"Abuelita Theology" A Heritage of Faith

As we continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage month, we celebrate the matriarchs of our communities. These “abuelas,” “tias,” and “madres” not only keep the heart of the home, but historically they are the ones who also participate in passing down the families’ strong heritage of faith. They teach their children how God has been faithful to their family and how He continues to provide for them. They take the commandment in Deuteronomy seriously, and they teach their children their history and the ways for the Lord. This tradition has now been lovingly coined as “Abuelita Theology.” It is the matriarchs who often teach us to pray and to trust in the Lord.

And of course, nothing soothes the heart and the soul like Abuelita making you your favorite dish while listening to her stories. As you enjoy this new recipe, we invite you to reflect on the gift of our matriarchs in our faith community. We honor their courage, steadfastness, and unshakable faith in the Lord.

Ingredients:

Pork Meat: 6 lbs

Achiote Seasoning (or paste): 1 bar
Banana leaves: 1 pack
Vinegar or Bitter Orange (grapefruit): Goya Brand recommended - 1 Cup
Pepper - 2 tablespoons
Cinnamon - ¼ teaspoon
Oregano - ¼ teaspoon
Garlic - 6 cloves
Red Onion - medium size
Habanero Pepper - 8 pieces
Tortillas

Instructions:

Clean the meat and slice into small pieces.
Dice the onion and the garlic (finely chopped)
Mix the vinegar or orange juice, the Achiote seasoning/paste, pepper, oregano, cinnamon, onion, and garlic. Marinate the pork
On a tall pan place the banana leaf on the bottom of the pan to cover the whole bottom.
Place the marinated pork in the center of the pan. Cover the pan and cook at low heat for 3 hours.
When the pork is almost ready, toast the habanero peppers for a few minutes. Blend with a little bit of water to make hot sauce.
Put together with tortillas, serve like a taco, or roll like an enchilada.
Fine dice a red onion for garnish

Thank you, Abuelita Laura. Enjoy, BJM familia! 🧡