Mexican Tacos al Pastor on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Experience the ultimate Tacos al Pastor made entirely on the Arteflame grill. Sear marinated pork on the center grate at 1,000°F, then let it caramelize beautifully on the flat top. Paired with fresh pineapple and warm tortillas, this dish delivers bold, authentic Mexican flavors with every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork shoulder, thinly sliced
• 1/2 pineapple, sliced
• 2 tbsp achiote paste
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 12 small corn tortillas
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build.
5. Wait approximately 20 minutes for the grill to heat up.

Step 2: Marinate the Pork

1. In a bowl, mix achiote paste, orange juice, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Coat the pork slices thoroughly with the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Step 3: Sear the Pork

1. Add butter to the center grill grate.
2. Place pork slices on the 1,000°F center grate and sear for about 1-2 minutes per side.
3. Move the seared pork to the flat griddle cooktop to continue cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Pineapple

1. Place pineapple slices on the flat griddle cooktop.
2. Grill until caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 5: Heat the Tortillas

1. Place tortillas on the outer edge of the flat cooktop.
2. Warm for about 30 seconds per side.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

1. Slice the grilled pork and pineapple into bite-sized pieces.
2. Fill tortillas with pork and pineapple.
3. Top with chopped cilantro and diced onion.
4. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tips

• Remove the pork from the grill when it reaches 135°F; it will continue cooking to 150°F.
• For extra smokiness, use mesquite or hickory wood.
• Slicing the pork thinly ensures faster and even cooking.
• Use fresh tortillas for the best texture and taste.
• Pressing the tortillas lightly onto the cooktop will give them a slight char.

Variations

1. Spicy Tacos al Pastor: Add 1 tsp chili powder and 1 diced jalapeño to the marinade.
2. Citrus Infused Tacos: Use lemon juice instead of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
3. Garlic Herb Tacos: Add 1 tbsp fresh chopped cilantro and 1 tsp thyme to the marinade.
4. Sweet and Smoky Tacos: Drizzle with honey after grilling for a caramelized finish.
5. Cheesy Tacos: Melt shredded Oaxaca cheese onto the tortillas before assembling the tacos.

Conclusion

Grilling Tacos al Pastor on the Arteflame brings out incredible flavors by searing at 1,000°F and caramelizing on the flat cooktop. This method guarantees juicy, smoky, and delicious tacos every time.

Best Pairings

• Fresh mango salsa
• Grilled corn with butter and cotija cheese
• Classic Mexican rice
• Refreshing hibiscus agua fresca
• Cold Mexican lager or margarita