Cochinita pibil, Mexican recipe step by step

Cochinita pibil is a traditional preparation from the Yucatan peninsula. To obtain the particular texture of the meat, a trench is dug in the earth, embers, stones and the seasoned pieces of meat are placed and wrapped in banana leaves. They are then covered with soil and cooked in this way for 4 to 6 hours. To obtain a similar result at home, it is baked at medium temperature for a long period. Pork is one of the best proteins for human consumption. It contains 8 of the essential amino acids that the body needs. It also provides us with vitamins of the B complex, which help regulate the production of some hormones. It also offers minerals such as phosphorus, iron, potassium, and zinc. with multiple benefits for the body. Ingredients: Banana leaves (available in Latin products stores) 1 ½ kilos of pork leg ½ kilos of pork tenderloin with rib 200 grams of achiote paste (available in Latin products stores) ½ cup of orange juice , sweet 1 cup white vinegar ½ teaspoon ground cumin ¼ teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon white pepper ½ teaspoon black pepper ½ teaspoon cinnamon 5 whole black peppercorns 2 cloves garlic ½ teaspoon chili pepper in Latin food stores) 1 teaspoon of salt 125 grams of lard, melted 1 red onion 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil ½ jalapeño How to prepare the cochinita pibil: Rub the salt over the pork. Chop it into 5-centimeter pieces. Reserve.Chop the red onion in julienne strips and fry in a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the vinegar and half jalapeño (optional). Cook for 10-15 minutes until the vinegar turns purple. After that time, process in the blender and cook again for 3 more minutes. Reserve. Dissolve with the orange juice and vinegar with the achiote paste. Add the rest of the spices and mix. Add to the chopped pork and marinate for 8 hours. Preheat the oven at 160º for 30 minutes. Prepare the banana leaves by placing them on the stove for three minutes, make a bed on the tray and put the meat, cover with more banana leaves and aluminum foil on top. Bake for two and a half hours. Check if the meat is shredded, which is the cooking term. Add the red onion sauce and cook for 10 more minutes. The cochinita pibil is an ideal dish to share in a celebration. It can be served with potatoes or as a filling for tacos or burritos. A special dish for a great occasion.