Tacos Al Pastor, Gringo Style

Tacos al pastor are a popular Mexican dish made with marinated pork that is cooked on a vertical spit, similar to how shawarma or gyros are cooked. The pork is typically marinated in a mixture of chili peppers, spices, and pineapple juice, which gives it a sweet and savory flavor.

To make the tacos, the cooked pork is sliced thinly and served on small corn tortillas, along with diced onions, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Some variations may also include sliced pineapple or a spicy salsa.

Tacos al pastor are a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion, from a quick lunch to a festive dinner party. They are also a great option for people who are looking for a gluten-free or low-carb meal, as they can be easily customized to fit dietary needs.

Tacos reinvented! Enjoy Mexican carnitas and al pastor flavors using simple, accessible ingredients in this controversial but delicious recipe.

Carnitas

• 1kg fatty cut of pork (e.g. neck)
• 8g salt (about 1tsp)
• water to cover
• 1 tsp store-bought Italian herb mix
• 3 red bell peppers
• 1 thick slice onion, toasted
• 2-3 garlic cloves, toasted
• 2 pieces dark chocolate
• 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 more tsp Italian herb mix
• Kiwi Salsa Verde
• 2 green bell peppers
• 2-3 green jalapenos (optional)
• 1/4 onion
• 1 clove garlic
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 Tbsp honey
• 1 lime, juice only
• 1 firm green kiwi, peeled
• 1/2 tomato, finely diced
• 2 Tbsp cilantro, finely chopped
• Toasted Corn Flour Tortillas (makes 7-8; scale up as needed)
• 90g wheat flour
• 30g toasted corn flour
• pinch of salt
• 65g boiling hot water
• 5g vegetable oil
• + finely diced onion for garnish
• + cilantro for garnish
• + chopped canned pineapple
• + lime wedges

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, chili powder, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the thinly sliced pork to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
5. Thread the marinated pork onto a vertical spit or skewers and roast in the oven for about 45 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. While the pork is cooking, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or on a griddle.
7. To assemble the tacos, place some sliced pork onto each tortilla and top with diced onions, chopped cilantro, and sliced pineapple (if desired).
8. Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the top and serve immediately.

Enjoy your homemade tacos al pastor!