Mexican tacos al pastor
Tacos al pastor are a beloved Mexican street food featuring marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, often topped with pineapple, onions, and cilantro on small corn tortillas. The dish is a fusion of Mexican and Lebanese culinary traditions, originating in central Mexico, particularly Mexico City, in the early 20th century.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
A typical serving of tacos al pastor is high in protein from the pork and provides a good source of iron and B vitamins, though it can be moderate in fat depending on the cut of meat and preparation. Two to three tacos generally range from 300 to 500 calories, with carbohydrates coming mainly from the corn tortillas.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 45 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Potassium | 380 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 7 mg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Zinc | 3 mg |
Per 3 tacos (approx. 240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The dish's unique cooking method, using a vertical spit called a 'trompo,' was inspired by Lebanese shawarma and adapted with local Mexican spices and pineapple, showcasing a delicious example of culinary migration and fusion.
