Are you craving a dish that's both comforting and exciting? Look no further! This Pork Green Chile recipe is a flavor explosion that's surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this recipe delivers tender pork simmered in a vibrant, spicy green chile sauce. Get ready to experience the best of Southwestern flavors in the comfort of your own kitchen! It's one of those delicious dishes that's surprisingly easy to make, making it ideal for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4-6 fresh green chiles, roughly chopped (adjust to your spice preference; Hatch chiles are fantastic!)
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel works great)
- 1 (15-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Searing the Pork
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season pork cubes generously with salt and pepper. Sear the pork in batches, ensuring each cube is browned on all sides. This step adds incredible depth of flavor. Remove the seared pork and set aside.
Step 2: Building the Flavor Base
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Simmering the Chili
Add the chopped green chiles, diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), fire-roasted diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika to the pot. Stir well to combine. Return the seared pork to the pot.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together!
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Once the pork is tender, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Stir the shredded pork back into the chili. Stir in the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serving Suggestions:
This Pork Green Chile is delicious on its own, served with warm tortillas, rice, or alongside your favorite sides. Consider topping with a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema, shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of fresh onions for extra flavor and texture. It also makes fantastic leftovers!
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chiles according to your preference. For a milder dish, use fewer chiles or milder varieties. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Pork Substitute: You can substitute the pork shoulder with chicken thighs or even beef chuck roast for a different flavor profile. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Slow Cooker Option: This recipe is easily adaptable for a slow cooker. Sear the pork as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Make it a Meal Prep Wonder: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Enjoy!