Name: Easy Cochinita Pibil (Mexican Pulled Pork) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4-5 lbs pork shoulder or pork loin; 1 cup orange juice; ⅓ cup lime juice; 3½ oz achiote paste; 1 tsp ground cumin; sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper; For Suggested Serving:; pickled red onions; fresh cilantro; fresh lime wedges; corn or flour tortillas; Guacamole; refried beans; crumbled cotija cheese

Discover the rich flavors of Cochinita Pibil, a traditional Mexican dish that's both flavorful and easy to prepare. This pulled pork recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful blend of citrus and earthy spices.

Photos of Easy Cochinita Pibil (Mexican Pulled Pork) Recipe

One ingredient that may not be commonly found in your kitchen is achiote paste. This traditional Mexican seasoning is made from annatto seeds and adds a distinctive color and flavor to the dish. You can find it in the Latin American section of your supermarket. Ensure your orange juice and lime juice are fresh to enhance the zesty marinade.

Ingredients For Easy Cochinita Pibil (Mexican Pulled Pork)

Pork shoulder: A fatty cut of meat that becomes tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.

Pork loin: A leaner cut of pork that still works well for this recipe if you prefer less fat.

Orange juice: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the marinade.

Lime juice: Provides acidity and freshness to balance the dish.

Achiote paste: A key ingredient that infuses the pork with a deep red color and earthy flavor.

Ground cumin: Adds a warm, aromatic spice to the marinade.

Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Freshly-cracked black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complexity.

Pickled red onions: Tangy and crunchy, perfect for topping the pulled pork.

Fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of herbal freshness.

Fresh lime wedges: For an extra squeeze of tangy flavor.

Corn or flour tortillas: Soft and perfect for wrapping up the pulled pork.

Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip to complement the pork.

Refried beans: A classic side that pairs well with the pork.

Crumbled cotija cheese: A salty, crumbly cheese that adds an extra layer of flavor.

One reader, Dorry Hairston says:

This easy cochinita pibil recipe is a game-changer! The pork is incredibly tender and flavorful, thanks to the vibrant marinade. Perfect for tacos with pickled onions and fresh cilantro. A must-try for any Mexican food lover!

Dorry Hairston

Techniques Required for Making Cochinita Pibil

How to combine ingredients in a blender: Add the achiote paste, orange juice, lime juice, and cumin to a blender or food processor and pulse briefly until combined.

How to use a pressure cooker or slow cooker: Place the pork in the bowl of the pressure cooker or slow cooker, drizzle it evenly with the marinade, and toss briefly to combine. Ensure the lid is securely placed on the pressure cooker, setting the vent appropriately.

How to shred pork: After cooking, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces and toss it briefly with the remaining juices.

How to season to taste: Taste the shredded pork and season with salt and pepper as needed.

How to garnish and serve: Serve the pork warm, garnished with pickled red onions and chopped fresh cilantro, plus any additional toppings like fresh lime wedges, corn or flour tortillas, guacamole, refried beans, and crumbled cotija cheese.

How To Make Easy Cochinita Pibil (Mexican Pulled Pork)

This cochinita pibil is made with pulled pork shoulder cooked with citrus juice and achiote paste for a blend of tangy and savory flavors.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4-5lbspork shoulder or pork loin,cut in 1½-inch chunks
1cuporange juice,freshly-squeezed
⅓cuplime juice,freshly-squeezed
3½ozachiote paste,(1 package)
1tspground cumin
sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper

For Suggested Serving:

pickled red onions
fresh cilantro,chopped
fresh lime wedges
corn or flour tortillas
guacamole
refried beans
crumbled cotija cheese

Instructions

Prep the marinade by combining the achiote paste, orange juice, lime juice, and cumin in a blender or food processor. Pulse briefly until combined.
Place the pork in the bowl of the pressure cooker or slow cooker, then drizzle the pork evenly with the marinade. Toss briefly to combine. (Then rinse out the blender, so that the achiote does not stain it.)
Place the lid on the pressure cooker (setting the vent to “sealing”) or slow cooker. Then either pressure cook the pork on manual for 40 minutes, followed by a 15-minute natural release. Or slow cook the pork on High for 5 hours or on Low for 8 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
Remove the lid, then use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, and toss it briefly with the remaining juices.
Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve warm, garnished with pickled red onions and chopped fresh cilantro, plus any additional toppings.

Nutrition

Calories: 445.18kcal
Fat: 32.77g
Saturated Fat: 11.33g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.58g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.51g
Carbohydrates: 4.32g
Fiber: 0.40g
Sugar: 2.39g
Protein: 31.52g
Cholesterol: 128.82mg
Sodium: 523.51mg
Calcium: 37.54mg
Potassium: 630.97mg
Iron: 2.19mg
Vitamin A: 14.08µg
Vitamin C: 19.15mg

Key Technique Tip for Perfect Cochinita Pibil

To achieve the most flavorful cochinita pibil, marinate the pork overnight in the achiote paste mixture. This allows the pork to absorb the vibrant flavors of the orange juice, lime juice, and cumin. Additionally, sear the pork on all sides before placing it in the pressure cooker or slow cooker to develop a rich, caramelized crust that enhances the overall taste.

