Cochinita Pibil

Ingredients

In this Indonesian adaptation, we will be using a variety of traditional Indonesian spices such as lemongrass, galangal, and tamarind, which will infuse the pork with a unique and vibrant flavor. Additionally, we will be serving the Cochinita Pibil with Indonesian-style condiments and side dishes to complement the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Cochinita pibil, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) pork shoulder, cut into chunks 2 pounds (900g) pork shoulder, cut into chunks
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
• 1 tablespoon galangal, grated 1 tablespoon galangal, grated
• 2 tablespoons tamarind paste 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
• 2 tablespoons palm sugar 2 tablespoons palm sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Banana leaves, for wrapping (optional) Banana leaves, for wrapping (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 5g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic, ginger, lemongrass, galangal, tamarind paste, palm sugar, soy sauce, fish sauce, ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Blend until smooth to make the marinade.
2. 2.
   Place the pork shoulder chunks in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Mix well, ensuring all the pork is coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
4. 4.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5. 5.
   If using banana leaves, line the pot with them before adding the pork. This will help infuse the dish with a subtle aroma.
6. 6.
   Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
7. 7.
   Remove the pot from the oven and let the pork rest for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks.
8. 8.
   Serve the Indonesian-style Spiced Roast Pork with steamed rice, sambal (Indonesian chili sauce), pickled vegetables, and sliced cucumbers.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — Remove the tough outer layers before bruising and using in the marinade.
• Galangal — If fresh galangal is not available, you can substitute it with dried galangal powder.
• Tamarind paste — If you can't find tamarind paste, you can use lime juice as a substitute.
• Palm sugar — If palm sugar is not available, you can use brown sugar as a substitute.
• Banana leaves — If you can't find banana leaves, you can omit them or use aluminum foil to wrap the pork before roasting.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra smoky flavor, you can grill the marinated pork on a charcoal grill instead of roasting it in the oven.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add more chili powder or fresh chili peppers to the marinade.
• Leftover Indonesian-style Spiced Roast Pork can be used in sandwiches, tacos, or salads for a delicious twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Indonesian-style Spiced Roast Pork with steamed rice, sambal (Indonesian chili sauce), pickled vegetables, and sliced cucumbers. Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil leaves for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the shredded pork on a platter and drizzle some of the cooking juices over it for a glossy appearance. Place the condiments and side dishes in separate bowls around the pork for a visually appealing presentation.