Did you know that tacos al pastor are inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine?

While the beloved taco comes in several variations, tacos al pastor stand out as a delicious fusion of Middle Eastern and Mexican culinary traditions. You may be surprised to learn that this popular street food originated in the 1930s when Lebanese immigrants arrived in Puebla, Mexico, bringing with them the tradition of shawarma – a Mediterranean dish of vertically grilled lamb.

These immigrants first created the tacos árabes, using lamb meat cooked on vertical skewers called trompos, served in flour tortillas. Over time, this dish evolved to suit local tastes and ingredients, transforming into what we now know as tacos al pastor. The most significant change was the shift from lamb to pork, as well as the adoption of Mexican spices and corn tortillas instead of flour. The meat requires 3-4 hours of marinating to develop its characteristic flavor profile, similar to the slow-cooking methods used in traditional Barbacoa.

The preparation of tacos al pastor is a demonstration of this cultural fusion. The pork is marinated in a bright red blend of chiles like guajillo and ancho, combined with spices like cumin and coriander. Achiote gives the meat its distinctive red color, while citrus juices from oranges and pineapple add moisture and flavor.

The meat is then stacked on a vertical spit, cooking slowly as it turns, creating a crispy exterior while retaining its tenderness on the inside.

What started in Puebla quickly spread to Mexico City and beyond, becoming a beloved national dish. You’ll now find these tacos all over Mexico, topped with chopped onions, fresh cilantro, and various salsas. Some versions include sliced pineapple, which adds a sweet contrast to the salty meat.

The dish has even returned to the Middle East, where you can find “Mexican shawarma” — a culinary journey that comes full circle.

This fusion of cultures shows how immigration can create something entirely new and uniquely delicious. When you enjoy your next taco al pastor, you’re not just eating a Mexican dish – you’re getting a taste of a piece of cultural history that spans continents, combining the best of Middle Eastern cooking techniques with Mexican flavors and ingredients.