The Best Mexican Meat-Based Dishes for a Weekend Barbecue

When it comes to hosting a weekend barbecue, few cuisines offer the vibrant flavors and variety like Mexican cuisine. Meat-based dishes are at the heart of this tradition, making them an excellent choice for your next gathering. From savory marinated meats to rich salsas, Mexican barbecue is sure to impress your guests. Here are some of the best Mexican meat-based dishes to add to your weekend barbecue menu.

1. Tacos al Pastor
These delicious tacos feature marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, similar to shawarma. The marinade typically includes pineapple, chilies, and spices, which impart a mouthwatering sweetness and slight tang. Serve the sliced meat on soft corn tortillas with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for an authentic experience.

2. Carne Asada
Carne asada, or grilled beef, is a Mexican classic that’s perfect for the barbecue. Flank steak or skirt steak is marinated in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and spices, then grilled to perfection. Slice it thinly and serve with warm tortillas, guacamole, and pico de gallo for a fantastic meal.

3. Barbacoa
This dish traditionally involves slow-cooking beef, lamb, or goat in a pit, but you can achieve delicious results on the grill too. Rub the meat with a blend of spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder before wrapping it in banana leaves or foil and letting it cook until tender. Serve with tortillas and your favorite sauces for a festive touch.

4. Pollo Asado
Grilled chicken known as pollo asado is another crowd-pleaser. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of citrus juices, garlic, and various spices to give it a depth of flavor. Grill until the skin is crispy and the meat is juicy, then serve with a side of elote (Mexican street corn) for the ultimate barbecue feast.

5. Chorizo
Mexican chorizo, a spicy pork sausage, adds a burst of flavor to any barbecue. You can grill whole sausages or crumble the raw chorizo into a skillet on the grill for a tasty addition to tacos or nachos. Pair it with fresh cheese, salsa, and avocado for a mouthwatering combination.

6. Ribs with Mole Sauce
For something unique, consider grilling ribs coated in rich mole sauce. This complex sauce is made from various ingredients like chocolate, chilies, and nuts, creating a deep flavor profile that pairs perfectly with tender, smoky ribs. Offer extra mole sauce on the side for dipping, and watch your guests come back for more.

7. Pibil Style Pork
Cooking pork pibil style means marinating the meat in achiote paste and citrus before wrapping it in banana leaves and slow-roasting it on the grill. This method results in incredibly tender, flavorful meat. Shred the pork and serve it on tortillas with pickled red onions for a truly unforgettable dish.

8. Alambres
Alambres consist of skewered meat, typically beef or chicken, combined with bell peppers, onions, and cheese. These skewers are grilled to perfection, forming a delicious crust while keeping the inside juicy. Serve them with flour tortillas and your favorite toppings for an exciting barbecue option.

These Mexican meat-based dishes will surely elevate your weekend barbecue and delight your friends and family. With bold flavors and colorful presentations, each dish captures the essence of Mexican cuisine. Don’t forget to pair your meals with refreshing drinks like horchata or agua fresca to complete the experience. Happy grilling!