Mexican > Tacos > Microwave Tacos

Microwave Taco al Pastor Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup achiote paste
- 1 tbsp. dried oregano
- 1 tbsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. cumin
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- 1 lime, cut into wedges

Special equipment needed:
- Microwave-safe dish
- Microwave-safe plate

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe dish, mix together the pork, pineapple juice, white vinegar, achiote paste, oregano, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cover the dish with microwave-safe plastic wrap and microwave on high for 10 minutes.
3. Remove the plastic wrap and stir the pork. Microwave on high for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through.
4. Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by placing a spoonful of the pork on each tortilla. Top with cilantro, onion, and a squeeze of lime juice.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-17 minutes
Temperature:
Microwave on high
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 310
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 23g
Sodium: 710mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork can be substituted with chicken or beef.
- Pineapple juice can be substituted with orange juice.
- Achiote paste can be substituted with paprika.

Variations:
- Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Top with crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese.
- Serve with a side of refried beans.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to stir the pork halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Use a microwave-safe plate to warm the tortillas to prevent them from getting soggy.
- Double the recipe for a larger crowd.

Storage instructions:
Leftover pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the pork in the microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the tacos on a platter with a side of salsa and guacamole.

Garnishes:
Top with additional cilantro and diced pineapple.

Pairings:
Serve with a cold beer or margarita.

Suggested side dishes:
- Refried beans
- Mexican rice
- Grilled corn on the cob

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pork is not fully cooked after the initial 10 minutes, continue to microwave in 1-2 minute intervals until cooked through.
- If the tortillas become too soggy, try warming them on a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side.

Food safety advice:
- Be sure to use a microwave-safe dish and plate.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Food history:
Taco al pastor is a popular Mexican street food that originated in central Mexico in the 1920s. It is made with marinated pork that is cooked on a spit and served on a tortilla with pineapple, onion, and cilantro.

Flavor profiles:
The pork is marinated in a blend of spices and pineapple juice, giving it a sweet and savory flavor. The cilantro and onion add a fresh, herbaceous flavor, while the lime adds a bright, acidic note.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the tacos with a side of salsa and guacamole for dipping.

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Region: Mexican

Taste: Spicy, Tangy, Savory, Aromatic, Sweet