Tacos al Pastor

Ingredients

While the original Mexican Tacos al Pastor typically use achiote paste and pineapple for marinating the pork, this Latvian adaptation incorporates Latvian spices such as caraway seeds and juniper berries. Additionally, instead of using traditional corn tortillas, we will be using Latvian rye bread as a base for the tacos. 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 vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Latvian honey 2 tablespoons Latvian honey
• 1 tablespoon caraway seeds 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
• 1 tablespoon juniper berries 1 tablespoon juniper berries
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 slices Latvian rye bread 4 slices Latvian rye bread
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 15g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 25g (8g sugars)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, honey, caraway seeds, juniper berries, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the sliced pork to the marinade and mix well to ensure the pork is coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. 4.
   Toast the Latvian rye bread slices until slightly crispy.
5. 5.
   Assemble the tacos by placing a generous amount of the cooked pork on each rye bread slice. Top with sliced onions and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Latvian rye bread — Choose a dense and hearty rye bread for the tacos, as it will hold up well to the toppings and flavors.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.
• For a smokier taste, grill the marinated pork instead of pan-frying it.
• Serve the tacos with a side of Latvian sauerkraut for added tanginess.

Serving advice

Serve the Latvian-inspired Tacos al Pastor hot, allowing the flavors to meld together. Offer additional toppings such as sour cream or Latvian cheese for those who prefer a creamier texture.

Presentation advice

Arrange the tacos on a platter, garnishing with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. Serve with a wedge of lime on the side for squeezing over the tacos.