Recipes from the Yucatan

This November in Cancun, the 4th annual Mexican Carribean Food Festival, or the "Festival Gastronómico del Caribe Mexicano," will be held much to the delight of culinary gurus everywhere. The finest restaurants in and around Cancun will feature culinary styles from native Mexican to flavors from abroad. Authentic Yucatan flavors are always delicious although they sometimes seem unusual. Try this native Yucatan recipe for Pibil Pollo, which is chicken marinated in bitter oranges and steamed in banana leaves. Or try this Yucatan specialty Sapotes Dulces using fruit similar to a persimmon, for dessert. The sapotes are mixed with orange juice, sugar and rum and then served chilled. It is simple to make and has a stunning flavor. Even though some of the ingredients may seem unusual, they are actually quite easy to find. Shop online or check out your local Hispanic market. For a different take on this recipe, use turkey and serve it as part of your Thanksgiving menu.