Cochinita Pibil Tacos

Ingredients

In Mexican-American cuisine, Cochinita Pibil is often adapted to suit local tastes and preferences. While the core flavors and cooking techniques remain the same, some variations may include the addition of ingredients like cumin, garlic powder, and chipotle peppers to enhance the smoky and spicy profile. Additionally, the tacos are typically served with popular Mexican-American toppings such as sour cream, avocado, and shredded cheese. 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
• 1/2 cup (120ml) orange juice 1/2 cup (120ml) orange juice
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lime juice 1/4 cup (60ml) lime juice
• 3 tablespoons achiote paste 3 tablespoons achiote paste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving
• Soft tortillas, for serving Soft tortillas, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a blender, combine the orange juice, lime juice, achiote paste, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Blend until smooth.
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 preferably overnight.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
4. 4.
   Transfer the marinated pork and its marinade to a baking dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. 5.
   While the pork is cooking, prepare the pickled onions. In a small bowl, combine the thinly sliced red onion, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Mix well and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. 6.
   Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven and shred it using two forks.
7. 7.
   To serve, warm the soft tortillas and fill each with a generous amount of the shredded pork. Top with pickled onions and fresh cilantro. Squeeze a lime wedge over each taco for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
8. 8.
   Enjoy the Cochinita Pibil Tacos while they are still warm and savor the delicious blend of Mexican-American flavors.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Achiote paste — If you can't find achiote paste, you can make a substitute by combining equal parts paprika, cumin, and turmeric. This will provide a similar flavor and color to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra smoky flavor, you can add a small amount of liquid smoke to the marinade.
• If you prefer spicier tacos, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the marinade.
• To save time, you can use a slow cooker instead of the oven. Cook the marinated pork on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until tender.
• Leftover Cochinita Pibil can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and used as a filling for quesadillas, burritos, or nachos.
• If you want a crispy texture, lightly toast the tortillas on a dry skillet before filling them with the shredded pork.

Serving advice

Serve the Cochinita Pibil Tacos with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete Mexican-American meal. Offer additional toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, and shredded cheese for guests to customize their tacos according to their preferences.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Cochinita Pibil Tacos on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges. The vibrant red color of the pork and the contrasting colors of the pickled onions and cilantro will make the dish visually appealing.