walking tacos recipe
The Best walking tacos recipe
These tacos are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weekend brunch, a quick lunch for the kids after school, or a light dinner when you need something fresh but not too much effort. They’re also surprisingly good for you if you keep things simple. The focus on whole ingredients—like whole wheat tortillas, fresh lettuce, and plenty of veggies—means you’re getting fiber, vitamins, and protein without all the extra calories. My kids have been eating them for years, and I’ve never had anyone complain about the portion sizes. Plus, they’re great for meal prep because you can make a big batch and store them in the fridge for a few days. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a win all around—easy, healthy, and always a hit with everyone.
Walking Tacos (Tacos al Pastor)
A flavorful Mexican-inspired dish featuring marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, served with pineapple salsa and warm tortillas. The smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors make this a must-try!
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder (cut into chunks)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup chopped pineapple (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- Salt to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika. -
2
In a separate bowl, combine the pork chunks with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best flavor). -
3
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). If using a vertical spit, thread the marinated pork onto it. If using a skewer, thread the pork chunks onto it and wrap in foil to prevent drying. -
4
Cook the pork: Place the spit or skewer on a baking tray lined with foil. Bake for about 1 hour 15 mins, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and slightly charred. -
5
Prepare the salsa verde: In a bowl, mix tomato sauce, cilantro, lime juice, jalapeño, white onion, garlic, and salt. -
6
Warm the tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 20-30 seconds per side to keep them soft. -
7
Assemble tacos: Divide the cooked pork evenly among the tortillas. Top with salsa verde and pineapple chunks.
🔧Equipment
- Vertical spit (or a large skewer for home use)
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Meat mallet (optional, for tenderizing)
- Oven (for indirect cooking)
- Tongs
- Serving platter
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For a quicker version, use pre-marinated pork and cook it directly in the oven.
- Adjust the spice level by adding or reducing cayenne pepper.
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice or black beans for a complete meal.
Watch Video Of How Walking Tacos (Tacos al Pastor) Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Walking Tacos (Tacos al Pastor)
What is the difference between traditional tacos and walking tacos in terms of preparation?
Walking tacos are a fun, interactive dish where diners “walk” their tacos on a conveyor belt or a long tray to heat them up, while traditional tacos are assembled and eaten immediately. The key difference lies in the method of cooking: walking tacos are grilled or fried on a moving surface, whereas traditional tacos are typically cooked in a skillet or oven before being served.
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Can I use any type of tortilla for walking tacos?
While corn tortillas are most commonly used for walking tacos due to their flexibility and ability to hold fillings well, you can experiment with soft flour tortillas if they’re slightly thicker and sturdy enough. Just ensure they’re warm enough to hold the fillings securely while walking them.
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How do I ensure the tacos stay warm and crispy while walking?
To keep walking tacos warm and crispy, use a preheated grill pan or a long, wide skillet (like a griddle) set to medium-high heat. Place the tortillas on a heat-resistant tray or a wire rack to allow excess oil to drip away, and walk them gently but steadily. For extra crispiness, lightly brush the tortillas with oil before grilling.
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What fillings work best for walking tacos?
Classic walking tacos pair well with traditional fillings like grilled chicken, carnitas, or beef, but you can also try seafood (like shrimp or fish tacos), veggie options (such as grilled peppers and onions), or even breakfast tacos (eggs, cheese, and salsa). The key is using fillings that hold up well to grilling and don’t get soggy.
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How can I make walking tacos more interactive for guests?
To enhance the interactive experience, set up a designated walking area with a long tray or conveyor belt, provide a variety of toppings (like salsa, guacamole, and cheese) on a side table, and encourage guests to assemble their own tacos before walking them. You can also add a playful twist by using a “taco bar” setup with different flavors of tortillas or unique toppings.
