Craving a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal that's also quick to prepare? Look no further than this vibrant Carne De Puerco En Salsa Verde recipe! This classic Mexican dish features tender pork simmered in a bright, herbaceous salsa verde, making it a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights, easily adaptable to your preferences, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. This easy recipe is perfect for adding to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can tomatillos, drained and rinsed
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and roughly chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 cup cilantro, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Bloom the Spices
Add the cumin and oregano to the pot and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to release their aromas. This simple step significantly enhances the flavor of your salsa verde.
Step 3: Build the Salsa Verde
Add the tomatillos, jalapeños, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the tomatillos are softened.
Step 4: Add the Pork
Add the cubed pork shoulder to the pot. Increase the heat to medium, then reduce to low again once the pork is heated through. Cover the pot and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the pork is very tender and easily shreds with a fork. You can also use a slow cooker for this step; just cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once the pork is cooked through, stir in the lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Shred the pork using two forks directly in the pot. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve your delicious Carne De Puerco En Salsa Verde hot with rice, tortillas, or your favorite sides.
Cooking Tips for the Best Carne De Puerco:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the pork in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust the spice: Control the heat level by adjusting the amount of jalapeños used. For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping.
- Don't overcook the pork: Overcooked pork will be dry and tough. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) before shredding.
- Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or potatoes for a more complete meal.
- Use different chilies: Experiment with other chilies like poblanos or ancho chilies for a different flavor profile.
- Make it a taco filling: Use the shredded pork to fill tacos for a fun and flavorful meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Carne De Puerco En Salsa Verde recipe offers a fantastic blend of delicious flavors and simple preparation. It’s a perfect example of how healthy meals can also be incredibly satisfying and easy to make, making it a must-try for both experienced cooks and those just starting their culinary journey. Enjoy!