This pineapple pulled pork al pastor recipe is a mouthwatering twist on the classic Mexican dish. Tender, juicy pork shoulder is marinated in a flavorful blend of pineapple, spices, and chipotle peppers, then slow-cooked to perfection. The result is a sweet and smoky pulled pork that will leave your guests begging for more. Serve it on warm tortillas with your favorite toppings for a taco night to remember!
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork shoulder, boneless
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Directions
- In a blender, combine the pineapple juice, fresh pineapple chunks, garlic, onion, chipotle peppers, oregano, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, lime juice, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Blend until smooth to create the marinade.
- Place the pork shoulder in a large sealable plastic bag or a deep dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to marinate.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Sear the pork on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Pour the reserved marinade over the browned pork, cover the pot, and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Cook the pork for 3-4 hours, or until it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and transfer the pork to a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded pork to the pot and mix it with the juices. Place the pot back in the oven, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the pot from the oven and let the pulled pork al pastor rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the pineapple pulled pork al pastor on warm tortillas with your favorite toppings such as diced onions, cilantro, sliced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Interesting Facts
The al pastor cooking method is a variation of the shawarma or kebab technique brought to Mexico by Lebanese immigrants in the early 20th century.
The pineapple in the marinade helps tenderize the pork and adds a tangy sweetness to the dish.
If you don't have access to an oven, you can also cook the pork in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.
Leftover pineapple pulled pork makes great filling for quesadillas, burritos, or even sandwiches the next day.