How To Make Tacos Al Pastor At Home – A Step-by-step Guide

Tacos al pastor are a beloved Mexican delicacy, showcasing succulent pork marinated in a blend of spices and slow-cooked on a vertical spit, resembling a Middle Eastern shawarma. The meat is shaved off the spit as it cooks, creating tender and flavorful tacos.

Ingredients for Tacos al Pastor:

For the Marinade:

• 1 boneless pork shoulder (about 3 pounds)
• 2 cups achiote paste
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Tacos:

• Corn tortillas
• Cilantro, chopped
• White onion, sliced
• Pineapple, grilled or roasted
• Guacamole, optional
• Salsa, optional

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Tacos al Pastor:

1. Prepping the Pork:

• Remove any excess fat from the pork shoulder.
• Cut the pork into thin slices, about 1/4-inch thick.

2. Creating the Marinade:

• In a large bowl, combine the achiote paste, orange juice, pineapple juice, vinegar, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
• Mix well to form a smooth paste.

3. Marinating the Pork:

• Add the pork slices to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor.

4. Assembling the Spit:

• Use a vertical spit roaster or a makeshift one by using a meat skewer and two forks.
• Thread the marinated pork slices onto the spit, layering them tightly.

5. Cooking the Pork:

• Place the spit over a medium-high heat source, such as a gas grill or a charcoal grill.
• Cook the pork for about 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
• Rotate the spit regularly to ensure even cooking.

6. Shaving the Meat:

• Once the pork is cooked, use a sharp knife to shave off thin slices of meat from the spit.
• Continue shaving until all the meat is removed.

7. Assembling the Tacos:

• Warm the corn tortillas on a griddle or in the microwave.
• Place a few slices of shaved pork in the center of the tortilla.
• Top with cilantro, white onion, grilled or roasted pineapple, guacamole, and salsa (optional).

Tips for Perfect Tacos al Pastor:

• Use fresh pineapple juice for the marinade to enhance the flavor.
• Marinate the pork for as long as possible to allow the flavors to penetrate.
• Shave the pork thinly for tender and juicy tacos.
• Grill or roast the pineapple for a smoky and caramelized taste.
• Serve the tacos immediately with your favorite toppings.

Variations on Tacos al Pastor:

• Tacos de Pastor con Queso: Add melted cheese to the tacos for a cheesy and indulgent twist.
• Tacos de Pastor con Piña: Top the tacos with extra grilled pineapple for a burst of sweet and tangy flavor.
• Tacos de Pastor con Frijoles: Add a layer of refried beans to the tacos for a hearty and filling option.

Health Benefits of Tacos al Pastor:

• Pork is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.
• Pineapple contains antioxidants and enzymes that promote digestion.
• Cilantro is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Tacos al Pastor: A Cultural Delicacy

Tacos al pastor have become an integral part of Mexican cuisine, representing the fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and Middle Eastern culinary traditions. They are a symbol of Mexican street food culture and a beloved dish enjoyed by people of all ages.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use a different type of meat for tacos al pastor?
A: Yes, you can use chicken, beef, or lamb instead of pork.

Q: How long can I marinate the pork?
A: You can marinate the pork for up to 24 hours, but 4 hours is the minimum recommended time.

Q: Can I cook the pork in the oven instead of on a spit?
A: Yes, you can roast the pork in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1-2 hours, or until cooked through.