Authentic Tacos al Pastor
Description
These authentic Tacos al Pastor feature tender pork marinated in smoky chilies, pineapple juice, and aromatic spices before being grilled to perfection. Served on warm corn tortillas with fresh pineapple, cilantro, onions, and lime, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality Mexican street tacos right from your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Marinade
For Serving
Optional
Instructions
Step 1
Toast the Chiles
Remove the stems and seeds from the guajillo and ancho chiles. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the chiles for 20–30 seconds per side until fragrant.
Estimated Time: 5 minutes
Avoid: Over-toasting the peppers.
Pro Tip: Don't let the chiles burn or the marinade will become bitter
Step 2
Blend the Marinade
Transfer the toasted chiles to hot water and soak for 10 minutes. Add the softened chiles to a blender with garlic, pineapple juice, orange juice, vinegar, achiote paste, vegetable oil, cumin, oregano, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
Blend until completely smooth.
Estimated Time: 10 minutes
Pro Tip: Strain the marinade if you want an extra silky texture.
Step 3
Marinate the Pork
Place the sliced pork shoulder into a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the meat and coat every piece thoroughly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Pro Tip: Overnight marination produces deeper flavor and more tender meat.
Step 4
Prepare the Grill
Preheat a grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat (about 425°F). Lightly oil the cooking surface.
Cook the pork in batches without overcrowding.
Allow each side to develop slight charring before turning.
Estimated Time: 12–15 minutes.
Step 5
Grill the Pineapple
Place the pineapple slices onto the hot grill.
Cook until caramelized and lightly charred.
Dice into small pieces.
Pro Tip: Fresh pineapple creates the sweetest flavor.
Step 6
Warm the Tortillas
Heat each tortilla for about 30 seconds per side on the grill or skillet.
Keep them wrapped in a clean towel until serving.
Step 7
Assemble the Tacos
Fill each tortilla with chopped grilled pork.
Top with:
- Grilled pineapple
- White onion
- Fresh cilantro
Serve immediately with lime wedges and salsa.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
Serving Size 2 tacos
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 470kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 21g33%
- Saturated Fat 7g35%
- Cholesterol 96mg32%
- Sodium 690mg29%
- Potassium 815mg24%
- Total Carbohydrate 31g11%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 7g
- Protein 38g76%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Make Ahead Tips
- Prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance.
- Marinate the pork overnight for the best flavor.
- Chop onions and cilantro a day ahead.
- Grill the pineapple earlier in the day and refrigerate.
- Warm tortillas immediately before serving.
- Cook the pork just before assembling the tacos for the juiciest results.


