Deliciously Easy Stove-cooked Al Pastor Recipe
Al Pastor is a heavenly Mexican dish that bursts with flavors and aromas. Traditionally, it is cooked on a vertical spit outdoors. However, if you don’t have access to a spit or prefer to cook indoors, fear not! With this simple stove-cooked Al Pastor recipe, you can bring the delightful taste of this popular street food into your own kitchen. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of pork shoulder, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons of achiote paste
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of white vinegar
- 1/4 cup of pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup of orange juice
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the achiote paste, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Add the white vinegar, pineapple juice, and orange juice to the marinade. Stir until well combined.
- Place the thinly sliced pork shoulder in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring that each slice is coated evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove the marinated pork slices from the bag and shake off any excess marinade. Place the slices in the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the pork slices from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, thinly slice the cooked pork into bite-sized pieces.
- Serve your delicious homemade Al Pastor on warm tortillas with your favorite toppings such as fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Now, you can enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of Al Pastor without needing a specialized spit or an outdoor grill. This stove-cooked version allows you to savor this culinary delight any time you desire, right in the comfort of your own kitchen. So gather the ingredients, follow the simple steps, and indulge in the savory delight of homemade Al Pastor!
Have you tried cooking al pastor on the stove? Join our Cooking Techniques forum to share your experiences and discuss tips and tricks for making this delicious dish without a vertical rotisserie.
FAQ:
Can I cook al pastor on the stove instead of the traditional spit or grill?
Absolutely! While the traditional method involves cooking al pastor on a spit or grill, you can still achieve delicious results on your stove. It may require a few adjustments, but it’s definitely doable.
What cut of meat should I use to make al pastor on the stove?
The most common and flavorful cut of meat for al pastor is pork shoulder or pork butt. It has a good amount of fat, which helps keep the meat tender and juicy. Choose a boneless cut for easier cooking on the stove.
What are the key ingredients for making al pastor on the stove?
The essential ingredients for authentic al pastor marinade are dried guajillo or ancho chilies, achiote paste, pineapple juice, vinegar, garlic, onions, oregano, cumin, cloves, and salt. These flavors combine to create the signature taste of al pastor.
How long should I marinate the pork before cooking al pastor on the stove?
For the best flavor, it is recommended to marinate the pork in the al pastor marinade overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and tenderize it. However, if time is limited, marinating for at least 4-6 hours will still yield delicious results.
Can I use a regular skillet or pan to cook al pastor on the stove?
Yes, a regular skillet or pan can be used to cook al pastor on the stove. It’s important to use a pan that is large enough to fit the pork pieces without overcrowding. A cast-iron skillet works well for even heat distribution.
How long does it take to cook al pastor on the stove?
The cooking time for al pastor on the stove can vary depending on the thickness of the meat and the heat level. On average, it takes about 20-30 minutes per side to cook the marinated pork until it’s fully cooked and has a slightly charred exterior.
Can I make tacos or other dishes with the cooked al pastor from the stove?
Absolutely! Once the al pastor is cooked on the stove, it can be sliced or shredded and used as a filling for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or even as a topping for salads. The flavorful and tender meat works well in a variety of dishes.
Was this page helpful?
Read Next: How To Cook Fried Okra On The Stove
Related Articles
