The Best Homemade Tacos Al Pastor Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These homemade Tacos Al Pastor will quickly become your new favorite meal, bursting with bold flavors and easy to make at home. They’re perfect for a fun dinner with family or friends, and you’ll love how customizable they are to suit your tastes. The tender marinated pork pairs perfectly with fresh pineapple, giving it a sweet and savory twist. Plus, they’re ready in just about 30 minutes, so you can enjoy restaurant-quality tacos without the wait. You’ll feel like a pro chef, even if it’s your first time trying this recipe!
Recipe
Tacos al pastor are a beloved Mexican street food dish, featuring marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. This homemade version brings the vibrant flavors of the dish to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, thinly sliced
- 3 guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 2 ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
- Corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Chopped white onion
Instructions:
- Soak the guajillo and ancho chiles in hot water for 15 minutes until softened.
- In a blender, combine the soaked chiles, pineapple juice, vinegar, garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Place the sliced pork in a large bowl and pour the marinade over it. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Thread the marinated pork onto skewers, alternating with pineapple chunks.
- Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, rotating halfway through, until the pork is cooked through.
- Warm the corn tortillas and slice the cooked pork thinly.
- Assemble the tacos with pork, pineapple, chopped onion, and cilantro.
Notes:
For a smokier flavor, grill the skewers instead of baking them. Adjust the spice level by adding or reducing the number of chiles.
Equipment:
Blender, skewers, baking sheet, foil
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes (+ marinating time)
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Cuisine:
Mexican
Serving:
Serves 4-6
Nutrition
This homemade Tacos Al Pastor recipe offers a flavorful and nutritious meal option. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
Calories: 320
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 450mg
What To Serve With It
When I make tacos al pastor, I love pairing them with fresh sides like grilled pineapple or a zesty avocado salad. A cold beer or tangy agua fresca always seems to hit the spot, making the meal feel complete. Let me share some of my favorite combos that’ll take your taco night to the next level.
Side Dishes Ideas
Since tacos al pastor pack so much flavor, I love pairing them with sides that complement their vibrant taste without stealing the show. A simple cilantro-lime rice adds freshness, while charred elote (Mexican street corn) brings smoky sweetness. Refried beans or black beans, seasoned with garlic and cumin, add creamy texture. For crunch, I serve pickled red onions or a tangy cabbage slaw. Grilled pineapple slices echo the tacos’ sweetness, and a side of guacamole balances the spice. These sides enhance the meal without overpowering the star—those juicy, spiced tacos. Trust me, they’ll make your feast unforgettable!
Perfect Drink Pairings
You’ve got your tacos al pastor and their tasty sides ready, so let’s talk about drinks to round out the meal. A cold Mexican beer, like a crisp lager or light pilsner, cuts through the richness of the pork. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try horchata—its sweet, cinnamon flavor balances the spice. For a revitalizing twist, a tangy tamarind soda or a citrusy agua fresca works wonders. And if you’re feeling fancy, a smoky mezcal margarita adds a fun kick. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements those bold flavors without overpowering them. Cheers!
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