Why We Love This Homemade Salsa Al Pastor Recipe
Salsa what? Ok… Have you ever ordered Tacos Al Pastor at a Mexican restaurant? They are tacos prepared in a similar style to Shawarma, a middle eastern barbecue, brought to Mexico by immigrants. The unique flavors and cooking style has become a beloved fusion-food staple in Mexico and across Mexican restaurant menus worldwide. The last time I made Tacos Al Pastor for my family, I had some leftover marinade in the fridge. My kids asked if it was salsa and before I had time to answer, they were dipping up the marinade with chips, stating this was possibly my best homemade salsa yet! Of course then I had to taste it with tortilla chips. The intense flavor combination that makes Al Pastor chicken and pork so delicious, tastes fabulous on its own… And with chips! So, I whipped up a slightly altered version of my original marinade , with a better texture for salsa. This homemade salsa variation is rich and perky, with deep smoky notes from three types of dried chiles, and the sweet tangy taste of pineapple.
Ingredients You Need
Chiles – dried ancho chiles, dried guajillo chiles, and chipotle chilles in adobo sauce Apple Cider Vinegar – for a tangy flavor, you can replace it with limes instead if preferred. Cumin – adds a depth of flavor Salt – to taste Pineapple – for a fresh, bright addition Onion – white or sweet onion Tomatoes – fresh roma tomatoes Cilantro – a must for homemade salsa Sugar – add this if you need to balance out the spicy, bold flavor
Pro Tip! Reserve some of the juices from soaking the dried chiles to add extra flavor to the salsa.
How to Make Salsa Al Pastor
Bring a kettle of water to a boil. Place the 4 dried chiles in a large bowl. Pour boiling water over the top. Cover chiles with a small plate, to push the chiles down into the water. Steep for at least 10 minutes. Remove the chiles from the hot water. Remove the seeds and stems. Then place the chile peppers in a food processor. Add 1/2 cup of the chile water into the food processor. Add all remaining ingredients. Leave the sugar out, if you are unsure whether you want to add it. Pulse the salsa ingredients together until mostly smooth. Taste, then add salt, pepper and sugar as needed.
Serving Suggestions
This salsa is amazing with tortilla chips, but can be served with so many different meals, too! Try serving your salsa al pastor with some of my favorites:
Al Pastor Tacos Carne Asada Shredded Chicken Tacos Navajo Fry Bread Corn Tortillas Taco Salad Bowls Beef Enchiladas Carne Asada Tacos
Looking for More Fresh Homemade Salsa Recipes? Be Sure to Also Try:
Best Homemade Tomato Salsa Creamy Avocado Salsa Verde Grilled Chipotle Peach Salsa Strawberry Habanero Salsa Candied Bacon Corn Salsa Buffalo Cowboy Caviar
Share This Recipe With Friends!
