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How to make Tacos al Pastor Recipe

Tacos al Pastor Recipe

Before diving into the delicious world of tacos al pastor, let me set the scene. Picture this: a summer evening, warm with a delightful breeze.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 5
Calories 369 kcal

Equipment

  • A large blender
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Pork & Pineapple

  • 4 fresh pineapple spears: Perfect for layering or grilling.
  • 3 lb boneless pork shoulder: Slice these into broad thin sheets.

Marinade

  • Combine the following ingredients for a robust flavor profile.
  • 1 tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce: This adds a rich smoky undertone.
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the acidity with mild sweetness.
  • 2 packets Sazon Goya or 1 tablespoon ground achiote powder: For that authentic color and flavor.
  • 6 dried guajillo chiles: Stemmed and seeded.
  • 1 dried chile de árbol: Brings smoky heat.
  • ¼ cup fresh pineapple juice or orange juice: Adds brightness.
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar: For tanginess.
  • 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano: A staple herb in Mexican cooking.
  • 5 garlic cloves: Peeled.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves and allspice powder: For warmth.
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin: This spice gives depth.
  • ¼ teaspoon powdered ginger: An unexpected kick.
  • 10 whole black peppercorns: Adds a bite.
  • ¼ of a medium white onion: For sweetness.
  • teaspoons kosher salt: To season and enhance flavors.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

  • In a blender, combine the chipotle in adobo, brown sugar, Sazon Goya, guajillo chiles, chile de árbol, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, oregano, garlic, cloves, allspice, cumin, ginger, peppercorns, onion, and salt. Blend until smooth. The scent is incredible.

Step 2: Marinate the Pork

  • Place your sliced pork shoulder into a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring every surface is covered. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but if you can swing it, try overnight. This will really amp up the flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Pineapple

  • While the pork is marinating, preheat your grill. Once hot, grill the pineapple spears until they get beautiful grill marks and a little caramelization, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Set them aside to cool, then slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Cook the Pork

  • Once marinated, heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil to the pan. Cook the pork for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until nicely charred and cooked through. The sweet and smoky aroma will be hard to resist.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

  • Warm the corn tortillas on the grill or in a pan. Fill each tortilla with the sliced pork, add pieces of grilled pineapple, and top with chopped onions and fresh cilantro. A squeeze of lime adds the final touch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  • Place your tacos on a platter and serve with your favorite sides, like creamy guacamole and fresh pico de gallo.

Notes

  • Quality Meat Matters: Choose a well-marbled pork shoulder for the best results. The fat will keep the meat juicy.
  • Don’t Rush the Marinade: Allowing the pork to marinate longer draws out more flavor, so don't skip this step.
  • Mind the Grill Temperature: Medium-high heat is key. Too hot, and you risk burning; too cool, and the meat will cook unevenly.
  • Warm the Tortillas: A quick warm-up gives tortillas flexibility and prevents tearing.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Get creative! Try crumbled queso fresco, fresh avocado slices, or even pickled red onion for added zest.

Nutrition

Serving: 334gCalories: 369kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 47gFat: 14.8gSaturated Fat: 5.2gCholesterol: 136mgSodium: 3790mgFiber: 1gSugar: 11g
Keyword Tacos al Pastor Recipe
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