Tacos al Pastor

Ingredients

While the original Tacos al Pastor is traditionally made with marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, our Dutch-inspired version incorporates elements of Dutch cuisine. We substitute the pork with succulent marinated chicken and add a touch of Dutch spices to create a harmonious blend of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Tacos al pastor, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons Dutch spice blend (a mix of nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon) 2 tablespoons Dutch spice blend (a mix of nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon)
• 2 tablespoons paprika 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small tortillas 8 small tortillas
• 1 cup (235ml) pineapple chunks 1 cup (235ml) pineapple chunks
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 30g (Sugars: 8g)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the vegetable oil, Dutch spice blend, paprika, white vinegar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Set aside to rest for a few minutes.
5. 5.
   Warm the tortillas on the grill for a few seconds on each side.
6. 6.
   Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
7. 7.
   Assemble the tacos by placing a few slices of chicken on each tortilla. Top with pineapple chunks and garnish with fresh cilantro.
8. 8.
   Serve the Dutch-inspired Tacos al Pastor with lime wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken thighs — Ensure the chicken thighs are boneless and skinless for easier grilling and slicing.
• Dutch spice blend — If you can't find a pre-made Dutch spice blend, you can make your own by combining equal parts of nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon.
• Pineapple chunks — Use fresh pineapple chunks for a burst of sweetness, or canned pineapple chunks if fresh is not available.
• Tortillas — Warm the tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side to make them pliable and enhance their flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoky flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade.
• Serve the tacos with a side of Dutch-style coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
• Experiment with different toppings such as sliced radishes, pickled onions, or crumbled feta cheese.
• If you don't have access to a grill, you can cook the marinated chicken thighs in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through.

Serving advice

Serve the Dutch-inspired Tacos al Pastor with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos. Accompany them with a side of Dutch-style coleslaw and a refreshing drink to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced chicken, pineapple chunks, and fresh cilantro on top of the tortillas for an appealing visual presentation. Serve the tacos on a wooden platter or individual plates for an authentic touch.