What To Know
- Heat the corn tortillas in a skillet or on a griddle until they are warm and pliable.
- If you don’t have a vertical spit, you can cook the pork in a Dutch oven or a large skillet.
- The citrus flavors in the marinade complement the hops in the beer, while the lime juice in the margarita balances the richness of the pork.
Tacos al pastor, a beloved Mexican delicacy, tantalizes taste buds with its vibrant flavors and tender, juicy meat. This culinary masterpiece is a symphony of spices, pineapple, and succulent pork, marinated to perfection and cooked on a vertical spit. While the process may seem daunting, this comprehensive guide will empower you to create authentic tacos al pastor in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Marinade:
- 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup achiote paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1/2 pineapple, cut into thin slices
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- Cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, pineapple juice, vinegar, soy sauce, achiote paste, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the pork cubes to the marinade and stir to coat them evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
Cook the Pork:
1. Remove the pork from the marinade and discard the marinade.
2. Thread the pork cubes onto a vertical spit or a large skewer.
3. Place the spit in a preheated oven or on a grill over medium heat.
4. Cook the pork for 1-2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Assemble the Tacos:
1. Heat the corn tortillas in a skillet or on a griddle until they are warm and pliable.
2. Place a few slices of pineapple and onion on each tortilla.
3. Slice the cooked pork thinly and place it on top of the pineapple and onion.
4. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges for squeezing.
Tips for Success
- Use a sharp knife to cut the pork into even cubes for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overcook the pork, as it will become dry and tough.
- If you don’t have a vertical spit, you can cook the pork in a Dutch oven or a large skillet.
- For a smoky flavor, grill the pork over charcoal or wood chips.
- Serve the tacos with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Variations
- Tacos al Pastor with Roasted Pineapple: Roast the pineapple slices before adding them to the tacos for a caramelized sweetness.
- Tacos al Pastor with Guajillo Chile: Add guajillo chile powder to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Tacos al Pastor with Habanero Salsa: Serve the tacos with a spicy habanero salsa for an extra burst of heat.
The Perfect Pairing
Tacos al pastor pair perfectly with a cold Mexican beer or a refreshing margarita. The citrus flavors in the marinade complement the hops in the beer, while the lime juice in the margarita balances the richness of the pork.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use pork loin instead of pork shoulder?
A: Yes, you can use pork loin for a leaner option, but it may be slightly less flavorful.
Q: How long can I marinate the pork?
A: The pork can be marinated for up to 24 hours. Longer marinating times will result in more flavorful pork.
Q: What is achiote paste?
A: Achiote paste is a condiment made from the seeds of the achiote tree. It has a deep red color and a slightly earthy flavor.
Q: Can I make tacos al pastor in advance?
A: Yes, you can make the pork up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the tacos.
Q: How do I reheat tacos al pastor?
A: You can reheat the tacos in the oven or in a skillet. Be sure to heat them through before serving.
