Latin-inspired Rustic Tacos: A Flavorful Twist

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €2.45 · €1.23/serving

• 3 (2-ounce) pork cutlets, trimmed of excess fat (or substitute a 6-ounce boneless center-cut pork chop)Est. price €1.20–€2.50
• 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegarEst. price €0.02–€0.06
• 2 tablespoons fresh pineapple juiceEst. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1/2 teaspoon pimenton (smoked Spanish paprika)Est. price €0.03–€0.08
• 1/2 teaspoon crumbled dried pasilla or ancho chile (or substitute red pepper flakes)Est. price €0.04–€0.10
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt, plus more to tasteEst. price €0.01–€0.03
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepperEst. price €0.01–€0.03
• 1/2 cup fresh pineapple chunks, cut into 1/2-inch cubesEst. price €0.25–€0.60
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro leavesEst. price €0.15–€0.30
• 1 large shallot lobe, finely choppedEst. price €0.20–€0.45

Steps

1. 1

   To start, sandwich each pork cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound it until it reaches a thickness of approximately 1/8 inch. For boneless center-cut pork chops, lay them flat on the cutting board and carefully slice them horizontally into thirds. Proceed by placing each slice between plastic wrap layers and pounding them to an even 1/8-inch thickness.

2. 2

   In a large resealable plastic bag, mix together the vinegar, pineapple juice, pimenton, chile, salt, and pepper. Add the cutlets to the bag and ensure they are well coated with the marinade by massaging it into the meat. Remove any air from the bag before sealing it. Allow the cutlets to marinate for at least 10 minutes or up to an hour while you prepare the salsa and heat up the tortillas.

3. 3

   In a small bowl, mix together the diced pineapple, chopped cilantro, minced shallot, and finely chopped jalapeño. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and season with salt to your liking. Stir everything together until well combined.

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• Cultural note

  Rustic Tacos have cultural roots in Latin cuisine, combining traditional flavors like pimenton and fresh cilantro with a modern twist using ingredients like pineapple and shallots. Tacos are a popular street food in many Latin American countries, known for their versatility and bold flavors.

• Seasonal note

  This dish is perfect for summer when fresh pineapples, cilantro, jalapeños, and limes are in season, providing vibrant flavors and ingredients at their peak freshness.

• Health note

  These Latin-inspired rustic tacos offer a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and zinc. However, the dish is moderately high in sodium and saturated fat due to the use of pork cutlets and olive oil.