Vegan Cochinita Pibil

Ingredients

The main difference in this vegan adaptation of Cochinita Pibil lies in the substitution of pork with jackfruit, a versatile fruit that mimics the texture of meat. Additionally, we replace the traditional achiote paste with a homemade vegan version, ensuring a cruelty-free and plant-based experience. We alse have the original recipe for Cochinita pibil, so you can check it out.

• 2 cans (20 oz) young jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed 2 cans (20 oz) young jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegan Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons vegan Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons orange juice 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 banana leaves (optional, for wrapping) 4 banana leaves (optional, for wrapping)
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 10g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
2. 2.
   Add the drained jackfruit to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, orange juice, lime juice, tomato paste, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper.
4. 4.
   Pour the sauce over the jackfruit in the skillet and stir well to coat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   While the jackfruit simmers, preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
6. 6.
   If using banana leaves, briefly pass them over an open flame to soften and make them pliable.
7. 7.
   Transfer the jackfruit mixture to a baking dish lined with banana leaves (if using) or parchment paper. Cover the dish with more banana leaves or parchment paper, and then tightly wrap it with aluminum foil.
8. 8.
   Place the wrapped dish in the preheated oven and bake for 2 hours, or until the jackfruit is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
9. 9.
   Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Unwrap the banana leaves (if using) and discard them.
10. 10.
    Using two forks, shred the jackfruit into smaller pieces, resembling pulled pork.
11. 11.
    Serve the Vegan Cochinita Pibil on warm tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Jackfruit — Make sure to use young jackfruit in brine, as it has a meat-like texture. Rinse the jackfruit thoroughly to remove any brine taste before using.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can add a small amount of liquid smoke to the sauce.
• If you can't find banana leaves, parchment paper works well for baking and wrapping the dish.
• Serve the Vegan Cochinita Pibil with pickled onions and habanero salsa for an authentic Mexican experience.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Serving advice

Serve the Vegan Cochinita Pibil on warm tortillas, accompanied by pickled onions, habanero salsa, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. This dish pairs well with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, place the shredded jackfruit on a platter lined with fresh banana leaves. Garnish with sprigs of cilantro and lime wedges for an inviting and colorful display.