Get ready to fire up your taste buds! Al pastor, a popular Mexican dish, has taken the world by storm. The sweet and savory combination of marinated pork, onions, cilantro, and pineapple on a stick is a culinary dream come true. But what if you could take this flavor profile to new heights with creative twists and variations? Welcome to our collection of 18 flavorful Al Pastor recipes that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico.
From classic tacos to innovative pizzas and nachos, we’ve got you covered with a diverse range of ideas that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a meat-lover or prefer plant-based options, we’ve included something for everyone in this mouth-watering lineup.
Classic Pork Al Pastor Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this authentic recipe for Classic Pork Al Pastor Tacos. Tender pork, marinated in a blend of spices and citrus, is grilled to perfection and wrapped in warm tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and diced onion for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade, turning to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove pork from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled pork into thin strips and serving with radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and onion.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (marinating time not included)
Chicken Al Pastor Skewers
Inspired by the popular street food from Mexico, these chicken al pastor skewers are a twist on traditional shawarma. Marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection, they’re sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Pita bread and toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot with pita bread and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Al Pastor Pineapple Pizza
This unique pizza combines the classic flavors of al pastor with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a mouthwatering twist on traditional pizza. With its combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado, this pizza is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup al pastor sauce (or regular tomato sauce)
– 8 oz boneless chicken breast, shredded
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough and spread al pastor sauce over the crust.
3. Top with shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, sliced pineapple, and diced avocado.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the toppings.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Pork Al Pastor
Transform the flavors of traditional Mexican street food into a comforting, slow-cooked meal with this simple recipe. Slow Cooker Pork Al Pastor is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 dried ancho or guajillo chilies, stemmed and seeded
– Optional: pineapple chunks, cilantro, onion, lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine pork, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the dried chilies.
4. Serve with your choice of toppings, such as pineapple chunks, cilantro, onion, and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Al Pastor Burrito Bowl
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Mexico in a whole new way with this Al Pastor Burrito Bowl recipe. Inspired by traditional tacos al pastor, this dish combines tender pork, tangy pineapple, and spicy chilies in a hearty bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can pineapple chunks (14 oz)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups cooked white rice
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Cook the pork shoulder in a Dutch oven until tender, about 2-3 hours.
5. Assemble the burrito bowl by placing cooked rice at the bottom, followed by sliced pork, pineapple chunks, and optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (pork cooking time) + 10-15 minutes for assembly
Grilled Al Pastor Pork Chops
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with these grilled pork chops marinated in a sweet and spicy al pastor-inspired mixture. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the pork chops to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove pork chops from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Al Pastor Stuffed Bell Peppers
These vibrant bell peppers are filled with the bold flavors of al pastor, a popular Mexican dish. The combination of tender beef, crunchy pineapple, and tangy onions is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas, torn into pieces
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add pineapple, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the al pastor mixture and top with torn tortilla pieces.
6. Brush peppers with vegetable oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegan Jackfruit Al Pastor Tacos
Transform traditional Mexican flavors into a plant-based delight with these Vegan Jackfruit Al Pastor Tacos. A fusion of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 can jackfruit in brine (drained and chopped)
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced onion, cilantro, sliced avocado, sour cream (or vegan alternative)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
2. Add chopped jackfruit, pineapple juice, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until jackfruit is tender.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning the jackfruit mixture onto a tortilla and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Al Pastor Quesadillas with Pineapple Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with these vibrant Al Pastor quesadillas, filled with juicy pork and crispy pineapple salsa. Perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/2 cup cooked al pastor meat (or carnitas), shredded
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Pineapple Salsa ingredients: see below
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together al pastor meat, queso fresco, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle 1/4 of the meat mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Serve with Pineapple Salsa.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Al Pastor Nachos with Guacamole
Al Pastor Nachos with Guacamole Recipe
This recipe combines the bold flavors of al pastor (shepherd’s style) tacos with the comfort of a warm nacho platter, topped off with creamy guacamole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 bag of tortilla chips (your preferred brand and quantity)
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or your preferred blend)
– 1 can (16 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Guacamole recipe below
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chicken thighs, orange juice, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the chicken mixture over the tortilla chips, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Top with black beans, salt to taste, and fresh cilantro leaves.
