Tacos al pastor

Ingredients

While the original Tacos al pastor traditionally uses pork marinated in a blend of spices and pineapple, our Croatian adaptation incorporates local ingredients and flavors. We substitute the pork with succulent lamb, infuse it with aromatic Croatian herbs, and add a touch of Mediterranean influence to create a tantalizing fusion of cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Tacos al pastor, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) lamb shoulder, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) lamb shoulder, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 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)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) white wine vinegar 1/2 cup (120ml) white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice
• 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 8 small corn tortillas 8 small corn 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: 20g (Saturated Fat: 5g)
• Carbohydrates: 15g (Sugars: 4g)
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, dried rosemary, dried thyme, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. 2.
   Add the lamb slices to the bowl and mix well, ensuring each slice is coated with the marinade. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, and honey to create a tangy dressing.
4. 4.
   Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated lamb slices for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until nicely charred and cooked through.
5. 5.
   Remove the lamb from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, thinly slice the cooked lamb into bite-sized pieces.
6. 6.
   In a skillet, sauté the sliced onion and bell peppers until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
7. 7.
   Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or over an open flame until they are soft and pliable.
8. 8.
   To assemble the tacos, place a few slices of the grilled lamb on each tortilla. Top with the sautéed onion and bell peppers. Drizzle with the tangy dressing and garnish with fresh cilantro.
9. 9.
   Serve the Croatian-inspired Tacos al pastor with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb — For tender and flavorful meat, choose lamb shoulder and slice it thinly against the grain.
• Corn tortillas — To make the tortillas more pliable, heat them in a dry skillet or over an open flame until they become soft and slightly charred.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier kick, add extra cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• For a smoky flavor, grill the lamb over charcoal instead of using a grill pan.
• Customize your toppings by adding sliced radishes, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Serving advice

Serve the Croatian-inspired Tacos al pastor with a side of fresh mixed greens or a cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the tacos on a platter, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side for an inviting and colorful presentation.