Al Pastor, a beloved dish with roots deeply embedded in Mexican cuisine, offers a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Originally inspired by Lebanese immigrants to Mexico, this dish has evolved into a street food staple, traditionally cooked on a vertical spit. Fear not, though – this guide will show you how to achieve mouthwatering Al Pastor at home, no spit required.

al pastor recipe

Ingredients List

To start, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 lbs of pork shoulder, thinly sliced
  • 4 dried Guajillo chiles
  • 2 Ancho chiles
  • 3 Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1/2 cup of white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup of pineapple juice
  • 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into half-inch slices
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of oregano
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons of achiote paste
  • 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
  • Corn tortillas, for serving

Preparation Steps

  1. Marinate the Meat: Start by rehydrating the Guajillo and Ancho chiles in hot water until soft, about 15 minutes. Drain and remove the stems and seeds. In a blender, combine the chiles, chipotle peppers, vinegar, pineapple juice, garlic, cumin, oregano, paprika, cloves, achiote paste, and salt and pepper. Blend until smooth. In a large bowl, coat the pork slices with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  2. Assemble the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least an hour to prevent burning. Thread the marinated pork and pineapple slices alternately onto the skewers.

Cooking Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, wait until the coals are ash-covered and distribute them evenly. For gas grills, preheat to achieve an even temperature.
  2. Grill the Al Pastor: Place the skewers on the grill, turning every few minutes. Cook until the pork is slightly charred and cooked through about 10-15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Traditionally, Al Pastor is served on warm corn tortillas with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Consider adding a side of guacamole or salsa verde for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for Success

  • Marinating Time: For the best flavor, allow the pork to marinate overnight.
  • Cut Against the Grain: When slicing your pork, cut against the grain for more tender bites.
  • Pineapple: Don't skip the pineapple! It adds a signature sweetness and helps tenderize the meat.

Conclusion

There you have it – a comprehensive guide to creating delicious Al Pastor right in your backyard. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a taste of Mexico. Don't forget to share your culinary creations on social media and tag us for a chance to be featured. Happy grilling!

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