Guacamole:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve with nachos!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Al Pastor Tostadas with Pickled Onions
Elevate your taco Tuesday game with these vibrant Al Pastor Tostadas, topped with tangy pickled onions and a hint of lime. This flavorful Mexican-inspired snack is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pickled Onions (recipe below)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced pork and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill the pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tostadas with grilled pork, pickled onions, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Pickled Onions:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Let sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Al Pastor Sliders with Chipotle Mayo
These bite-sized sliders pack a flavorful punch, combining the classic Mexican street food al pastor with creamy chipotle mayo. Perfect for parties or snacks, these mini masterpieces are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 slider buns
– Chipotle mayo (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add sliced pork and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook pork for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast slider buns on the grill or in a toaster.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a few slices of grilled pork onto each bun, followed by chipotle mayo (see below).
Chipotle Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including marinating time)
Al Pastor Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the vibrant flavors of al pastor (shepherd’s style) with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. The result is a unique and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup al pastor seasoning blend (or homemade mixture of chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and coriander)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. While the sweet potatoes are baking, mix together the al pastor seasoning blend, onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño pepper in a bowl.
4. Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, slice them open and fill with the al pastor mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including baking time)
Al Pastor Enchiladas with Red Sauce
A Mexican-inspired twist on traditional enchiladas, these flavorful bites are filled with tender pork cooked in a sweet and spicy al pastor-style marinade, wrapped in tortillas, and smothered in a rich red sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup al pastor seasoning (or substitute with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and paprika)
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Red enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together al pastor seasoning, orange juice, and garlic. Add the sliced pork and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Fry tortillas in hot oil until pliable. Drain on paper towels.
3. Wrap each tortilla with a few slices of marinated pork, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Place the wrapped tortillas seam-side down in a baking dish and cover with red enchilada sauce. Top with shredded cheese, if desired.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Al Pastor Breakfast Hash
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast hash! This Al Pastor-inspired dish combines the savory spices of Mexican street food with crispy potatoes, sweet onions, and juicy sausage.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1/4 cup Al Pastor-style sausage, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss potatoes and onions with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
4. Add crumbled sausage to the baking sheet and stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until sausage is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Al Pastor Meatballs with Adobo Glaze
This recipe combines the classic flavors of al pastor (shepherd) with the richness of adobo glaze, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Adobo glaze (see below)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the adobo glaze by mixing together equal parts of water and soy sauce with a pinch of garlic powder.
6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and brush with adobo glaze. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Al Pastor Grilled Cheese Sandwich
This sweet and savory sandwich combines the flavors of Mexico’s popular al pastor tacos with the comfort of a grilled cheese. The result is a unique and delicious twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1/4 cup of al pastor-style chicken, shredded (see note)
– 1/4 cup of crumbled queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon of pineapple jam
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with shredded al pastor chicken, crumbled cheese, and a dollop of pineapple jam.
5. Place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Al Pastor Empanadas with Cilantro Lime Crema
Experience the flavors of Mexico with these tender empanadas filled with juicy al pastor meat, crispy and golden. Serve with a dollop of creamy cilantro lime crema for an unforgettable snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cooked in a mixture of chili powder, garlic, onion, cumin, and pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon crema (Mexican sour cream)
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). If using homemade dough, follow package instructions for thawing and rising.
2. Roll out the empanada dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into desired shapes.
3. Place a spoonful of the al pastor meat in the center of each empanada.
4. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
5. Fry empanadas in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve with cilantro lime crema, made by mixing together chopped cilantro, lime juice, and crema.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 mouthwatering Al Pastor recipes! From classic tacos and skewers to innovative pizzas, burritos, and more, this collection has something for every flavor lover. Whether you’re a meat-eater or vegan, there’s an Al Pastor dish here that’s sure to become a new favorite. With authentic flavors and delicious twists, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the streets of Mexico.
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