1 serving (150 grams) contains 250 calories, 20.0 grams of protein, 15.0 grams of fat, and 10.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
396.8 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 23.8 g | 30% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.9 g | 39% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 95.2 mg | 31% | |
| Sodium | 952.4 mg | 41% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15.9 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 5% | |
| Sugars | 3.2 g | ||
| protein | 31.7 g | 63% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 31.7 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 2.4 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 476.2 mg | 10% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Al pastor
Al Pastor is a popular Mexican dish rooted in Lebanese culinary traditions, introduced to Mexico by immigrants in the early 20th century. This vibrant taco filling typically consists of thinly sliced pork marinated in a blend of spices, achiote, pineapple juice, and chilies, then cooked on a vertical spit called a 'trompo.' Nutritively, Al Pastor is rich in protein from the pork, moderate in healthy fats, and contains essential vitamins like B6 and B12. The marinade also adds antioxidants from spices and vitamin C from pineapple. While flavorful and satisfying, it’s essential to monitor portion sizes due to its relatively high sodium content from seasonings.
Health Benefits
- High protein content (26-30g per serving), which supports muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in vitamin B6, aiding brain health and energy metabolism.
- Vitamin C from the pineapple marinade supports immune function and skin health.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store cooked Al Pastor in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving, ideally on a skillet for best texture.
Common Questions About Al pastor Nutrition
Is Al Pastor high in protein?
Al Pastor, typically made with marinated pork, is moderately high in protein, providing approximately 20-25 grams of protein per 4-ounce serving. It also includes fats due to the pork and marinade ingredients, making it a good option for a protein-focused meal.
Can I eat Al Pastor on a keto diet?
Yes, Al Pastor can fit into a keto diet if consumed without tortillas or carb-heavy sides. With a typical serving containing around 5-7 grams of carbs (due to marinades or spices), it aligns with the keto focus on low-carb, high-fat meals when paired with keto-friendly sides like guacamole or cheese.
Are there health benefits to eating Al Pastor?
Al Pastor provides key nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins from pork, which support energy metabolism and immune function. However, it is often high in sodium due to the spices and marinades, so individuals monitoring their sodium intake should consume it in moderation.
What is the recommended serving size for Al Pastor?
A standard serving size for Al Pastor is about 4 ounces, which contains roughly 200-250 calories, depending on seasoning and cooking method. For balanced portions, pair it with vegetables or a side salad to maintain nutritional variety and control portion sizes.
How does Al Pastor compare to other taco meats like carnitas or steak?
Al Pastor is typically leaner than carnitas due to the way it is cooked, with less fat rendered during preparation. Compared to steak, it often has slightly more seasoning and a distinct pineapple-based sweetness. Both options provide good protein, but Al Pastor is lower in fats compared to carnitas while delivering bold flavors.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025: Protein FoodsU.S. Department of Health and Human Services & U.S. Department of AgricultureDiscusses the role of protein in the diet, including pork as a common source of lean protein.
- The Nutritional Benefits of Consuming Pineapple (Ananas comosus)National Library of Medicine (PubMed)Highlights the nutritional value of pineapple, a core marinade ingredient in Al Pastor.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
