Tacos al Pastor
Instructions
- 1
Remove stems and seeds from guajillo chiles. Toast in a dry pan for 30 seconds, then soak in hot water for 15 minutes until softened.
- 2
In a blender, combine drained chiles, pineapple juice, vinegar, garlic, cumin, oregano, achiote paste, and salt. Blend until smooth to create the marinade.
- 3
Slice pork shoulder into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. Place in a bowl and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
- 4
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook marinated pork in batches, turning frequently, until edges are crispy and charred, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
- 5
In the same pan, quickly char the pineapple pieces until caramelized on the edges, about 2 minutes.
- 6
Warm corn tortillas on a griddle or directly over a gas flame until pliable and lightly charred.
- 7
Chop the cooked pork into smaller bite-sized pieces. Fill each tortilla with pork, top with charred pineapple, diced onion, and cilantro.
- 8
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.
Chef's Note
"The key to authentic al pastor flavor is the marinade time - don't rush it! For an even more authentic touch, stack the marinated pork on skewers and cook it vertically near high heat, rotating to get those crispy edges."