Time-Saving Tips for Easy Cochinita Pibil

Prep the marinade ahead: Combine the achiote paste, orange juice, lime juice, and cumin in advance and store in the fridge.

Use a pressure cooker: Opt for a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker to cut down cooking time significantly.

Pre-chop toppings: Have your pickled red onions, cilantro, and lime wedges ready to go before you start cooking.

Double the recipe: Make extra cochinita pibil and freeze portions for quick meals later.

Instant pot for beans: Use an Instant Pot to quickly prepare refried beans while the pork cooks.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Cochinita Pibil (Mexican Pulled Pork) Recipe

Pork shoulder - Substitute with beef chuck roast: Beef chuck roast has a similar texture and fat content, making it a good alternative for slow-cooked dishes.
Pork loin - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicy and tender, providing a similar texture to pork loin when cooked.
Orange juice - Substitute with pineapple juice: Pineapple juice offers a similar sweetness and acidity, which helps tenderize the meat.
Lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice has a comparable acidity level, making it a suitable replacement for lime juice.
Achiote paste - Substitute with paprika and turmeric mixture: A blend of paprika and turmeric can mimic the color and some of the flavor profile of achiote paste.
Ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a warm, earthy flavor that can serve as a good alternative to cumin.
Sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and flavor, making it an easy swap for sea salt.
Freshly-cracked black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and can be used in place of black pepper.
Pickled red onions - Substitute with pickled shallots: Pickled shallots have a similar tangy flavor and crunchy texture.
Fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley offers a similar fresh, green flavor, though it is less pungent than cilantro.
Fresh lime wedges - Substitute with fresh lemon wedges: Fresh lemon wedges provide a similar acidity and can be used in place of lime wedges.
Corn tortillas - Substitute with flour tortillas: Flour tortillas are a common alternative and can be used interchangeably with corn tortillas.
Flour tortillas - Substitute with lettuce wraps: Lettuce wraps offer a low-carb option and provide a fresh, crunchy texture.
Guacamole - Substitute with avocado slices: Avocado slices provide a similar creamy texture and flavor without the additional ingredients in guacamole.
Refried beans - Substitute with black bean puree: Black bean puree offers a similar creamy texture and can be seasoned to taste like refried beans.
Crumbled cotija cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor, making it a good alternative to cotija cheese.

Best Way to Present Easy Cochinita Pibil

Use a fine dining plate: Select a large, white, and elegant plate to highlight the vibrant colors of the cochinita pibil and its accompaniments.
Create a base with tortillas: Lightly toast corn tortillas or flour tortillas and place them neatly on one side of the plate, slightly overlapping.
Arrange the pork artfully: Place a generous portion of the shredded pork on top of the tortillas, ensuring it is evenly distributed and not too piled up.
Add pickled red onions: Scatter a small handful of pickled red onions over the pork for a burst of color and tangy flavor.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the dish to add a touch of green and freshness.
Serve lime wedges: Place a few fresh lime wedges on the side of the plate for an interactive element, allowing diners to squeeze fresh juice over their dish.
Include guacamole: Add a quenelle of guacamole next to the tortillas for a creamy and rich contrast.
Add refried beans: Place a small, elegant dollop of refried beans on the plate, perhaps using a ring mold for a clean presentation.
Sprinkle cotija cheese: Lightly crumble cotija cheese over the entire dish for a salty and creamy finish.
Drizzle with marinade juices: Just before serving, drizzle a bit of the remaining marinade juices over the pork to enhance its flavor and add a glossy finish.

Essential Tools for Making Cochinita Pibil

Blender: Used to combine the achiote paste, orange juice, lime juice, and cumin into a smooth marinade.
Pressure cooker: An appliance to cook the pork quickly and efficiently, ensuring it becomes tender and flavorful.
Slow cooker: An alternative to the pressure cooker, allowing the pork to cook slowly over several hours for a rich, deep flavor.
Forks: Essential for shredding the cooked pork into bite-sized pieces.
Measuring cups: Used to accurately measure the orange juice, lime juice, and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the ground cumin and other seasonings.
Mixing bowl: Used to hold the pork while it is being drizzled with the marinade.
Knife: For chopping fresh cilantro and cutting lime wedges for serving.
Cutting board: A surface to chop the cilantro and prepare other toppings.
Serving platter: To present the cochinita pibil with all the suggested toppings and sides.
Tongs: Useful for handling the pork and serving it onto tortillas.
Ramekins: Small dishes to hold the pickled red onions, guacamole, and other toppings.
Spoon: For serving the refried beans and other sides.

