The Battle of Flavor: Adobada vs Al Pastor
– Al pastor and carne adobada are both popular fillings for tacos
– Both refer to pork marinated in a mix of chiles, vinegar, and spices
– Al pastor is cooked on a vertical spit called a trompo
– Adobada is cooked on a grill or braised on the stove
– Al pastor meat is piled high on a trompo, rotates and chars, and is shaved off for tacos
– Pineapple is often added to al pastor tacos
– Oregano and achiote are the main spices used
– Other common spices for al pastor include cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg
– Some areas in northern Mexico refer to al pastor as carne adobada
– Popular adobada recipes use pork shoulder
– Toasted chiles such as guajillo and ancho are blended with vinegar and oregano to make a paste for adobada
– Adobada can be served as tacos or with corn tortillas, and rice and beans can be served as accompaniments.