FOR TRADITIONAL BARBECUE, CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD, & GRILLED DISHES
When people see a rub, paste, or marinade with brick-red achiote, it’s often incorrectly assumed that the seasoning is laced with red chile. In this blend, however, there really is some of the hot stuff. While Aliño has South American roots, this one is Mexican in essence. If you are using it for grilling, like on a pork tenderloin, be sure to keep the fire’s temperature in the medium heat range. We use this more commonly for something bigger, such as a slower and-lower-cooked pork shoulder, especially one prepared in Yucatan’s signature banana-leaf wrapped style, known as cochinita pibil. Pair the meat with a fruity sauce at the table, such as Grilled Pineapple, Chile, and Almond Pico de Gallo.
Yucatan Rojito is a vibrant and flavorful seasoning blend inspired by the traditional flavors of the Yucatan region in Mexico. This delightful rub is made with a combination of achiote paste, ground dried pasilla or ancho chile, freshly grated orange zest, granulated garlic or garlic powder, ground mace or nutmeg, and kosher salt or coarse sea salt. The result is a unique and aromatic blend that perfectly complements various cuts of pork.
The star ingredient in Yucatan Rojito is the achiote paste, which is a distinctive and traditional Mexican seasoning made from annatto seeds and various spices. It imparts a rich red color and a slightly tangy, earthy flavor to the rub. Combined with the smoky notes of ground dried pasilla or ancho chile, the citrusy brightness of orange zest, and the warm and savory elements of granulated garlic, ground mace, and kosher salt, this blend creates a harmony of tastes that elevate the taste of pork to new heights.
To use Yucatan Rojito, generously rub the mixture on pork cuts, ensuring even coverage, and then massage it well into the meat. Allowing the seasoned meat to rest before cooking allows the flavors to penetrate, resulting in a succulent and deeply flavored pork dish.
The vibrant colors and aromatic scents of Yucatan Rojito make it a visual and sensory delight. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or slow-cooking your pork, this versatile rub is sure to enhance the taste and presentation of your dishes, making them a true feast for the senses.
Bring the authentic flavors of the Yucatan region to your kitchen with Yucatan Rojito, and savor the delicious taste of Mexican-inspired cuisine. Share the joy of this delightful seasoning blend with friends and family, and let it transport your taste buds on a culinary journey to the heart of Mexico. Enjoy the bold and unforgettable taste experience that Yucatan Rojito brings to every pork dish, turning your meals into a fiesta of flavors.
MAKES: ABOUT 1 CUP
INGREDIENTS:
- 3.5-ounce package achiote paste
- 2 tablespoons ground dried pasilla or ancho chile
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest
- 2 teaspoons granulated garlic or 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons ground mace or 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt or coarse sea salt
INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a food processor, combine all of the ingredients until they are evenly blended, creating a flavorful and aromatic achiote paste rub. Use the mixture immediately, or transfer it to a covered container and refrigerate for up to several weeks, ensuring that you have a delightful seasoning on hand whenever needed.
- Generously rub the achiote paste mixture on pork cuts, ensuring even coverage, and then massage it well into the meat. Allowing the seasoned meat to rest before cooking enhances the flavors and ensures that the pork is infused with the rich taste of the achiote paste.
