Experience the authentic flavors of Mexico with our Sizzling Al Pastor Pork Tacos! This iconic dish features succulent pork marinated in a traditional Al Pastor blend of chilies, spices, and pineapple, creating a perfect harmony of sweet and spicy. Served on warm corn tortillas and topped with fresh garnishes, these tacos are a celebration of rich, vibrant flavors, ideal for anyone who loves the depth and complexity of Mexican cuisine.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Prep time (including marination): 4 hours
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Serves: 6
- Serving size: 2 tacos per person
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fiber: 3g
Ingredients
- Pork shoulder, thinly sliced: 1 kg (2.2 lbs)
- Guajillo chilies: 5
- Achiote paste: 30g (1 oz)
- Pineapple juice: 120ml (4 fl oz)
- Garlic cloves: 3
- White vinegar: 30ml (1 fl oz)
- Ground cumin: 5g (0.18 oz)
- Dried oregano: 5g (0.18 oz)
- Corn tortillas: 12
- Fresh pineapple, diced: 1 cup (about 165g or 5.8 oz)
- Red onion, finely chopped: 1 medium
- Fresh cilantro, chopped: for garnish
- Lime wedges: for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Prepare Marinade: Soak guajillo chilies in hot water until soft. Blend chilies, achiote paste, pineapple juice, garlic, vinegar, cumin, and oregano into a smooth paste. Season with salt.
- Marinate Pork: Coat the pork slices in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
- Cook Pork: Grill or pan-fry the pork over high heat until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Assemble Tacos: Warm tortillas, then fill with slices of cooked pork, diced pineapple, and chopped red onion.
- Garnish: Top with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
- Serve: Enjoy these flavor-packed tacos fresh and hot.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Slice the pork as thinly as possible for quick cooking.
- Allow the pork to marinate for as long as possible for deeper flavor.
- Grill the pork for an authentic charred flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, chicken can be a good substitute.
How spicy are these tacos?
They have a mild to medium spice level, but you can adjust to your taste.
Can I prepare the pork in advance?
Yes, the pork can be marinated overnight.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, when using corn tortillas, this dish is gluten-free.