Tacos al pastor

Ingredients

While the essence of Tacos al pastor remains intact, the Puerto Rican adaptation introduces unique flavors and ingredients. The marinade incorporates Puerto Rican spices like adobo seasoning, annatto, and a hint of tropical fruit juices. Additionally, the toppings are influenced by Puerto Rican cuisine, featuring ingredients such as pickled onions, avocado, and a tangy pineapple salsa. We alse have the original recipe for Tacos al pastor, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) pork shoulder, thinly sliced 2 pounds (900g) pork shoulder, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) pineapple juice 1/4 cup (60ml) pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) orange juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) orange juice
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) adobo seasoning 2 tablespoons (30ml) adobo seasoning
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) annatto oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) annatto oil
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano 1 teaspoon (5g) dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika 1 teaspoon (5g) paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) black pepper
• 12 small corn tortillas 12 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup (150g) diced pineapple 1 cup (150g) diced pineapple
• 1/2 cup (75g) diced red onion 1/2 cup (75g) diced red onion
• 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 avocado, sliced 1 avocado, sliced
• Lime wedges, for serving Lime wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1885 KJ
• Fat: 25g (Saturated: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 30g (Sugars: 8g)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the pineapple juice, orange juice, lime juice, adobo seasoning, annatto oil, cumin, oregano, paprika, coriander, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the sliced pork shoulder to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. 3.
   Preheat your grill or grill pan over 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 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
6. 6.
   While the pork is resting, warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds per side.
7. 7.
   To assemble the tacos, place a few slices of grilled pork on each tortilla. Top with diced pineapple, red onion, chopped cilantro, and avocado slices.
8. 8.
   Serve the tacos al pastor with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pineapple — Choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor. If fresh pineapple is not available, you can use canned pineapple chunks, drained.
• Adobo seasoning — Look for Puerto Rican-style adobo seasoning in specialty stores or make your own by combining garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoky flavor, you can grill the pineapple slices alongside the pork.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• To make the tacos extra crispy, lightly toast the tortillas on a dry skillet before assembling.
• Customize your toppings by adding sliced jalapenos, crumbled queso fresco, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• If you don't have access to a grill, you can cook the marinated pork in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through.

Serving advice

Serve the Puerto Rican-style Tacos al Pastor with a side of refried beans and a fresh green salad. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges for squeezing over the tacos.

Presentation advice

Arrange the tacos on a platter, allowing the vibrant colors of the toppings to shine through. Sprinkle some extra chopped cilantro on top for a pop of freshness. Serve with a colorful tropical fruit salsa on the side for an added burst of flavor.