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
- Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
- Place the napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
- Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins.
- Light the napkins and allow the fire to build.
- Wait approximately 20 minutes for the grill to heat up.
Step 2: Marinate the Pork
- In a bowl, mix achiote paste, orange juice, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the pork slices thoroughly with the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 3: Sear the Pork
- Add butter to the center grill grate.
- Place pork slices on the 1,000°F center grate and sear for about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Move the seared pork to the flat griddle cooktop to continue cooking.
Step 4: Grill the Pineapple
- Place pineapple slices on the flat griddle cooktop.
- Grill until caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 5: Heat the Tortillas
- Place tortillas on the outer edge of the flat cooktop.
- Warm for about 30 seconds per side.
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
- Slice the grilled pork and pineapple into bite-sized pieces.
- Fill tortillas with pork and pineapple.
- Top with chopped cilantro and diced onion.
- 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
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Spicy Tacos al Pastor: Add 1 tsp chili powder and 1 diced jalapeño to the marinade.
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Citrus Infused Tacos: Use lemon juice instead of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
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Garlic Herb Tacos: Add 1 tbsp fresh chopped cilantro and 1 tsp thyme to the marinade.
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Sweet and Smoky Tacos: Drizzle with honey after grilling for a caramelized finish.
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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