Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out? Look no further than this authentic New Mexico Green Chile Stew! This delicious dish is a staple in Southwestern cuisine, known for its vibrant green chiles, savory spices, and tender chunks of meat. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe will guide you to create a truly memorable meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend feast, this green chile stew is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Let's dive into this flavorful adventure!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes (or pork shoulder for a richer flavor)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 2 (4-ounce) cans chopped green chiles, undrained (more or less, depending on your spice preference!)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the meat: Add the chicken (or pork) to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This step helps to develop deeper flavors in your stew.
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Simmer the stew: Pour in the chicken broth, undrained green chiles, undrained diced tomatoes, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the chicken (or pork) is cooked through and tender. For pork, you may need to simmer for a longer period, up to 1.5-2 hours, until very tender.
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Adjust and serve: Taste the stew and adjust seasonings as needed. If it's too thick, add a little more broth. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender to partially puree the stew. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice level: Adjust the amount of green chiles and cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your preference. For a milder stew, start with one can of green chiles and omit the cayenne pepper.
- Meat alternatives: Substitute the chicken or pork with beef, turkey, or even vegetarian alternatives like firm tofu or mushrooms.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables such as potatoes, corn, or beans. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 (depending on meat choice and additions)
- Protein: 25-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
This simple recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this taste of New Mexico right in your own kitchen! From healthy meals and quick dinner ideas to homemade cooking and delicious dishes, this recipe covers all the bases for the best recipes. Enjoy!