Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLa Hacienda Dover AFBCochinita Pipil Recipe

Cochinita Pipil Recipe

Time5h 30m
Serves6

A very traditional platter that dates back to Mayan times. Slow-braised pork in a red chile sauce that captures the essence of our traditions, corn tortillas are recommended.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

For the Red Chile Sauce

For Serving

Method

Preparing the Pork

  1. 1

    Marinate the Pork

    In a large bowl, mix the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, and bay leaves. Add the pork shoulder to the mixture, ensuring it is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

  2. 2

    Slow Cook the Pork

    Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Transfer the marinated pork to a Dutch oven or a large oven-safe pot. Add any remaining marinade and cover tightly. Cook in the oven for about 4 to 5 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.

Preparing the Red Chile Sauce

  1. 3

    Prepare the Chiles

    Remove stems and seeds from the dried ancho and guajillo chiles. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chiles for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.

  2. 4

    Blend the Sauce

    In a blender, combine the toasted chiles, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, and water. Blend until smooth. If too thick, add more water as needed.

  3. 5

    Cook the Sauce

    Pour the blended sauce into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until the flavors meld together.

Final Assembly

  1. 6

    Shred the Pork

    Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the pork using two forks, discarding any excess fat.

  2. 7

    Combine with Sauce

    In a large bowl, mix the shredded pork with the red chile sauce until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed.

  3. 8

    Serve

    Serve the Cochinita Pibil warm with corn tortillas, pickled red onions, and fresh cilantro on the side.

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