Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsFat Rosie's Taco and Tequila BarCochinita Pibil (authentic Yucatán Dish) Recipe

Cochinita Pibil (authentic Yucatán Dish) Recipe

Time5h
Serves6

Achiote- and citrus-marinated braised pork shoulder wrapped & cooked in banana leaves. Served with black beans, queso fresco, pickled red onions, cilantro, habanero salsa & corn tortillas.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

For Serving

Method

Preparation of the Marinade

  1. 1

    Prepare the Achiote Marinade

    In a bowl, combine achiote paste, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the paste is dissolved.

Marinating the Pork

  1. 2

    Marinate the Pork

    Cut the pork shoulder into large chunks and place it in a large dish. Pour the achiote marinade over the pork, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Cooking the Pork

  1. 3

    Prepare Banana Leaves

    Soften the banana leaves by passing them over an open flame or boiling them briefly until pliable. Lay out the leaves on a flat surface.

  2. 4

    Wrap the Pork

    Place the marinated pork in the center of the banana leaves. Fold the leaves over the pork to create a package, securing it with kitchen twine if necessary.

  3. 5

    Cook the Pork

    Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Place the wrapped pork in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 4-5 hours until the pork is tender and easily shredded.

Preparing the Sides

  1. 6

    Cook the Black Beans

    If using dried black beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender. If using canned, simply heat them in a saucepan.

  2. 7

    Prepare the Garnishes

    Chop the cilantro, crumble the queso fresco, and have the pickled red onions and habanero salsa ready for serving.

  3. 8

    Warm the Tortillas

    Heat the corn tortillas on a skillet or griddle until warm and pliable.

Serving

  1. 9

    Serve the Cochinita Pibil

    Once the pork is cooked, unwrap it and shred the meat. Serve it with black beans, queso fresco, pickled red onions, fresh cilantro, habanero salsa, and warm corn tortillas.

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