Tacos Al Pastor Recipe (with Video)

Tacos Al Pastor Recipe: Tacos Al Pastor is one of the most beloved Mexican street foods, known for its juicy, marinated pork, caramelized pineapple, and bold, smoky flavors. Originating from Lebanese immigrants who brought shawarma-style cooking to Mexico, this dish combines Middle Eastern spices with indigenous Mexican ingredients, creating a one-of-a-kind taste.

Making Tacos Al Pastor at home might seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and techniques, you can achieve that authentic, mouthwatering flavor. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe!

Ingredients for Tacos Al Pastor

To create the best Tacos Al Pastor, you’ll need a combination of spices, chilies, and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Meat and Marinade Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork shoulder (thinly sliced)
• 3 dried guajillo chilies (seeded and rehydrated)
• 2 dried ancho chilies (seeded and rehydrated)
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 small white onion (chopped)
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup fresh pineapple juice
• 2 tbsp achiote paste
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Taco Toppings and Garnishes:

• 1 cup fresh pineapple slices
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup diced white onion
• 2 limes, cut into wedges
• Corn tortillas

Essential Kitchen Tools:

• Blender or food processor
• Grill, skillet, or oven
• Sharp knife
• Large mixing bowl

Preparing the Marinade

The marinade is what gives Tacos Al Pastor its deep, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor. Here’s how to make it:

1. Prepare the dried chilies: Remove seeds and soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes until soft.
2. Blend the marinade: In a blender, combine the rehydrated chilies, garlic, onion, vinegar, orange juice, pineapple juice, achiote paste, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Adjust consistency: If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of water or oil.
4. Taste and adjust: Add more salt or spice if needed.

Marinating the Pork

Now that the marinade is ready, it’s time to coat the pork.

1. Coat the pork slices thoroughly with the marinade in a large bowl.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
3. If using skewers, layer the marinated pork tightly for better cooking results.

Cooking the Pork

Traditionally, Tacos Al Pastor is cooked on a vertical spit called a trompo, but at home, you have several options:

Grill Method:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the marinated pork slices for about 4-5 minutes per side until slightly charred.
3. Slice thinly and set aside.

Skillet or Pan Method:

1. Heat a large pan over medium heat with a little oil.
2. Cook the pork in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until slightly crispy.

Oven Method:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer marinated pork slices on a lined baking sheet.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.

Preparing the Pineapple and Other Toppings

Pineapple is a key ingredient in Tacos Al Pastor, adding a caramelized sweetness that balances the smoky pork.

1. Slice fresh pineapple into rings or chunks.
2. Grill or pan-fry the slices for 2 minutes per side until lightly charred.
3. Dice into small pieces to sprinkle on tacos.

Other toppings include chopped cilantro, diced onion, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Assembling the Tacos

1. Heat the tortillas on a dry skillet or directly over an open flame.
2. Layer the sliced pork onto each tortilla.
3. Top with grilled pineapple, cilantro, and onion.
4. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Mexican rice, refried beans, or grilled vegetables.
• Best Drinks: Horchata, tamarind agua fresca, or a classic margarita.

Expert Tips for Authentic Flavor

• Use pork shoulder for the juiciest results.
• Don’t skip the achiote paste—it’s essential for color and flavor.
• For a smoky flavor, add a touch of mesquite liquid smoke.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQs about Tacos Al Pastor Recipe

What are Tacos Al Pastor?

Tacos Al Pastor is a popular Mexican dish featuring thinly sliced pork that is marinated in a blend of spices and chilies, then cooked on a vertical rotisserie. This cooking style was influenced by Lebanese immigrants in Mexico, similar to shawarma. The pork is typically served on small tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro.

What ingredients do I need for Tacos Al Pastor?

To make Tacos Al Pastor, you’ll need pork shoulder, dried guajillo chilies, achiote paste, garlic, onion, pineapple (fresh or canned), oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. You’ll also need corn tortillas, fresh cilantro, and chopped onions for serving.

How do I cook the pork if I don’t have a vertical rotisserie?

If you don’t have access to a vertical rotisserie, you can still make Tacos Al Pastor by marinating the pork and then cooking it in a grill or oven. For grilling, place the marinated pork on skewers over medium heat. In an oven, roast the marinated pork at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until it is fully cooked and slightly caramelized.

Can Tacos Al Pastor be made vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Tacos Al Pastor by substituting the pork with mushrooms or jackfruit. These alternatives mimic the texture of meat and absorb the marinade well, making them a delicious alternative for vegetarians.

What side dishes go well with Tacos Al Pastor?

Popular side dishes that complement Tacos Al Pastor include Mexican rice, refried beans, and a fresh salsa or guacamole. These sides add variety and additional flavor to your taco meal.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover Tacos Al Pastor can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the pork in a pan over medium heat or in a microwave before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Tacos Al Pastor!