Why Make This Recipe
Cinco de Mayo is celebrated to remember the Mexican victory over French forces in 1862. It’s a day of joy filled with music, dance, and delicious food. Making traditional dishes like Tacos al Pastor, Enchiladas Poblanas, and others not only brings the fiesta to your home but also connects you to Mexican culture. These recipes are a great way to share the spirit of Cinco de Mayo with friends and family while enjoying authentic flavors.
How to Make Tacos al Pastor
Ingredients:
- Pork shoulder
- Pineapple
- Garlic
- Chili powder
- Oregano
- Vinegar
- Corn tortillas
- Onion
- Cilantro
- Lime
Directions:
- Marinate the pork shoulder with pineapple juice, minced garlic, chili powder, oregano, and vinegar for several hours or overnight.
- Grill the marinated meat on a spit or in a grill pan until it’s cooked and slightly charred.
- Slice the meat thinly.
- Heat the corn tortillas on a skillet.
- Serve the sliced pork in tortillas topped with chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
How to Serve Tacos al Pastor
Serve Tacos al Pastor warm with a side of lime wedges. Include some spicy salsa and guacamole for added flavor. These tacos are perfect for gatherings and can be paired with various drinks, like margaritas or agua fresca.
How to Store Tacos al Pastor
Tacos al Pastor can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you have leftover marinated meat, it can be kept in the freezer for up to a month. Just be sure to cool it down before freezing.
Tips to Make Tacos al Pastor
- Use fresh, ripe pineapples for the marinade to enhance the flavor.
- Grill the meat until it’s slightly crispy on the edges for that authentic taste.
- Allow the meat to rest before slicing so the juices stay inside.
Variation
You can make Tacos al Pastor with chicken or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option. The same marinade works well with different proteins.
FAQs
What does "Tacos al Pastor" mean?
Tacos al Pastor translates to "shepherd-style tacos." It refers to the style of cooking the marinated pork.
Can I make it without a grill?
Yes! You can use a skillet or an oven to cook the marinated meat if you don’t have a grill.
What type of pineapple should I use?
Fresh pineapple is best for marinating, as it adds sweetness and helps tenderize the meat. Canned pineapple can be used in a pinch if fresh isn’t available.
Tacos al Pastor
- Total Time: 140 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Carnivore
Description
Delicious Tacos al Pastor made with marinated pork shoulder and fresh toppings.
Ingredients
- Pork shoulder
- Pineapple
- Garlic
- Chili powder
- Oregano
- Vinegar
- Corn tortillas
- Onion
- Cilantro
- Lime
Instructions
- Marinate the pork shoulder with pineapple juice, minced garlic, chili powder, oregano, and vinegar for several hours or overnight.
- Grill the marinated meat on a spit or in a grill pan until it’s cooked and slightly charred.
- Slice the meat thinly.
- Heat the corn tortillas on a skillet.
- Serve the sliced pork in tortillas topped with chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Notes
Use fresh, ripe pineapples for the marinade to enhance the flavor. Allow the meat to rest before slicing so the juices stay inside.
- Prep Time: 120 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Tacos al Pastor, Mexican recipe, Cinco de Mayo, pork tacos, traditional cuisine