Caribbean-style Tacos al Pastor

Ingredients

In this Caribbean adaptation, we infuse the Tacos al Pastor with the unique flavors of the Caribbean cuisine. The marinade incorporates tropical fruits like mango and papaya, along with Caribbean spices such as allspice and Scotch bonnet peppers. The traditional corn tortillas are replaced with soft and fluffy Caribbean-style flatbreads. The result is a delightful fusion of Mexican and Caribbean flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise. 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
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 1 ripe papaya, peeled and diced 1 ripe papaya, peeled and diced
• 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and minced 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and minced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Caribbean jerk seasoning 2 tablespoons Caribbean jerk seasoning
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced
• Caribbean-style flatbreads or tortillas Caribbean-style flatbreads or tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving) Lime wedges (for serving)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 20g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a blender, combine the diced mango, diced papaya, minced Scotch bonnet peppers, minced garlic, Caribbean jerk seasoning, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and vegetable oil. Blend until smooth to create the marinade.
2. 2.
   Place the thinly sliced pork shoulder in a large bowl and pour the marinade over it. Mix well to ensure the pork is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. 3.
   Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and thread the slices onto skewers, alternating with pineapple slices.
4. 4.
   Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and slightly charred. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
5. 5.
   Warm the Caribbean-style flatbreads or tortillas on the grill or in a pan.
6. 6.
   To assemble the tacos, place a few slices of the grilled pork and pineapple on each flatbread or tortilla. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mango — Choose ripe mangoes for the best flavor. Look for mangoes that yield slightly to gentle pressure when ripe.
• Scotch bonnet peppers — Handle with caution and wear gloves when mincing, as they are very spicy. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
• Caribbean jerk seasoning — If you can't find Caribbean jerk seasoning, you can make your own by combining spices like allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over the assembled tacos before serving.
• If you prefer a milder spice level, remove the seeds from the Scotch bonnet peppers before mincing.
• If you don't have access to a grill, you can also cook the pork and pineapple skewers in a hot skillet or under the broiler.
• Serve the tacos with a side of Caribbean-style coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
• Experiment with different toppings such as diced avocado, pickled onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce to customize your tacos.

Serving advice

Serve the Caribbean-style Tacos al Pastor hot, allowing your guests to assemble their own tacos. Provide lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos to enhance the flavors. Accompany the tacos with a side of Caribbean-style coleslaw and a refreshing tropical drink for a complete Caribbean dining experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled pork and pineapple skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro. Place the warm Caribbean-style flatbreads or tortillas in a basket or on a separate plate. Serve the lime wedges in a small bowl alongside the tacos. This presentation will showcase the vibrant colors and enticing aromas of the Caribbean-style Tacos al Pastor.