Print

Trompo: A Comprehensive Guide

Close-up of a freshly cooked trompo with juicy meat, warm tortillas, and fresh cilantro.

Trompo is a vibrant, spit-roasted meat dish with Middle Eastern roots and a bold Mexican soul, known for its marinated layers, vertical grilling, and flavorful accompaniments.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 kg chicken or beef (thinly sliced)
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Chopped onions (for serving)
  • Fresh cilantro (for serving)
  • Sliced avocado (optional)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)
  • Salsa or hot sauce (optional)
  • Corn or flour tortillas

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine garlic, cumin, paprika, oregano, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. Coat the meat evenly with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  3. Stack the marinated meat on a vertical spit, forming a wide base that tapers towards the top.
  4. Grill over low heat, rotating the spit continuously for even cooking.
  5. Baste the meat occasionally with its juices to retain moisture.
  6. Once cooked, slice the meat thinly in vertical cuts.
  7. Serve with warm tortillas, onions, cilantro, avocado, lime wedges, and salsa.

Notes

You can experiment with different meats like lamb or turkey. No vertical spit? Grill and slice thinly for similar flavor. Use whole-grain tortillas for a healthier twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: trompo, grilled meat, tacos al pastor, vertical spit, marinated meat

×