What You Need to Know
The Maillard reaction occurs when cooked meat is mixed with tomato-based sauce, resulting in a complex flavor profile. The acidity in the tomato sauce helps to break down proteins in the meat, tenderizing it. The tortillas are warmed on a dry griddle or in a microwave to make them pliable.
Steps
- 1.
Tacos al Pastor (Mexico City): Thinly sliced pork marinated in achiote and pineapple, cooked on a vertical spit
- 2.
Tacos de Carnitas (Michoacán): Slow-cooked pork confit in its own fat, then crisped
- 3.
Tacos de Pescado (Baja California): Beer-battered fish with crisp cabbage slaw in warm tortillas
The Science
Primary Reaction
Maillard reaction