Authentic Al Pastor Pork

Experience the bold, zesty flavors of Mexico with this recipe for Authentic Al Pastor Pork. Perfectly marinated pork shoulder is infused with a vibrant blend of guajillo and ancho chiles, fresh pineapple, citrus juices, and achiote paste, creating a rich and smoky flavor profile. Grilled to perfection, the caramelized pineapple and tender pork strips come together with warm tortillas, tangy onion, and fragrant cilantro to create irresistible tacos that transport your taste buds to the streets of Mexico City. Whether cooked on the grill or stovetop, this dish is a celebration of traditional cooking techniques and authentic taste. Ready to serve in just over two hours, it's ideal for taco night or any time you crave something uniquely delicious.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:150 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork shoulder
• 4 pieces dried guajillo chiles
• 2 pieces dried ancho chiles
• 1 cup pineapple
• 0.25 cup white vinegar
• 0.25 cup orange juice
• 1 piece lime
• 4 pieces garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons achiote paste
• 0.5 piece onion
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 12 pieces tortillas
• 4 pieces fresh pineapple rings

Directions

Step 1

Start by removing the stems and seeds from the guajillo and ancho chiles. Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.

Step 2

Transfer toasted chiles to a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let soak for about 20 minutes or until softened.

Step 3

Meanwhile, peel and core a fresh pineapple. Reserve one cup for blending and slice the rest into rings.

Step 4

In a blender, combine the drained chiles, 1 cup of pineapple, white vinegar, orange juice, the juice of one lime, garlic cloves, dried oregano, ground cumin, black pepper, salt, and achiote paste.

Step 5

Blend the ingredients until smooth, creating a rich marinade. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice if desired.

Step 6

Thinly slice the pork shoulder into small, manageable strips and place them into a large mixing bowl.

Step 7

Pour the marinade over the pork, mixing thoroughly to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 8

Preheat your grill or stove to medium heat. If using a grill, lightly oil the grates.

Step 9

Slice the onion into thin pieces and set aside.

Step 10

Cook the marinated pork on the preheated grill or in a stovetop skillet with vegetable oil. Cook in batches to prevent overcrowding, ensuring caramelized edges and cooked-through strips, about 15-20 minutes per batch.

Step 11

Grill the pineapple rings alongside the pork until caramelized. Once done, chop them into smaller chunks.

Step 12

Warm the tortillas on the grill or pan for about 30 seconds per side until pliable.

Step 13

Assemble your tacos by layering marinated pork on each tortilla, followed by grilled pineapple, onion slices, and fresh cilantro.

Step 14

Serve hot with extra lime wedges and enjoy the vibrant taste of Al Pastor Pork.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2744.7 grams (2744.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4449

Total Fat 177.10g	227%
Saturated Fat 54.10g	271%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.90g
Cholesterol 801mg	267%
Sodium 5467mg	238%
Total Carbohydrate 438.10g	159%
Dietary Fiber 56.60g	202%
Total Sugars 104.40g
Protein 265.30g	531%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 970mg	75%
Iron 37mg	206%
Potassium 6408mg	136%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 36.2%

Protein: 24.1%

Carbs: 39.8%