Cochinita Pibil Nachos Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. pork shoulder, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tbsp. achiote paste
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1 bag of tortilla chips
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced fresh cilantro
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 jalapeno, sliced

Special equipment needed:
- Slow cooker

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together orange juice, lime juice, white vinegar, achiote paste, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and pour the marinade over it. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the pork is tender.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
4. Spread the tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Top the chips with the cooked pork, shredded cheese, and diced red onion.
6. Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and top with diced cilantro, avocado, and jalapeno slices.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 8 hours (slow cooker) + 5-7 minutes (oven)
Temperature:
- Slow cooker: low heat
- Oven: 350°F
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 450
- Fat: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 21g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork shoulder can be substituted with chicken or beef.
- Achiote paste can be substituted with paprika or chili powder.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with Monterey Jack or queso fresco.

Variations:
- Add black beans or corn to the nachos for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve with a side of guacamole or salsa for dipping.
- Use the cooked pork to make tacos or burritos.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to marinate the pork for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Shred the pork with two forks for a more tender texture.
- Use a cast-iron skillet to cook the nachos for a crispy bottom layer.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the pork in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the nachos on a large platter for a fun and festive presentation.

Garnishes:
- Garnish with extra cilantro, avocado, and jalapeno slices.

Pairings:
- Serve with a cold beer or margarita for the perfect pairing.

Suggested side dishes:
- Mexican rice or a side salad would be great accompaniments to this dish.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pork is tough, cook it for a longer time in the slow cooker until it is tender.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the pork to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
- Cochinita Pibil is a traditional Mexican dish from the Yucatan region, typically made with pork marinated in achiote paste and citrus juices.

Flavor profiles:
- This dish is tangy, spicy, and savory all at once, with a hint of sweetness from the orange juice.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the nachos as a main dish for a casual dinner or as an appetizer for a party.

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Region: Mexican

Taste: Spicy, Tangy, Savory, Citrusy, Aromatic