(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for HomePressureCooking.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)
Whipping up authentic Al Pastor at home was always a thrill for me. Let me share how a twist of pineapple, savory pork, and spices come together in this magical dish. One taste of this Instant Pot recipe, and you're transported to the streets of Mexico. Chunks of pineapple give sweetness while chipotle peppers add a kick, perfectly blending with the tender pork. Isn't it a mouthwatering scene? I bet you're already picturing it. So, let's get started on this culinary adventure!
Ingredients for Instant Pot Al Pastor
- Pork shoulder: Tender and flavorful cut of meat that becomes juicy and succulent when cooked in the instant pot.
- Onion: Adds a sweet and savory flavor base to the al pastor marinade, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Garlic: Infuses a rich and aromatic taste to the marinade, providing depth of flavor to the al pastor pork.
- Pineapple chunks: Brings a natural sweetness and acidity to balance the savory flavors in the al pastor recipe.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: Adds a smoky and spicy kick to the marinade, giving the al pastor pork a bold flavor.
- Chili powder: Provides a warm and earthy heat to the marinade, adding a depth of flavor to the al pastor pork.
- Ground cumin: Offers a warm and nutty flavor to the marinade, enhancing the overall taste of the al pastor pork.
- Dried oregano: Infuses a robust and earthy flavor to the marinade, complementing the other spices in the al pastor recipe.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy and acidic element to the marinade, balancing the sweetness of the pineapple and richness of the pork.
- Orange juice: Provides a citrusy brightness to the marinade, adding a refreshing and zesty flavor to the al pastor pork.
- Vegetable oil: Used for browning the pork and sautéing the ingredients, adding richness and depth of flavor to the al pastor.
Essential Tools for Making This Instant Pot Recipe
- Instant Pot: Essential for pressure cooking the pork quickly while infusing flavors for a tender and flavorful result.
- Blender: Needed to blend the marinade ingredients into a smooth sauce for marinating the pork slices effectively.
Instant Pot Al Pastor Recipe: Flavorful & Fast
This Instant Pot Al Pastor recipe is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a classic Mexican dish. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or over rice.
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder thinly sliced
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks drained
- 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Read more: Instant Pot Salsa Recipe: Flavorful & Fast
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine onion, garlic, pineapple, chipotle peppers, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, vinegar, and orange juice. Blend until smooth.
- Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat vegetable oil. Add pork slices and brown on all sides.
- Pour the blended marinade over the pork in the Instant Pot.
- Close the lid, set to high pressure for 25 minutes.
- Once done, do a quick release and shred the pork using two forks.
- Serve the Al Pastor pork in tacos, burritos, or over rice.
Notes:
This recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of traditional Al Pastor without the need for a spit or grill.
Nutrition value:
Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 35gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 780mgFiber: 3gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg
Keywords:
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Read more: Instant Pot Biryani Recipe: Flavorful & Fast
Prep and Storage Tips for Instant Pot Al Pastor
Make Ahead Instructions
- Marinate the pork in the al pastor sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- After cooking, store the shredded al pastor pork in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Allow the cooked al pastor pork to cool completely.
- Place the pork in a freezer-safe container or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Pineapple juice contains an enzyme called bromelain that helps tenderize the pork in this instant pot al pastor recipe.
Common Questions About Making Al Pastor in the Instant Pot
FAQ:
Can I use a different cut of pork for this Instant Pot Al Pastor recipe?
Yes, you can use pork loin or pork tenderloin as alternatives to pork shoulder.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
Absolutely, you can reduce the amount of chipotle peppers or chili powder to make it less spicy.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the pork in advance for even more flavor.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked Al Pastor pork for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
Can I substitute fresh pineapple for canned pineapple?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but canned pineapple is more commonly used for convenience and consistent flavor.
0 thoughts on “Instant Pot Al Pastor Recipe: Flavorful & Fast”