How To Store and Freeze Cochinita Pibil

Let the cochinita pibil cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, place the cooled pork in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep well for up to 4-5 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the cochinita pibil, follow these steps:
- Divide the cooled pork into portion-sized amounts that you'll likely use in one sitting. This will allow you to thaw only what you need later.
- Place each portion into a freezer-safe, airtight container or resealable plastic freezer bag. If using bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and amount of pork inside.
- Lay the bags flat in the freezer for easier storage and quicker thawing later.
- Frozen cochinita pibil will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months. After that, it will still be safe to eat but may have a slightly altered texture or taste.
To reheat refrigerated or frozen cochinita pibil:
- If frozen, thaw the pork overnight in the refrigerator.
- Place the thawed or refrigerated pork in a microwave-safe dish or in a saucepan on the stovetop.
- Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave until the pork is heated through and steaming. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
- If the pork seems dry, add a splash of water, chicken broth, or orange juice to help moisten it as it reheats.

How To Reheat Cochinita Pibil Leftovers

Reheat in a slow cooker or pressure cooker: Place the leftover cochinita pibil in the slow cooker or pressure cooker, add a splash of orange juice or chicken broth, and cook on low heat until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the meat.
Reheat in the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cochinita pibil in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. For a crispy texture, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating.
Reheat on the stovetop: Place the leftover cochinita pibil in a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of orange juice or chicken broth to prevent the meat from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Reheat in the microwave: Place the leftover cochinita pibil in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Stir the meat halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
Reheat and repurpose: Shred the leftover cochinita pibil and use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, enchiladas, or quesadillas. You can also add it to salads, sandwiches, or nachos for a quick and tasty meal.

Random Fact About Cochinita Pibil

Achiote paste, a key ingredient in cochinita pibil, is made from annatto seeds, which give the dish its distinctive red color and earthy flavor.

Is Making Cochinita Pibil at Home Cost-Effective?

The cochinita pibil recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using pork shoulder or pork loin as the main protein, combined with affordable ingredients like orange juice, lime juice, and achiote paste, makes it budget-friendly. The suggested toppings such as pickled red onions, fresh cilantro, and corn tortillas are also inexpensive. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost: $25-$30 for a household of 4 people.

Is Cochinita Pibil Healthy or Unhealthy?

The cochinita pibil recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that could be considered unhealthy:

Pork shoulder and loin are relatively high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess.
The recipe lacks vegetables, which are essential for providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Depending on the serving size and accompaniments, this dish could be high in calories.

However, there are also some positive aspects:

The marinade includes citrus juices, which provide vitamin C and can help tenderize the meat.
Achiote paste contains annatto seeds, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Cumin is known for its digestive benefits and potential to improve blood cholesterol levels.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Trim any visible fat from the pork to reduce the overall fat content.
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as sautéed bell peppers and onions, or serve the pork with a side salad.
Use whole grain tortillas instead of refined flour tortillas to increase the fiber content.
Serve the pork with a variety of fresh toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, and lime wedges, to add nutrients and flavor without relying on high-calorie condiments.
Control portion sizes to keep calorie intake in check, and balance the meal with other nutrient-dense foods throughout the day.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of cochinita pibil while promoting a more balanced and nutritious diet. Remember, moderation is key, and traditional recipes can often be adapted to suit individual health needs and preferences.

Editor's Thoughts on This Cochinita Pibil Recipe

This recipe for cochinita pibil is a delightful fusion of simplicity and authenticity. The use of achiote paste, combined with the citrusy notes of orange and lime juice, creates a vibrant marinade that infuses the pork with rich, tangy flavors. Cooking in a pressure cooker or slow cooker ensures tender, juicy meat that shreds effortlessly. The suggested toppings like pickled red onions, fresh cilantro, and cotija cheese add layers of texture and freshness. This dish is perfect for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing meal that captures the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine with minimal effort.

Enhance Your Easy Cochinita Pibil (Mexican Pulled Pork) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Mexican Street Corn Salad: Elevate your Cochinita Pibil experience with a vibrant corn salad. Think charred kernels tossed with creamy mayo, a sprinkle of cotija cheese, and a dash of chili powder. This side dish adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the tender pork perfectly.

Mango Salsa: Mango Salsa: Add a tropical twist to your meal with a refreshing mango salsa. Juicy mangoes, diced red onions, and a hint of jalapeño come together in a symphony of sweet and spicy. This salsa not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the pork.

Black Bean Soup: Black Bean Soup: Warm up your taste buds with a hearty black bean soup. Slow-cooked black beans, infused with garlic, onions, and a touch of cumin, create a comforting bowl of goodness. This soup serves as a perfect counterpart to the savory Cochinita Pibil, adding depth and richness to your meal.

