Discover the traditional flavor of Cochinita Pibil with this authentic recipe. Impress your friends and family with this delicious Mexican pork dish.
Cochinita Pibil is a popular Mexican pork dish that is loved by many. This dish is made by slow-cooking pork that has been marinated in spices and citrus. It is a must-try for those who enjoy bold and flavorful dishes. In this step-by-step guide, we will show you how to make this traditional dish in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients
- 4 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 tbsp achiote paste
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 8-10 banana leaves, thawed (if using frozen)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
Preparation
- In a large bowl, mix together the orange juice, lime juice, vinegar, achiote paste, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and garlic.
- Add the pork to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Line a large roasting pan with banana leaves, making sure to overlap the edges.
- Remove the pork from the marinade and place it in the roasting pan.
- Top the pork with the sliced onions.
- Fold the banana leaves over the pork to completely cover it.
- Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and place it in the oven.
- Bake the pork for 2-3 hours, or until it is tender and cooked through.
- Serve the Cochinita Pibil hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.

Tips and Tricks
- If you cannot find banana leaves, you can use aluminum foil or parchment paper as a substitute.
- For a spicier dish, you can add more achiote paste or cumin to the marinade.
- For a smoky flavor, you can also slow-cook the pork on a grill or smoker instead of in the oven.
Variants
- You can also add additional ingredients to the marinade, such as diced jalapeños or diced pineapple.
Cochinita Pibil is a delicious Mexican pork dish that is perfect for those who enjoy bold and flavorful dishes. By following this step-by-step recipe, you can create a traditional and authentic dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. With the combination of slow-cooked pork, spices, and citrus, this dish is a mouthwatering experience that you won’t forget. Serve it with warm tortillas and a side of rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!
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