, garlic paste, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix to combine, then cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat an underground oven or a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the bay leaves, then add the marinated pork and marinade. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 1 1/2 hours.
- While the pork is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the softened banana leaves in the skillet and cook until lightly browned, about 2 minutes per side. Set aside.
- When the pork is done cooking, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Using two forks, shred the pork into small pieces. Place the shredded pork in a bowl and mix in the banana leaves. Serve with pickled red onions, cilantro leaves, and habanero sauce, if desired.
People Also Ask
What is cochinita pibil?
Cochinita pibil is a traditional Mexican dish made from pork that has been marinated in citrus and achiote, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked in an underground oven. It is then shredded and served with a variety of accompaniments, including pickled red onions, cilantro, and a spicy habanero sauce.
How do you make cochinita pibil?
To make cochinita pibil, you will need to marinate the pork in a mixture of lime juice, orange juice, vinegar, achiote paste, garlic paste, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Once marinated, the pork is slow-cooked in an underground oven or Dutch oven. When the pork is done cooking, it is shredded and served with pickled red onions, cilantro leaves, and habanero sauce.
What is the difference between cochinita pibil and carnitas?
The main difference between cochinita pibil and carnitas is that cochinita pibil is marinated in citrus and achiote, while carnitas is typically marinated in garlic and herbs. Cochinita pibil is also slow-cooked in an underground oven or Dutch oven, while carnitas is usually cooked in a pot or slow-cooker. Additionally, cochinita pibil is often served with pickled red onions, cilantro leaves, and a spicy habanero sauce, while carnitas is typically served with salsa and lime wedges.
