How Long Do You Cook Al Pastor

Thin slices of pork shoulder are marinated in a blend of dried chilies, spices, achiote, and pineapple. If you enjoy your tacos sweet, spicy, and smoky, you will love tacos al pastor. Al pastor is traditionally prepared on a vertical spit but with a hot heavy skillet, you can still enjoy al pastor.

Have your taco Tuesdays become a little … predictable? Have you been using the same seasoned ground beef taco recipe for the last, oh, 523 Tuesdays? If so, I suggest changing things up with some Tacos al Pastor. This sweet, spicy, and smoky pork taco is everything.

What is al pastor?

Al pastor is a delicious preparation of pork developed in central Mexico. True al pastor is made with pork that is first marinated in dried chiles, spices, achiote, and pineapple, then grilled on a vertical spit.

It's typically served on tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. If tacos al pastor is on the menu, you better believe that's what I am ordering.

Why is it called al pastor?

As I mentioned earlier, al pastor is from central Mexico. But did you know that it can trace its roots all the way back to Lebanon? In the early 1900s, many Lebanese immigrated to Mexico and brought with them a rich food culture. One of the traditions they brought with them was the method of roasting meat on a vertical spit.

Over time, Mexican shepherds adopted this technique and began preparing strips of marinated pork on vertical spits. This preparation was eventually called "al pastor," which means "shepherd style."

What cut of meat is best for al pastor?

The most traditional cut of pork to use for al pastor is thinly sliced pork shoulder. The fact that it happens to be my favorite cut of pork only further explains why I love al pastor so much. You can also use pork sirloin or pork loin, but be careful as these two cuts are much leaner than pork shoulder and can easily dry out.

Full disclaimer: I did not make this recipe on a vertical spit, because let's be honest, how many of us have a vertical spit laying around. So I'm not going to claim that this recipe is authentic. But it's pretty darn close and it's assuredly delicious.

Instead of seasoned ground meat, try some tacos al pastor for your next taco Tuesday!

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