Tacos al Pastor

Ingredients

While the original Mexican Tacos al Pastor typically use pork marinated in achiote paste and pineapple, our Argentinian adaptation incorporates a unique blend of spices, including paprika, cumin, and oregano. Additionally, we will be grilling the marinated pork instead of spit-roasting it. These modifications infuse the dish with a distinct Argentinian flair while maintaining the essence of the original recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Tacos al pastor, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) pork shoulder, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) pork shoulder, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons paprika 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon cumin 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 8 small tortillas 8 small tortillas
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 5g)
• Carbohydrates: 20g (Sugars: 2g)
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, cumin, dried oregano, minced garlic, white vinegar, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. 2.
   Add the thinly sliced pork shoulder to the marinade and mix well to ensure each piece is coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and thread the slices onto skewers.
5. 5.
   Grill the pork skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Remove the pork from the skewers and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, thinly slice the grilled pork.
7. 7.
   Warm the tortillas on the grill or stovetop.
8. 8.
   To assemble the tacos, place a few slices of grilled pork on each tortilla. Top with chopped onion, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
9. 9.
   Serve the Argentinian-style Tacos al Pastor immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork shoulder — For best results, choose a well-marbled pork shoulder as it will result in juicier and more flavorful meat.
• Paprika — Opt for a high-quality smoked paprika to add a rich and smoky flavor to the marinade.
• Tortillas — Warm the tortillas just before serving to enhance their texture and make them more pliable.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the marinade.
• Serve the tacos with a side of chimichurri sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
• For a vegetarian option, substitute the pork with grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms marinated in the same spices.
• Experiment with different toppings such as sliced avocado, pickled jalapenos, or crumbled queso fresco.
• If you don't have a grill, you can cook the marinated pork in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through.

Serving advice

Serve the Argentinian-style Tacos al Pastor with a side of refried beans and a fresh green salad. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a burst of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced grilled pork, chopped onion, and fresh cilantro in separate bowls on a platter. Place the warm tortillas in a basket or lined tray. Encourage guests to assemble their own tacos for an interactive dining experience.