TACOS AL PASTOR
Tacos Al Pastor is one of Mexico’s most beloved street foods known for its rich, smoky and slightly sweet flavour. This dish consists of thinly sliced pork marinated in adobo sauce, then cooked to perfection and served in a warm corn tortilla. The combination of tender meat, tangy pineapple and a hint of lime creates a perfect balance of savoury, spicy and sweet flavours. Traditionally, Tacos al Pastor is cooked on a vertical spit, similar to shawarma. Still, this easy-to-make version allows you to enjoy the same authentic taste using a simple stovetop method. Whether served for a casual dinner, a backyard gathering or a festive celebration like Cinco de Mayo, this taco is a must-try for any fan of Mexican cuisine. Enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal with fresh salsa, cilantro and onions.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Main Course, Tacos & Wraps
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mexican
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Sauté, Pan-Fry
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Cinco de Mayo, Backyard BBQ, Family Gathering, Casual Dinner, Super Bowl
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
High Protein, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Quick & Easy
DISH TYPE
Tacos & Wraps
INGREDIENTS
Here is a list of ingredients for Tacos Al Pastor:
- ¼ Cup Pork
- ½ Teaspoon Adobo Sauce
- 1 Small Corn Tortilla
- 1 Tablespoon Diced Pineapple
- ½ Teaspoon Lime Juice
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fats: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Cholesterol: 30mg
PREPARATION
- Marinate The Pork: In a small bowl, coat the sliced pork with adobo sauce and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Heat The Pan: Warm a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook The Pork: Add the marinated pork to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes until fully cooked and slightly caramelised.
- Warm The Tortilla: Heat the tortilla for 20-30 seconds on each side in another dry pan.
- Assemble The Taco: Place the cooked pork onto the warmed tortilla.
- Add Pineapple And Lime: Sprinkle diced pineapple over the pork and drizzle with lime juice.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy as it is or add your favourite toppings like onions, cilantro or salsa.
PREP TIME
5 Minutes
COOKING TIME
5 Minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Tacos Al Pastor:
- Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple enhances the flavour with its natural sweetness.
- Let The Pork Rest: Allow the meat to marinate longer for deeper flavour.
- Caramelise The Pineapple: Sauté the pineapple for a smoky and caramelised taste.
- Warm The Tortilla Properly: Heat the tortilla and prevent it from breaking.
- Add Spice: Serve with jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
VARIATIONS
- Chicken Al Pastor: Substitute pork with thinly sliced chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Al Pastor: Use marinated jackfruit or tofu in place of pork.
- Extra Smoky Flavour: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the adobo sauce.
- Cheesy Tacos: Top with crumbled cotija cheese for extra richness.
- Grilled Version: Cook the pork on a grill for added charred flavour.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store cooked pork in an airtight container for 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze marinated pork for up to 2 months and thaw before cooking.
- Reheating: Warm briefly in a skillet over medium heat or microwave before serving.