Description
Al Pastor Tacos are a vibrant Mexican street food classic featuring tender, marinated pork shoulder grilled to perfection. Infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple, achiote paste, and citrus juices, these tacos are assembled with fresh diced pineapple, chopped onion, and cilantro, served on warm corn tortillas with lime wedges for an authentic taste sensation.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade and Pork
- 1 pound pork shoulder, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons achiote paste
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings and Serving
- 1 small pineapple, peeled and diced
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together achiote paste, pineapple juice, orange juice, white vinegar, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Marinate the Pork: Add the thinly sliced pork shoulder to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Cook the Pork: Preheat a skillet or grill to medium-high heat. Cook the marinated pork slices for 3 to 5 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and slightly charred, developing a smoky exterior and tender interior.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or in the oven until soft and pliable, ready to hold the fillings.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place the cooked pork slices onto warm tortillas. Top with diced pineapple, chopped onion, and fresh cilantro to add a burst of sweetness and freshness.
- Serve: Serve the tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side to squeeze over for added zest and brightness.
Notes
- For enhanced smoky flavor, grill the pork on a charcoal grill instead of a skillet.
- Add sliced radishes or avocado as additional toppings for variety and texture.
- To recreate authentic al pastor, stack pork slices on a vertical spit and cook slowly to replicate the traditional method.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
