al pastor taco recipe
The Best al pastor taco recipe
Classic Al Pastor Tacos with Pineapple
A vibrant, flavorful taco recipe featuring marinated pork cooked with pineapple and spices, served with warm tortillas and fresh toppings. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Salt to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Diced red onion
- Sliced avocado
- Shredded lettuce
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine pork shoulder, pineapple juice, pineapple chunks, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, paprika, chili powder, cinnamon, and salt. Let marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight. -
2
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated pork and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the pork starts to brown. -
3
Transfer the pork to a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until the meat is tender and cooked through. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. -
4
While the pork bakes, heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 30 seconds per side to keep them soft. -
5
Slice the pork into thin strips and arrange on warm tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, diced red onion, avocado, and shredded lettuce.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Al Pastor Tacos with Pineapple Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Al Pastor Tacos with Pineapple
What is al pastor taco meat made of?
Al pastor taco meat traditionally includes ground beef or pork, marinated in a blend of pineapple juice, garlic, onion, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. The marinade often adds a sweet-savory depth that balances the smoky, spicy flavors of the taco.
Can I use chicken or turkey instead of pork or beef?
Yes, you can substitute chicken or turkey for the pork or beef in this recipe. Ground chicken works well and often absorbs the marinade more evenly, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. Turkey also holds up nicely to marinating and grilling.
How do I ensure the meat stays juicy after grilling?
To keep al pastor meat juicy, let it rest for 10–15 minutes after grilling before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute. If you’re grilling in batches, cover the meat loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the grill pan, as this can steam the meat instead of cooking it properly.
What’s the best way to serve these tacos with the meat?
Classic al pastor tacos pair well with warm corn tortillas, but flour tortillas work too. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese or feta for extra flavor. For extra richness, add avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with lime juice and chili powder.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely. The marinade can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Shake or stir it gently before using to ensure the spices and juices are well-distributed. For best results, marinate the meat for at least 2–4 hours, but overnight works too if you’re making a large batch.
