Tacos al Pastor: The Perfect Mexican Street Food

Tacos al Pastor: The Perfect Mexican Street Food

Tacos al Pastor is a classic Mexican street food that is loved by people all over the world. The dish is made with marinated pork that is cooked on a spit and topped with juicy pineapple, chopped onion, and coriander. The combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors makes this dish irresistible.

The name “al pastor” means “in the style of the shepherd” and refers to the Lebanese immigrants who brought the technique of cooking meat on a spit to Mexico. Over time, the dish evolved to include local ingredients such as pineapple and chili peppers.

If you have ever been to Mexico, you have probably seen the iconic trompo, a vertical spit with layers of marinated pork that is cooked and shaved off to order. While it may be difficult to recreate the trompo at home, this recipe will show you how to make delicious and authentic Tacos al Pastor that will transport you to the streets of Mexico.

Ingredients

• 1 kilogram pork shoulder, sliced
• 1 pineapple, peeled and sliced
• 1 white onion, chopped
• 1/2 bunch of coriander, chopped
• 1/2 cup of pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup of white vinegar
• 3 guajillo chilies, seeded and soaked
• 3 ancho chilies, seeded and soaked
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp of dried oregano
• 1 tbsp of cumin
• 1 tbsp of salt
• 1 tbsp of vegetable oil
• 16 corn tortillas

Instructions

1. Mix the pineapple juice, white vinegar, guajillo chilies, ancho chilies, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and vegetable oil in a blender to make the marinade. Reserve 1/3 of the marinade for later. Combine the pork shoulder with the marinade in a bowl and mix well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight.

2. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the pineapple slices on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and chop the pineapple into small pieces.

3. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat. Add the marinated pork and cook for 5-7 minutes until crispy and browned. Lower the heat to medium and add the reserved 1/3 of the marinade to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pork is coated in a thick and sticky sauce.

4. To assemble the tacos, heat the corn tortillas on a griddle or skillet until warm and pliable. Place a spoonful of the pork onto each tortilla, top with chopped onion, coriander, and roasted pineapple. Serve immediately.

Variations

• Vegetarian Tacos al Pastor: Instead of pork, use tofu or seitan that has been marinated in the same marinade as the pork. Cook the tofu or seitan on a griddle until crispy and browned. Top with the same toppings as the pork tacos.
• Vegan Tacos al Pastor: Use the same marinade as the original recipe, but omit the pork and use tofu or seitan instead. Top with chopped onion, coriander, and roasted pineapple.
• Chicken Tacos al Pastor: Substitute the pork with boneless, skinless chicken thighs that have been marinated in the same marinade. Cook the chicken on a griddle until browned and cooked through. Top with the same toppings as the pork tacos.

Tacos al Pastor is the perfect Mexican street food that you can easily make at home. The combination of juicy pork, sweet pineapple, and spicy marinade will make your taste buds dance. Try this recipe today and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!

FAQ

What is Tacos al Pastor?

Tacos al Pastor is a popular Mexican dish made with marinated pork that is cooked on a vertical rotisserie, similar to a shawarma or gyro. The pork is thinly sliced and served on corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro.

What kind of meat is used for Tacos al Pastor?

Traditionally, Tacos al Pastor is made with pork that has been marinated in a mixture of dried chilies, spices, and pineapple juice. However, you can also use chicken or beef as a substitute.

Can I make Tacos al Pastor without a vertical rotisserie?

Yes, you can still make Tacos al Pastor without a vertical rotisserie. You can cook the marinated pork in a slow cooker or oven, or even on a grill. Just make sure to slice the meat thinly before serving.

What is the best type of tortilla to use for Tacos al Pastor?

Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for Tacos al Pastor, but you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer. Just make sure to warm them up before serving.

What toppings are typically used for Tacos al Pastor?

The most common toppings for Tacos al Pastor are diced pineapple, chopped onion, and fresh cilantro. You can also add salsa, guacamole, or shredded cheese if you like.

Can I make Tacos al Pastor ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the pork and prepare the toppings ahead of time, but it is best to cook the meat just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

How spicy is Tacos al Pastor?

The level of spiciness in Tacos al Pastor can vary depending on the type and amount of chilies used in the marinade. If you are sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of chilies or use a milder variety.

Can I make Tacos al Pastor vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version of Tacos al Pastor by using marinated tofu or seitan instead of meat, and omitting the cheese or using a vegan cheese substitute.

What side dishes go well with Tacos al Pastor?

Some traditional side dishes that pair well with Tacos al Pastor are Mexican-style rice, beans, and guacamole. You can also serve chips and salsa or a simple green salad.

How can I store leftover Tacos al Pastor?

Store any leftover Tacos al Pastor in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the meat in a skillet or in the microwave before serving.