My Experience: A Fiesta of Flavors
The first time I had tacos al pastor was when I couldn’t get enough of the sweet smoky and tanginess. The story of tradition, transported in every bite, is of a vibrant Mexican street food scene and this dish takes you there. As soon as I had success with it in a food truck attempt, I went home and replicated it, and it became a fan favorite for blowing out dinner parties with friends and family.
What Are Tacos al Pastor?
Tacos al pastor is a traditional Mexican dish inspired by shawarma, brought by Lebanese immigrants. Made with marinated pork, cooked over a vertical spit, sliced thin and served in tortillas with pineapple, onion, and cilantro.
Tacos al Pastor Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
For the Marinade:
Thinly sliced meat of a pork shoulder – 2 lbs.
3 Seeded guajillo chiles, soaked in hot water for 10 minutes; 3 dried guajillo chilies (Soaked in hot water for 10 minutes)
Ancho chiles, dried, seeds soaked, 2
1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup pineapple juice
3 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon oregano (if using Mexican oregano is available, you may use that)
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
For the vibrant color and flavor:
1 tablespoon achiote paste
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
(Be warm and pliable) Small corn tortillas
Fresh or Canned diced pineapple, 1 cup
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
Lime wedges (For serving)
Salsa of choice
Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade:
Place the soaked chiles, orange juice, pineapple juice, garlic, vinegar, cumin, oregano, cloves and achiote paste in a blender and blend until very smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Marinate the Pork:
Marinade the pork slices thoroughly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Cover.
Cook the Pork:
If you have a vertical spit (trompo) layer the marinated pork and cook until tender, slightly charred.
For example, if you prefer, bring the pork to a hot skillet, grill, or cook the pork in a hot skillet over medium-high heat until the edges are caramelized, 4-5 minutes per side.
Assemble the Tacos:
Heat the tortillas on a dry skillet or right over a flame.
Cooked pork is sliced and laid on the tortillas. Cover with diced pineapple, onions and cilantro.
Serve:
Also squeeze of lime and your favorite salsa. Serve immediately.
Best Tacos al Pastor Tips
Use Fresh Ingredients: The flavors are enhanced with fresh pineapple and some herbs.
Achieve the Char: A nice smoky taste calls for pork seared correctly.
Don’t Skimp on the Marinade: It requires marinating overnight, so the flavors sink deep into the meat.
Warm the Tortillas: Their own natural flavor comes out when you warm tortillas, and they’re easier to fold.
Variations to Try
Chicken al Pastor:
Use chicken thighs in place of pork if wanting something a little leaner.
Vegetarian al Pastor:
If you want, use marinated and grilled jackfruit or portobello mushrooms.
Al Pastor Bowls:
Garnish the pork and toppings on top of rice or quinoa for a gluten free alternative.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tacos al pastor are a combination of smoky, sweet and savory. They’re great for Taco Tuesdays, weekend parties or anytime you’ve got a craving for Mexico. The magic of street food in your kitchen with this recipe!
“Has pasta al pastor been on your list before?” What toppings do you love? In the comments!”
IF YOU WANT , YOU CAN VISIT MY Recipe
