Authentic Tacos Al Pastor With Pineapple and Cilantro
Experience the deliciousness of Authentic Tacos Al Pastor with marinated pork, grilled pineapple, and fresh cilantro. Perfect for taco night!
Equipment
- Grill Pan or Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Serving Platter
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork shoulder (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp achiote paste
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup pineapple (fresh, diced)
- 8 corn tortillas (small)
- 1/2 cup onion (diced)
- 1/2 cup cilantro (fresh, chopped)
- lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Marinate Pork for Intense FlavorTo achieve an intense flavor in your Tacos al Pastor, you should always marinate the pork shoulder before cooking. Trust me; this step is essential! By marinating, you allow those bold spices to seep into the meat, transforming it into a flavor-packed delight.Start by mixing olive oil, achiote paste, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This simple marinade makes all the difference. You can even play around with marinade variations—maybe add some chipotle for a smoky kick!When you slice your pork shoulder, think about the cuts you're using. Thin slices work best as they soak up that marinade beautifully.Once coated, cover your marinated pork and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have the time. This waiting game just builds anticipation! Just imagine that savory goodness simmering in your kitchen.
- Cook Pork Until CharredCooking the marinated pork until it's beautifully charred is essential for achieving that authentic Tacos al Pastor flavor. You've done the hard work of marinating your pork, so now it's time to showcase those flavors!Preheat your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to create that mouthwatering char, but not so hot that it burns the meat.Carefully add the marinated pork slices in a single layer. This is where those grilling techniques come into play. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You're looking for a nice, golden-brown color that signals deliciousness! The aroma will make your mouth water, trust me.Once the pork is cooked through, let it rest for a few minutes. This step is essential—it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each bite tender and flavorful.Isn't it amazing how a little patience pays off?
- Add Grilled Pineapple SlicesNow that your pork is perfectly charred, it's time to add those grilled pineapple slices that will elevate your Tacos al Pastor to the next level.Picture it: the juicy sweetness of the grilled pineapple mingling with the savory pork—it's a flavor enhancement you won't want to miss.Heat up your pan again and toss in the diced pineapple. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes until they get those beautiful caramelized edges.You'll start to smell that sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen, and trust me, it's absolutely irresistible!Once the pineapple is ready, you can layer it over your pork in the warm corn tortillas.Just imagine the symphony of flavors as the sweet grilled pineapple contrasts with the smoky, spiced pork. It's pure bliss on a tortilla!
- Assemble Tacos With ToppingsOnce your grilled pork and caramelized pineapple are ready, it's time to assemble your tacos with delicious toppings. Grab those warm corn tortillas and place a generous portion of that smoky, succulent pork on each one. Can you smell the flavors already? The combination of marinated pork and sweet pineapple will make your taste buds dance!Now, let's talk taco toppings. Sprinkle diced onion over the meat—its sharpness perfectly balances the richness of the pork. Then, add a handful of fresh cilantro for that vibrant burst of flavor and color. If you're feeling adventurous, why not throw on some sliced jalapeños? They'll kick things up a notch and add a delightful heat that complements the sweet and savory elements beautifully.As you layer these toppings, think about the flavor combinations you're creating. Each bite should be an explosion of taste, a little party in your mouth!Once you've assembled your tacos, take a moment to admire your handiwork. It's not just food; it's a celebration of flavor. Ready to dig in? Let's enjoy these tacos al pastor together!
- Serve With Lime WedgesAfter assembling your tacos with all those vibrant toppings, it's time to elevate the flavors even further by serving them with fresh lime wedges.You might wonder why lime is such a staple in taco traditions. Well, the zesty citrus not only brightens the dish but also brings a revitalizing balance to the rich, savory pork and sweet pineapple.When you squeeze that lime over your tacos, you're not just adding flavor; you're reaping the lime benefits too! Limes are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, making them a delicious way to boost your health while enjoying your meal.As you bite into your taco, the tangy lime juice complements the smoky flavors, making each bite an explosion of taste.Plus, who doesn't love that extra zing? It's like a little party for your taste buds!
- Garnish With Extra CilantroTo take your Tacos al Pastor to the next level, don't forget to garnish them with extra cilantro. This vibrant herb isn't just for show; it brings a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the smoky, savory flavors of your tacos.Plus, cilantro has some great health benefits, like being rich in antioxidants and aiding digestion. Who knew your taco night could be so good for you?Now, when you're ready to plate your tacos, sprinkle a generous handful of chopped cilantro over the top. This isn't just about flavor; it adds a beautiful pop of color that makes your dish look irresistible.If you're feeling adventurous, consider some garnish alternatives too! Diced radishes or sliced jalapeños can add a crunchy texture or a spicy kick.
Nutrition
Calories: 375kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 17gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 46mgSodium: 80mgPotassium: 457mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 427IUVitamin C: 23mgCalcium: 78mgIron: 2mg