Authentic Tacos al Pastor

Authentic Tacos al Pastor

Tacos al Pastor, a cherished staple of Mexican street food, brings together a symphony of flavors in each bite. Tender pork shoulder marinated in traditional spices and tangy pineapple juice, then grilled to perfection, provides the star attraction of this dish. The smoky meat, sweetness from pineapple, and the fresh burst of cilantro and onion create an unforgettable experience. This recipe takes you on a culinary journey to the heart of Mexico, right from your kitchen!

Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Lime wedges (1 lime)
  • Onion (1, finely chopped)
  • Cilantro (1/2 cup, chopped)
  • Pineapple slices (1 cup)
  • Corn tortillas (8)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Oregano (1 teaspoon)
  • Cumin (1 teaspoon)
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
  • White vinegar (1/4 cup)
  • Pineapple juice (1 cup)
  • Achiote paste (2 tablespoons)
  • Pork shoulder (1.5 pounds, thinly sliced)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the achiote paste, pineapple juice, white vinegar, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. Add the thinly sliced pork shoulder to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor development.
  3. Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Cook the marinated pork slices for about 5-7 minutes per side, until they are cooked through and slightly charred. The charring will add a smoky flavor to the tacos.
  5. In a dry skillet or on the grill, quickly warm the corn tortillas until they are soft and pliable, a few seconds per side.
  6. To assemble the tacos, place a generous amount of cooked pork on each tortilla.
  7. Top the pork with pineapple slices, chopped cilantro, and diced onion, adjusting to your preference.
  8. Serve your Tacos al Pastor with lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their tacos. The lime juice will brighten the flavors and add a refreshing tang.
  9. Enjoy your homemade, delicious Tacos al Pastor!

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 2 hours 30 minutes • Cook Time: 15 minutes • Calories: 530 • Fat: 20g • Carbs: 40g • Protein: 40g • Sodium: 800mg • Sugar: 10g