Smoky Green Chile Pork Stew

Warm Up Your Soul with Smoky Green Chile Pork Stew!

As the chill of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Green Chile Pork Stew to warm you from the inside out. This Southwestern classic combines tender chunks of pork with the smoky heat of roasted green chilies, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue.

Imagine the aroma of simmering spices and slow-cooked pork wafting through your kitchen, drawing everyone to the table with eager anticipation. This hearty stew is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace, perfect for those cool evenings when you need something substantial to chase away the cold.

Originating from New Mexico, this stew has been a staple in Southwestern cuisine for generations. Its popularity has spread far beyond its roots, captivating food lovers with its bold flavors and satisfying texture. Pair it with a slice of warm cornbread or a crisp salad for a complete meal that will leave you feeling nourished and content.

Smoky Green Chile Pork Stew Recipe

Ingredients:

2 pounds pork shoulder, cubed

1 pound roasted green chilies, peeled, seeded and chopped (approx. 8 hatch green chilis or poblano chilis), adjust to taste

1 large onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

4 cups chicken broth

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)

2 potatoes, peeled and cubed

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork cubes and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Add onion and garlic to the pot. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Stir in green chilies, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, cumin, and oregano. Bring to a boil.

4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until pork is tender and easily shreds.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh cilantro just before serving.

Elevated cooking tip: For an extra layer of flavor, char the green chilies on an open flame or under the broiler before peeling and chopping. This will enhance their smoky taste and add depth to the stew.

Notes:

• For a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Serve with warm flour tortillas or cornbread for a complete meal.
• Leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 420 per serving

Protein: 35g

Fat: 22g

Carbohydrates: 25g

Fiber: 4g

Sodium: 580mg

Recommended serving size: 1.5 cups

Other Information

Prep time: 30 minutes

Cook time: 2 hours

Equipment used: Large pot or Dutch oven

Estimated cost per serving: $3.50

Total cost: $21.00 (6 servings)

Gluten-Free Options

This Green Chile Pork Stew is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. However, here are some additional gluten-free options and tips to enhance the recipe:

1. Thickening: Instead of using flour to thicken the stew if needed, use cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Mix 1 tablespoon of either with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir into the simmering stew.

2. Side dishes: Replace traditional wheat-based sides with gluten-free alternatives.

•    Serve with corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas
•    Make gluten-free cornbread using cornmeal and gluten-free flour blend
•    Offer gluten-free crackers for dipping

3. Toppings: Enhance your stew with gluten-free toppings.

•   Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar cheese
•   Sliced avocado
•   Sour cream

4. Vegetable variations: For more texture and nutrition, consider adding these gluten-free vegetables.

•    Diced zucchini
•    Corn kernels
•    Bell peppers

5. Grain addition: If you want to make the stew even heartier, add 1/2 cup of rinsed (GF) quinoa during the last 20 minutes of cooking for a gluten-free grain option.

6. Seasoning: Double-check that your spice blends and seasonings are certified gluten-free, as some may contain gluten as an anti-caking agent.

7. Beer option: If you want to add beer for depth of flavor, choose a gluten-free beer variety.

Remember to always check labels on all packaged ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free, as manufacturing processes can sometimes introduce cross-contamination.

With these options, you can easily adapt this Green Chile Pork Stew to suit a gluten-free diet without compromising on flavor or texture.

Keto Tips:

To make this dish keto-friendly substitute a firm squash for the potatoes, such as a Calabacita or other Mexican squash.

In Conclusion, Smoky Green Chile Pork Stew

Green Chile Pork Stew is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the American Southwest. Its combination of tender pork, smoky chilies, and aromatic spices creates a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or simply craving a flavorful meal, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Read about Texas South by Southwest Cuisine here.

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