Pineapple Jalapeño Slaw: Pineapple Jalapeño Slaw: Bring a zesty crunch to your plate with a pineapple jalapeño slaw. Crisp cabbage, sweet pineapple, and a kick of jalapeño create a refreshing and tangy side. This slaw adds a delightful contrast to the tender pork, making each bite a burst of flavor.

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal on a sweet note with crispy churros dipped in rich chocolate sauce. These golden, cinnamon-sugar-coated delights offer a perfect balance of crunch and sweetness. The warm, gooey chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch, making it an irresistible dessert to complement your Cochinita Pibil feast.

Similar Recipes to Cochinita Pibil

Tacos Al Pastor: Transport your taste buds to the streets of Mexico with these succulent pork tacos. Marinated in a blend of pineapple juice, achiote paste, and a medley of spices, then grilled to perfection. Serve with warm corn tortillas, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Carnitas: Indulge in the crispy, tender goodness of carnitas. Slow-cooked pork shoulder is seasoned with orange and lime juices, garlic, and spices, then finished in the oven for that perfect golden crust. Serve with tortillas, guacamole, and pickled onions.

Barbacoa: Dive into the rich, smoky flavors of barbacoa. This slow-cooked beef dish is infused with chipotle peppers, garlic, and a blend of spices. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro and onions.

Chicken Tinga: Savor the spicy, smoky taste of chicken tinga. Shredded chicken is simmered in a rich tomato and chipotle sauce, creating a flavorful filling for tacos, tostadas, or enchiladas. Top with avocado and queso fresco.

Birria Tacos: Experience the bold, savory flavors of birria tacos. Slow-cooked beef or goat is marinated in a blend of chilies, spices, and vinegar. Serve with corn tortillas, consommé for dipping, and a sprinkle of fresh onions and cilantro.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Cochinita Pibil

Appetizers:

Stuffed Jalapeños: Kick off your meal with a burst of flavor by preparing Stuffed Jalapeños. These spicy delights are filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese and shredded cheddar, then wrapped in crispy bacon. The combination of the smoky bacon, the heat from the jalapeños, and the rich, melty cheese makes for an irresistible appetizer. Serve them with a side of ranch dressing or sour cream to balance out the spice.

Mini Tostadas: Create a vibrant start to your meal with Mini Tostadas. These bite-sized treats feature crispy tostada shells topped with a layer of refried beans, followed by a generous portion of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and crumbled cotija cheese. Drizzle with salsa verde and a dollop of guacamole for a fresh and zesty flavor. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to elevate the dish.

Desserts:

Churros: Churros are a delightful way to end your meal. These crispy, golden pastries are perfect when paired with a rich chocolate dipping sauce. The cinnamon-sugar coating adds a sweet and spicy touch that complements the cochinita pibil perfectly. Serve them warm and watch your guests' faces light up with joy.

Tres Leches Cake: Tres Leches Cake is a moist, decadent dessert that will leave your guests craving more. This sponge cake is soaked in a blend of three milks, giving it a rich and creamy texture. Top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor. It's the perfect way to round off a meal of cochinita pibil.

Why trust this Easy Cochinita Pibil (Mexican Pulled Pork) Recipe:

This cochinita pibil recipe is a must-try for its authentic flavors and simplicity. The combination of achiote paste, orange juice, and lime juice creates a rich, tangy marinade that perfectly complements the tender pork shoulder. Using a pressure cooker or slow cooker ensures the meat is juicy and flavorful. Serve it with pickled red onions, fresh cilantro, and corn tortillas for a traditional Mexican experience. This recipe has been tested and loved by many, making it a reliable choice for your next meal.

Want to share your experience making this Easy Cochinita Pibil (Mexican Pulled Pork) Recipe or have any tips to enhance the flavors? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum section!

FAQ:

How long should I cook the pork in a pressure cooker or slow cooker?

If you're using a pressure cooker, cook the pork on high pressure for about 60-70 minutes, then let it naturally release for 15 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure. For a slow cooker, set it on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours until the pork is tender and easily shreddable.

Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?

Yes, you can! While pork shoulder or pork loin is recommended, you can also use pork butt or even pork belly if you prefer. Just make sure the cut has enough fat to keep the meat juicy and flavorful.

How do I make pickled red onions?

It's super easy! Thinly slice a red onion and place it in a jar. In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of vinegar (white or apple cider), 1 cup of water, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt until the sugar and salt dissolve. Pour the hot mixture over the onions, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cochinita pibil actually tastes even better the next day. You can cook the pork, shred it, and store it in the fridge with its juices for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

What can I serve with cochinita pibil besides the suggested toppings?

You can get creative with the sides! Some great options include Mexican rice, black beans, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it over a bed of lettuce for a lighter option or use it as a filling for tamales or empanadas.