Tacos Al Pastor- Authentic Mexican Flavor

Prep20 min + 2 hr marinating
Cook15 min
Serves4
DifficultyEasy

Few things feel more Mexican than tacos al pastor.

A warm corn tortilla. Juicy pork sliced straight from the trompo. Caramelized edges, fresh onion and cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and that little piece of pineapple on top.

Simple, bold, and packed with flavor.

And while we'll always love a classic taco al pastor just the way it is, sometimes your taco is asking for one more thing: a little extra crunch and heat.

That's where Don Chilio comes in.

What Makes a Taco Al Pastor?

Al pastor is one of Mexico's most iconic taco styles, known for its layers of marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, or trompo. As the outside gets beautifully caramelized, thin slices are shaved directly onto a warm corn tortilla.

Then come the essentials: chopped onion, fresh cilantro, pineapple, lime, and your favorite salsa.

Every taquería has its own way of doing things, but the magic is always in the combination of smoky, savory, tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors coming together in one bite.

Your Taco, But With More Crunch

Once your tacos are assembled, it's time for the finishing touch.

Add a spoonful of Don Chilio Flamin' Habanero Chili Crisp right on top.

Made with real Mexican chiles and 100% olive oil, our Chili Crisp brings a delicious layer of crunch, bold flavor, and habanero heat to your tacos.

The result?

A classic taco al pastor with an extra kick that makes every bite even more craveable. 🌶️

🌶️ Don Chilio Pro Tip

Not sure how much heat you want?

Start with a little Chili Crisp and work your way up. Or skip straight to your perfect spice level.

👉 Find Your Heat and take our Heat Quiz to discover which Don Chilio flavor is made for you.

Make Taco Night Spicy

You don't need to reinvent a classic to make it your own.

Sometimes, all it takes is one extra spoonful of your favorite Don Chilio Chili Crisp.

Because authentic Mexican tacos deserve authentic Mexican chiles. 🌮🇲🇽

And if you're looking for the perfect heat for your next taco night, Find Your Heat and let us do the spicy matchmaking.

Tacos, but doing it spicy. Just Try It! 🌶️

Instructions

Make the Al Pastor Marinade Start by preparing the marinade that gives al pastor its signature color and flavor. Blend achiote paste, dried guajillo chiles, garlic, white vinegar, fresh orange juice, oregano, cumin, brown sugar, and salt until smooth. The combination of earthy chiles, citrus, warm spices, and achiote creates that unmistakable al pastor flavor.
Marinate the Pork Place the thinly sliced pork shoulder in a bowl and pour the marinade over it. Coat every piece really well, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. If you have the time, let it marinate overnight for even more flavor.
Get That Al Pastor Flavor Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated pork in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let it brown and caramelize until the edges get slightly crispy. That caramelized texture is everything.
Warm Your Tortillas Heat your corn tortillas on a hot skillet or griddle until warm, soft, and slightly toasted around the edges. Keep them warm while you prepare the rest of your tacos.
Build Your Tacos Grab your warm corn tortillas and pile on the al pastor. Top with diced pineapple, fresh onion, and cilantro. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime.
Bring the Heat 🔥 Now for the Don Chilio upgrade. Add a generous spoonful of Flamin' Habanero Chili Crisp right on top. You get real Mexican chiles, 100% olive oil, bold flavor, and that irresistible crunch in every bite.
The Final Bite Take a bite while everything is warm and the Chili Crisp is still sitting right on top. Sweet pineapple. Savory al pastor. Fresh lime. Crunchy chili goodness. That's taco night, upgraded!

← All recipes

Just Try It! Crunchy Spicy 100% Olive Oil Just Try It! Real Chiles Family Recipe