Name: Taco Pizza al Pastor with Tomatillo Salsa
Prep time: 4 h 45 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 4 h 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 14-ounce can of pineapple rings, with reserved juice; 1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar; 1 teaspoon of dried oregano; 1 teaspoon of paprika; 1 teaspoon of kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves; 3 cloves of garlic; 2 dried guajillo chiles, seeded; 1 pound of pork shoulder, thinly sliced (1/4 to 1/2 inch thick); Olive oil, for brushing; All-purpose flour, for rolling; 16 ounces of pizza dough, risen and prepared according to package instructions; About 6 tablespoons of Tomatillo Salsa (recipe follows); 6 ounces of queso fresco; 8 ounces of Oaxaca cheese; 1/2 bunch of fresh cilantro, roughly chopped; 1/2 Spanish onion, finely diced; 1 lime, cut into wedges; 1 pound of tomatillos, husked; 4 cloves of garlic; 1 jalapeno, seeded; 1/2 Spanish onion; Juice of 1 lime; 1/2 bunch of fresh cilantro; A splash of white distilled vinegar; Kosher salt; Tortilla chips, for serving

Introduction

Are you a fan of both tacos and pizza? If so, then you're in for a treat with this delicious fusion dish - Taco Pizza al Pastor with Tomatillo Salsa. Imagine the mouthwatering flavors of tender marinated pork, tangy tomatillo salsa, and all the classic taco toppings, combined on a crispy pizza crust. It's a match made in culinary heaven!

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

One of the reasons why Taco Pizza al Pastor with Tomatillo Salsa is so special is the incredible blend of flavors it offers. The marinated pork, known as al pastor, is seasoned with a variety of spices like paprika, cumin, and oregano, giving it a smoky and slightly spicy kick. The tomatillo salsa adds a refreshing tanginess, while the classic taco toppings like cheese, onions, and cilantro provide the perfect finishing touch.

The Art of Marinating

A crucial step in making Taco Pizza al Pastor with Tomatillo Salsa is marinating the pork. This process allows the flavors to infuse into the meat, resulting in tender and flavorful bites. Just like marinating meat for tacos, you'll need to let the pork soak in a mixture of spices, citrus juice, and vinegar for a few hours or overnight. The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavors will be!

A Crispy Base

Now, let's talk about the foundation of this amazing dish - the pizza crust. A good Taco Pizza al Pastor needs a crispy and sturdy crust that can hold all the toppings without getting soggy. You can either make your own pizza dough from scratch or use a store-bought crust. Just remember to pre-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings to ensure it stays nice and crispy.

The Tomato Tango

One of the highlights of this recipe is the tomatillo salsa. Tomatillos are small green fruits with a slightly tart flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory pork. To make the salsa, simply blend together tomatillos, jalapenos, onions, garlic, and cilantro. The result is a bright and zesty salsa that adds a burst of freshness to every bite of Taco Pizza al Pastor.

Assembling the Pizza

Now that you have all the components ready, it's time to assemble your Taco Pizza al Pastor. Start by spreading a generous amount of the tomatillo salsa on the pre-baked crust. Next, top it with the marinated pork, cheese, onions, and any other toppings you desire. Pop it back in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown. Once it's done, garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Taco Pizza al Pastor with Tomatillo Salsa is a culinary masterpiece that brings together the best of both tacos and pizza. The tender marinated pork, tangy tomatillo salsa, and classic taco toppings create a flavor explosion in every bite. So the next time you're craving something unique and delicious, give this fusion dish a try. It's guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use chicken instead of pork for this recipe?: Absolutely! While traditional al pastor is made with pork, you can easily substitute it with chicken for a different twist on the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make the tomatillo salsa ahead of time?: Yes, you can prepare the tomatillo salsa in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This will save you time when you're ready to assemble your Taco Pizza al Pastor.
Can I make the pizza dough from scratch?: Of course! Making your own pizza dough can be a fun and rewarding experience. There are plenty of recipes available online that will guide you through the process step by step.
Can I add additional toppings to the pizza?: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add your favorite toppings to the Taco Pizza al Pastor. Some popular options include sliced jalapenos, black olives, or even pineapple for a sweet and savory twist.
Is this dish spicy?: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your preference. If you enjoy a mild heat, you can reduce the amount of jalapenos or remove the seeds. For those who love spice, feel free to add extra jalapenos or even sprinkle some chili flakes on top.
Can I use a different type of cheese?: While the recipe calls for a Mexican cheese blend, you can certainly experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack would all work well in this dish.
Can I make mini-sized Taco Pizzas?: Absolutely! If you prefer individual-sized portions, you can divide the pizza dough into smaller rounds and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Mini Taco Pizzas are perfect for parties or gatherings.
Can I freeze the leftovers?: Yes, you can freeze the leftover Taco Pizza al Pastor. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container before freezing. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Can I use store-bought salsa instead of making my own tomatillo salsa?: While homemade tomatillo salsa adds a special touch to the Taco Pizza al Pastor, you can certainly use store-bought salsa as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to choose a salsa that complements the flavors of the dish.