How To Cook Al Pastor On Grill

The Art of Grilling Al Pastor: A Flavorful and Mouthwatering Delight

Grilling is an age-old cooking technique that never fails to bring out the best flavors in any dish. And when it comes to Mexican cuisine, one dish that truly shines is Al Pastor. Originating from the streets of Mexico City, this delightful meal combines marinated pork with a tantalizing blend of spices and aromatics. Today, we will guide you through the process of grilling Al Pastor, ensuring that you achieve the perfect balance of smoky, juicy, and savory flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of pork shoulder, thinly sliced
• 1 cup of pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup of white vinegar
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of achiote paste
• 2 tablespoons of dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
• 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the pineapple juice, white vinegar, minced garlic, achiote paste, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and ground cloves. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Add the thinly sliced pork shoulder to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is coated thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and skewer the slices onto metal or soaked wooden skewers, keeping them close together.
5. Brush the grill grates lightly with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the meat is nicely charred and cooked through.
6. Once the Al Pastor is cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and transfer the meat to a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
7. Serve the grilled Al Pastor on warm corn tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro and the toppings of your choice. Traditional options include finely diced onions, chopped pineapple, and a squeeze of lime.

With its vibrant colors and irresistible aroma, Al Pastor is sure to transport your taste buds to the streets of Mexico. The smoky char imparted by the grill, combined with the tanginess of pineapple and the depth of spices, creates a culinary experience that is unmatched. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and embark on an Al Pastor adventure that will leave you and your guests craving for more!

Now that you know the secret to grilling Al Pastor, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start mastering this delicious dish. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking to indulge in a flavor-packed meal, Al Pastor on the grill is guaranteed to impress. So fire up those coals and savor the taste of authentic Mexican cuisine in the comfort of your own backyard!