Introduction
Pork Chile Verde is a flavorful and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends and family. This recipe features tender pork shoulder stewed in a vibrant green sauce made from salsa verde, poblanos, and spices. It’s easy to prepare and can be made in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it with warm tortillas or over rice for a complete meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pork Shoulder
2.5 pounds boneless pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into 2-inch cubes
Onion
1 medium yellow onion, diced
Poblano Peppers
2 poblano peppers, seeded and diced
Garlic
4 cloves garlic, minced
Ground Cumin
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Dried Oregano
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt
1 teaspoon salt
Black Pepper
½ teaspoon black pepper
Chicken Broth
1 cup chicken broth
Salsa Verde
16 ounces salsa verde
Diced Green Chiles
4 ounces diced green chiles
Fresh Cilantro
Chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6-7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Enjoy this delicious Pork Chile Verde with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Pork
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Transfer the browned pork to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and poblano peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker with the pork. Sprinkle the cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper over the pork and vegetables.
Step 4: Add Liquids
Pour the chicken broth, salsa verde, and diced green chiles over the pork mixture. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Mixture
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
Step 6: Shred the Pork
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Stir the shredded pork back into the sauce.
Step 7: Serve the Dish
Serve the pork chile verde hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro.
Notes
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs well with warm flour tortillas, rice, or beans.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving with additional toppings such as diced avocado, sour cream, or lime wedges for extra flavor.
Cook techniques
Searing
Searing the pork cubes in a skillet before transferring them to the slow cooker helps to create a rich, deep flavor and a nice crust on the meat.
Sautéing
Sautéing the diced onion and poblano peppers enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish.
Slow Cooking
Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together and the pork to become tender and easy to shred. It’s an ideal method for tougher cuts of meat like pork shoulder.
Shredding
Shredding the cooked pork ensures that it absorbs the sauce thoroughly, making each bite flavorful and tender.
Garnishing
Garnishing with fresh cilantro at the end adds freshness and a pop of color, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, other cuts like pork loin or pork belly can be used, but they may yield different textures and flavors.
What can I substitute for salsa verde?
You can use green enchilada sauce or your favorite homemade green sauce if salsa verde is unavailable.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more diced green chiles or chopped jalapeños for increased heat in the recipe.
What sides can I serve with pork chile verde?
Warm flour tortillas, rice, and beans are excellent sides that complement the dish well.
Conclusion
This pork chile verde is a delightful and hearty dish that combines tender, flavorful pork with the vibrant tastes of poblano peppers, garlic, and zesty salsa verde. The slow cooking method ensures that the pork becomes incredibly tender and absorbs all the spices and ingredients, making it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying dining experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Tacos de Chile Verde
Use the shredded pork to make delicious tacos, topped with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for an authentic flavor.
Pork Verde Burritos
Wrap the pork chile verde in large flour tortillas with rice, beans, and cheese for a savory burrito option.
Chilaquiles Verde
Incorporate the pork into crispy tortilla chips topped with salsa verde, cheese, and avocado for a tasty breakfast or brunch dish.
Pork Verde Enchiladas
Stuff corn tortillas with the shredded pork, roll them up, and smother with salsa verde and cheese before baking until bubbly.
Pork and Rice Bowls
Serve the shredded pork over a bed of rice, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado, and lime wedges for a hearty meal.
Pork Verde Nachos
Layer tortilla chips with the shredded pork, cheese, jalapeños, and fresh toppings for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.
