Dish

Tacos al pastor

Al Pastor Tacos

Tacos al pastor are similar to shawarma or gyros, but they are made with pork instead of lamb or beef. The pork is marinated in a mixture of spices and pineapple juice, which gives it a sweet and tangy flavor. The meat is then cooked on a spit, which allows it to cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior. The meat is then sliced and served on a corn tortilla, along with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Tacos al pastor are typically served with a side of salsa and guacamole.

Cuisine of the Americas› North American cuisine› Mexican cuisine

Street Food

Origins and history

Tacos al pastor are believed to have originated in Mexico, where they are a popular street food. The dish is said to have been inspired by shawarma, which was brought to Mexico by Lebanese immigrants. The dish has since become a staple of Mexican cuisine and is now commonly found in other Latin American countries, as well as in the United States.

Dietary considerations

Tacos al pastor are a meat-based dish and are not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. They are also high in calories and fat due to the pork and tortilla. To make a healthier version of tacos al pastor, you can use a leaner cut of meat, such as chicken or turkey, and a whole wheat tortilla to increase the fiber content of the dish.

Variations

There are many variations of tacos al pastor, including using different types of meat, such as chicken or beef. You can also add different toppings, such as diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, or crumbled cotija cheese. Some people also like to add beans or rice to the filling to make the dish more filling.

Presentation and garnishing

Tacos al pastor are typically served on a corn tortilla, which is slightly smaller than a flour tortilla. To make them look more presentable, you can sprinkle extra cilantro and diced onions on top of the meat. You can also garnish them with a slice of lime and a sprig of cilantro.

Tips & Tricks

To make the meat more flavorful, you can marinate it overnight in the refrigerator. This will allow the meat to absorb the flavors of the spices and pineapple juice. You can also use a grill pan or a cast iron skillet to cook the meat if you don't have a spit.

Side-dishes

Tacos al pastor are typically served with a side of salsa and guacamole. You can also serve them with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal.

Drink pairings

Tacos al pastor pair well with a variety of drinks, including beer, margaritas, and soda. For a more authentic experience, you can pair them with a glass of horchata, which is a sweet and creamy rice milk drink that is popular in Mexico.