Authentic Tacos al Pastor
Mexico City's legendary street taco — marinated pork shaved from a vertical spit (trompo), topped with pineapple, onion and coriander.
About This Mexico Recipe
Authentic Tacos al Pastor is one of the most beloved dishes from Mexico, deeply rooted in the country's culinary tradition. This authentic recipe has been passed down through generations and represents the very soul of Mexico's food culture.
The secret to an authentic Authentic Tacos al Pastor lies in the quality of ingredients and the patience of preparation. Every component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavours that makes this dish so special. When you cook this recipe, you're not just making food — you're recreating a piece of Mexico's rich culinary heritage.
How to Cook Authentic Tacos al Pastor — Complete Guide
Before You Begin
Read the entire recipe before starting. Gather and measure all ingredients (mise en place). This medium-difficulty dish takes approximately 4 hours (marinating) to prepare and 30 min to cook — allow 30 min extra time if this is your first attempt.
Difficulty
Medium
Prep Time
4 hours (marinating)
Cook Time
30 min
Serves
8 people
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow each step carefully. Steps are ordered for best results — don't skip ahead.
- 1
Toast and soak dried chillies, blend with achiote and spices
This is your starting step — proper preparation here ensures everything else goes smoothly.
- 2
Marinate pork in blended paste 3-4 hours
- 3
Cook pork in batches on very hot cast iron
- 4
Add pineapple to same pan to caramelise
- 5
Warm corn tortillas on dry comal
- 6
Assemble with pork, pineapple, onion and coriander
- 7
Serve immediately with lime wedges
Final step — your Authentic Tacos al Pastor is almost ready to serve!
Chef's Tips & Tricks
Expert advice to help you nail this dish every time:
Achiote paste gives the authentic red colour
Corn tortillas only — never flour for al pastor
Caramelised pineapple is essential, not optional
Serving Suggestions
Authentic Tacos al Pastor is best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the kitchen. In Mexico, this dish is traditionally served as a street food and pairs beautifully with local side dishes and beverages. Consider serving it family-style for a truly authentic experience.
For the most authentic presentation, use traditional Mexico tableware if available. Garnish generously and serve immediately — this dish does not improve with waiting. Leftovers can typically be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
Ingredients
For 8 servings
- 1kg pork shoulder (thinly sliced)
- 3 dried guajillo chillies
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo
- 1 tsp achiote paste
- 1/2 pineapple
- White corn tortillas
- White onion, coriander, lime
- Garlic, vinegar, oregano, cumin
Want to eat this in Mexico?
🇲🇽 Mexico Travel Guide