
Grilled Tacos al Pastor
We figured out how to get dripping, fall-apart tender meat for the best shortcut tacos al pastor.
- Makes4 servings
- Cook Time1 hour
- 2
Lebanese immigrants introduced spit-roasted meats known as shawarma to Mexico in the 19th century, and eventually tacos al pastor came to be. The dish consists of chili-seasoned spit-roasted pork shaved into thin slices and served in corn tortillas along with chopped pineapple, onion and cilantro. For our simplified version, we use pork tenderloin that has been pounded, briefly marinated and grilled. Chopped grilled pineapple tossed with fresh cilantro completes the tacos, along with a sprinkle of chopped white onion and, if desired, shredded red cabbage. To help simplify prep, purchase an already peeled and cored pineapple. The four chipotle chilies in this recipe yield medium-hot spiciness; if you like, reduce the heat by using only two or three. Leftover pork does not keep well because the raw pineapple will break down the meat. If you don't plan to serve all of the pork, set some aside before adding the sauce at the end.
Don't substitute regular chili powder for the ancho chili powder. Regular chili powder is a blend containing herbs, spices and salt in addition to chili; ancho chili powder is nothing more than ground ancho chilies. If you can't find ancho chili powder, purchase whole ancho chilies and remove the stems and seeds. Tear the pods into small pieces and pulverize them in a spice grinder.
To access this recipe, you need to be a member.
Join Milk Street and get instant access to over 3,500 recipes for just $1.
