Homemade Al Pastor Seasoning Mix (McCormick Copycat)
Description
A 5-minute copycat of the McCormick Al Pastor Seasoning Mix packet — smoky ancho, sweet-tangy pineapple notes, and that signature red-orange color, made with pantry spices. One batch seasons 1 pound of pork or chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons ancho chile powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¾ teaspoon ground annatto, achiote, or substitute additional smoked paprika
- ¾ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon citric acid, or ½ teaspoon True Lime powder
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl or spice jar.
- Whisk (or shake, lid on) for about 30 seconds, until the blend is a uniform brick red with no streaks.
- Use immediately or store airtight. One batch seasons 1 pound of meat.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
Notes
To make al pastor: Toss 1 lb thin-sliced pork tenderloin (or boneless chicken thighs) with 1 tbsp oil, 1 tbsp pineapple juice (optional but recommended), and the full batch of seasoning. Sear in a hot skillet 5–7 minutes, or air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway, until pork reaches 145°F (chicken 165°F). Serve in warm tortillas with diced pineapple, cilantro, onion, and lime.
Notes
- One batch = one packet. About 2½ tablespoons per pound of meat.
- Big batch: Multiply by 4 to fill a half-pint jar; label it "2½ tbsp = 1 lb."
- No annatto? Use extra smoked paprika — slightly less color, same great flavor.
- Heat it up: Add ¼–½ tsp cayenne or chipotle powder.
- Storage: Airtight jar, cool dark cabinet, best within 6 months. Use a dry spoon.
- Nutrition is an estimate for the seasoning only.
Nutrition
Serving: 1ServingCalories: 15kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 0.4gFat: 0.3gSaturated Fat: 0.05gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 53mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 552IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 1mg