A Flavorful Mexican Classic
Pork Chile Verde is a beloved Mexican dish known for its rich flavors and hearty texture. This comforting stew features tender pork cooked in a vibrant green chile sauce made from tomatillos and green chiles. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a festive gathering, Pork Chile Verde is sure to impress with its authentic taste and satisfying ingredients.
For a quick and flavorful way to cook this dish, check out this pressure cooker version, which retains all the deliciousness in half the time.
Ingredients
Gather these essential ingredients to create your perfect Pork Chile Verde:
-
Pork shoulder or pork butt – 3 lbs (for tender, juicy meat)
-
Tomatillos – 5 medium, husked and roasted
-
Green chiles – 2 jalapeños or poblano peppers
-
Yellow onion – 1 medium, chopped
-
Garlic cloves – 4, minced
-
Chicken broth – 3 cups
-
Cilantro – 1/4 cup, chopped
-
Cumin – 1 tsp
-
Oregano – 1 tsp
-
Lime juice – 1 tbsp
-
Salt and pepper – To taste
Preparation Method
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Pork Chile Verde:
-
Sear the Pork:
-
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a little oil and sear the pork on all sides until browned. This helps lock in the flavors.
-
-
Prepare the Sauce:
-
Roast the tomatillos and green chiles in the oven or on a grill for 10-15 minutes until they develop a little char.
-
Blend the roasted tomatillos, chiles, onion, garlic, and cilantro in a blender until smooth. For a more in-depth guide, you can check out this Chile Verde recipe.
-
-
Simmer the Pork:
-
Add the blended sauce to the pot with the pork. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2 hours until the pork is tender and can be easily shredded.
-
-
Season and Serve:
-
Once the pork is cooked, add cumin, oregano, lime juice, and salt to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
-
Tips and Tricks
-
Choose the Right Pork: Use pork shoulder or pork butt for the most tender, juicy results.
-
Adjust the Heat: Remove the seeds from the green chiles if you prefer a milder sauce. If you want to spice it up, add a few more jalapeños or use hotter chiles like serrano or Hatch.
-
Roasting the Vegetables: Ensure the tomatillos and chiles are properly roasted to bring out the smoky flavor that defines this dish.
Variations and Substitutions
-
Vegetarian Version: Swap out the pork for jackfruit or mushrooms to create a plant-based version that absorbs the green chile sauce beautifully.
-
Low-Carb Option: Serve this dish over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb meal.
-
Slow Cooker Option: For even more tender pork, use a slow cooker. Just add the seared pork and sauce to the slow cooker, set it on low, and let it cook for 6-8 hours.
Serving Suggestions
Pork Chile Verde is versatile and can be served in various ways:
-
Over Rice: Serve the stew over fluffy Mexican rice for a complete, satisfying meal.
-
Tacos or Burritos: Spoon the Chile Verde into tortillas for a hearty taco or burrito filling.
-
Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream, freshly chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime to balance the heat and add brightness.
-
Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh avocado salad or grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Pork Chile Verde is the perfect dish for any occasion, bringing a balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors. With its tender pork and flavorful green chile sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be afraid to customize the recipe to suit your tastes, whether by adjusting the spice level or using a different protein.
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe with your loved ones. Let us know how it turns out and share your own variations in the comments below!