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.
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
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- 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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