Venice is definitely a city for one's bucket list

 

Tacos al Pastor is a beloved Mexican street food that combines marinated pork, pineapple, and a blend of spices. This flavorful and juicy taco is a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and smoky. Here's how to make it at home.

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Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 2 pounds pork shoulder, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from chipotle peppers)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tacos:

• 12 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup pineapple, finely chopped
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)
• Salsa (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Marinate the Pork:

   • In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the marinade: pineapple juice, adobo sauce, chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, cloves, garlic, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
   • Add the sliced pork to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse the meat.

2. Cook the Pork:

   • Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated pork slices onto skewers, stacking them on top of each other.
   • Grill the pork for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Alternatively, you can cook the pork in a large skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until it's cooked through and caramelized.

3. Prepare the Toppings:

   • While the pork is cooking, chop the pineapple and onion. Set them aside for topping the tacos.
   • Warm the corn tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until soft and warm.

4. Assemble the Tacos:

   • Slice the grilled pork into small pieces.
   • Place a few pieces of the cooked pork on each tortilla. Top with fresh chopped pineapple, onion, and cilantro.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the tacos with lime wedges and salsa on the side. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos for an added zesty kick.

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These Tacos al Pastor bring the taste of Mexico straight to your table. The marinated pork, paired with the sweetness of pineapple and the freshness of cilantro, offers a delightful contrast of flavors. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a taco night with friends!