Al pastor Mexican chicken gyro 750 g

Origin and Name of Al Pastor

“Al Pastor” is a traditional Mexican dish that originated with the migration of Lebanese people to Mexico City in the 1920s and 1930s. The dish is based on the traditional Lebanese shawarma recipe, but was adapted using Mexican ingredients and flavors. “Al Pastor” means “the shepherd” in Spanish and refers to the way the meat is cooked on a vertical spit, reminiscent of the technique used for gyro or souvlaki.

Characteristics of Al Pastor

1. Marinating: The meat (usually pork, but also chicken) is marinated in a mixture of dried chilies, ground spices, vinegar, and pineapple juice. This gives Al Pastor its distinctive flavor, a balance of sweet and spicy.
2. Cooking on a Spit: Traditionally, the meat is cooked on a vertical spit, where it slowly roasts as it rotates, allowing it to cook evenly and become crispy on the outside.
3. Serving: The meat is thinly sliced and usually served in tortillas with chopped onion, cilantro, and pieces of fresh pineapple, creating the famous tacos al pastor.

Ways to Cook Al Pastor (Chicken)

• Oven Roasting: Alternatively, you can roast the marinated chicken in an oven at 180-200°C for about 30-40 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C.
• Pan-Frying: You can cook the marinated chicken in a pan over medium-high heat until crispy and it reaches the desired temperature.
• Grilling: Marinated chicken can also be grilled, giving it a smoky flavor.

Storage Temperature and Duration

• Refrigerated Storage: Marinated chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for 1-2 days at a temperature of 2-4°C.
• Freezing: It can be frozen at -18°C for up to 3 months. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator before use.
• Cooked Chicken: Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  
  

• Al Pastor Variations

  • Tacos al Pastor: The most common form of Al Pastor is tacos, in which the grilled meat is served in small tortillas with pieces of pineapple, onion, cilantro, and often a spicy sauce.
  • Gringas: Another popular variation is gringas, which are tacos al pastor with melted cheese in a flour tortilla, often grilled until crisp.
  • Tortas al Pastor: Al Pastor can also be served in a Mexican roll (bolillo) as a sandwich, alongside the classic taco accompaniments.

  
  

• Modern Spread and Recognition

  • International Popularity: Al Pastor has become popular not only in Mexico but also around the world, particularly in the United States, where Latin American communities have brought it into the mainstream. It is now widely available in Mexican restaurants and taquerias in many countries.
  • Culinary Innovations: In some restaurants, Al Pastor is being experimented with in new ways, such as adding exotic spices or using other types of meat, such as fish or seafood, while maintaining the marinating and cooking technique.

  
  

• Nutritional and Health Aspects

  • Benefits: Chicken Al Pastor is generally considered a healthier choice than pork, as it contains less fat and fewer calories. Using fresh pineapple not only adds flavor but also provides vitamin C and digestive enzymes that aid digestion.
  • Potential Issues: However, as mentioned, marinated meat can contain high levels of sodium, which may be a concern for people with hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions. It is important to watch your intake and adjust the salt levels during preparation.

  
  

• Side Dishes and Pairings

  • Side dishes: Traditional sides include black beans, rice, guacamole, and spicy sauces such as salsa verde or salsa roja.
  • Drinks: Al Pastor is often paired with refreshing drinks such as beer, margaritas, or even Mexican soft drinks like horchata.

Ingredients: chicken meat 70%, liquid seasoning 30% [vegetables (corn, beans, bell pepper), water, salt, rapeseed oil, spices, brandy vinegar, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, modified starch, sugar, spice extracts, caramel, milk protein, lactose.