Session 165 — Tacos al Pastor
← Block 35–36: Mexican Overview
Skill: Al pastor marinade (achiote paste base); achiote spice profile; stovetop vs. grill comal technique
Read first: Tacos al Pastor — Pati Jinich
SE reference: Tacos al Pastor — SE
What you're learning: Al pastor derives from Lebanese shawarma brought to Mexico in the 19th century and transformed with achiote paste, pineapple, and dried chiles. Pati's version uses a skillet sear with achiote adobo marinade — achievable at home without a vertical spit. The pineapple chunk broiled at the end (or grilled separately) is mandatory.
Full Meal: - Tacos al Pastor: pork, pineapple, white onion, cilantro, lime, corn tortillas - Refried beans alongside
🎥 Compare Notes: Tacos al Pastor — Rick Bayless Taco Manual — Rick Bayless demonstrates his al pastor method; compare your chile marinade, meat layering, and pineapple integration.