Cochinita Pibil with a Nordic Twist

Ingredients

While the original Cochinita Pibil is traditionally cooked in banana leaves and flavored with achiote paste, this Nordic adaptation introduces a blend of Nordic herbs and spices, such as dill, juniper berries, and caraway seeds. Additionally, instead of using banana leaves, we will slow-cook the pork in a covered casserole dish, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. 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 tablespoon rapeseed oil 1 tablespoon rapeseed oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon dried dill 1 tablespoon dried dill
• 1 teaspoon juniper berries, crushed 1 teaspoon juniper berries, crushed
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 4 garlic cloves, minced 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 oranges, juice and zest 2 oranges, juice and zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 5g)
• Carbohydrates: 8g (Sugars: 4g)
• Protein: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the rapeseed oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, honey, cumin, coriander, dried dill, crushed juniper berries, caraway seeds, minced garlic, sliced red onion, orange juice, and zest. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper, then add it to the marinade. Ensure the pork is well coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
4. 4.
   Transfer the marinated pork and marinade to a covered casserole dish. Place it in the preheated oven and cook for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. 5.
   Once cooked, remove the pork from the casserole dish and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the dish and mix it with the cooking juices.
6. 6.
   Adjust the seasoning if needed and serve the Nordic-inspired Cochinita Pibil hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork shoulder — Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Juniper berries — Crushing the berries releases their aromatic oils, enhancing the dish's flavor profile.
• Dill — Use dried dill for a more concentrated flavor, or fresh dill if available.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra Nordic touch, serve the Cochinita Pibil on a bed of pickled vegetables, such as pickled cucumbers or radishes.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of dried chili flakes to the marinade.
• Leftover Cochinita Pibil makes a delicious filling for tacos or sandwiches the next day.
• Serve with a side of rye bread or Nordic-style potato salad for a complete meal.
• Experiment with different Nordic herbs and spices to personalize the flavor profile of the dish.

Serving advice

Serve the Nordic-Inspired Cochinita Pibil as a main course, accompanied by a side of pickled vegetables and a slice of rye bread. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the shredded pork on a platter, drizzling some of the cooking juices over the top. Sprinkle with orange zest and dill leaves for a vibrant and visually appealing presentation.