| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 1 hour 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 367 | 17g | 5g | 7g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 48g | 0.83g |
There are few dishes I adore more than a well-crafted serving of the Yucatan-Style Grilled Pork with Annatto. It’s a vibrant fusion of uniquely Mexican flavors, providing a delightful change of pace from my usual Southern culinary repertoire. Yet, it’s the harmony between the traditional pork, enriched with savory spices, and the refreshing citrus elements that make this recipe a winner in my book. Here is a closer look at why this dish is genuinely remarkable.
A Flavorful Tour De Force
One bonus of being a food enthusiast is the chance to explore unique and exotic tastes, and this Yucatan-inspired recipe truly delivers. The succulent pork loin marinated in tangy orange and lime juice, the aromatic annatto seeds, and the blend of distinctive spices all contribute to its unique flair. But wait, there is more! The grilling process provides a smoky undertone that wraps up the sensory fiesta.
Health Benefits Galore
Another reason to love this recipe is its commendable health profile. Pork loin is a lean meat that serves as an excellent source of high-quality protein, and the beneficial monounsaturated fats in the recipe come from vegetable oil. Plus, the host of spices not only season the dish but also have health benefits in their own right. For instance, oregano acts as a powerful antioxidant while cumin aids in digestion.
What’s more, this Yucatan-Style Grilled Pork with Annatto is akin to various familiar dishes, such as traditional roasted pork or marinated grilled chicken. Its vibrant flavor could brighten up any spread – complement it with a fresh/rich salad, or perhaps, serve alongside a helping of my favorite Southern-style grits for a unique fusion meal.
So, if you’re a food adventurist like me, who delights in the discovery of something refreshing and different, yet wholly satisfying, give this Yucatan-style specialty a whirl. The mouthwatering combination of citrus, spice, and grilling perfection is sure to inspire a love story of your own.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of pork loin
- 1/2 cup of orange juice
- 1/4 cup of lime juice
- 1/4 cup of annatto seeds
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 2 teaspoons of kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 4 cloves
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water)
Method
Step One
Firstly, mix the orange juice and lime juice together in a bowl.
Step Two
In a dry pan, toast the annatto seeds, garlic cloves, black peppercorns, cumin seeds, dried oregano, and cloves over medium heat until they are fragrant. This should take around 2 minutes.
Step Three
Once they’re fragrant, transfer them to a blender and add in the kosher salt and cinnamon. Blend this mixture until it forms a smooth paste.
Step Four
Incorporate the juice mixture and the vegetable oil into the blender gradually while it’s running until the mixture emulsifies.
Step Five
Place the mixture in an appropriate bowl and add the pork into it. Make sure to coat it fully with the paste. Then, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to marinate.
Step Six
When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated pork onto the soaked wooden skewers and grill them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
Step Seven
Rest the grilled pork for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices. Enjoy your Yucatan-Style Grilled Pork with Annatto seeds!
