Pork Green Chili

Pork Green Chili, also known as Chile Verde, is a rich and flavorful Southwestern dish made with tender chunks of pork simmered in a vibrant green chili sauce. This hearty stew is packed with bold flavors from roasted green chiles, garlic, onions, and spices, making it a comforting favorite served with tortillas, over rice, or in burritos.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, savory flavor from slow-simmered pork and roasted green chiles
• Perfect for meal prep with leftovers tasting even better the next day
• Freezer-friendly, making it easy to store and reheat later
• Versatile – serve as a stew, burrito filling, or enchilada sauce
• Customizable spice level – use mild or hot green chiles depending on your preference

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Salt and black pepper
• Vegetable oil
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Roasted green chiles (Hatch, Anaheim, or poblano), chopped
• Jalapeños (optional, for heat), chopped
• Tomatillos, husked and chopped or blended
• Chicken broth
• Ground cumin
• Oregano
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime juice

Directions

1. Season pork generously with salt and pepper.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add pork in batches, searing until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
4. Stir in chopped green chiles, jalapeños (if using), tomatillos, cumin, and oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Return pork to the pot. Pour in chicken broth until pork is just covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until pork is tender and sauce has thickened.
6. Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice before serving. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Serve hot with warm tortillas, over rice, or in a bowl topped with sour cream and cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Add potatoes or hominy for a heartier stew
• Use chicken thighs for a lighter alternative
• Blend the sauce for a smoother texture before adding back the pork
• Make it creamy with a swirl of sour cream at the end
• Try in a slow cooker – after browning the pork and sautéing aromatics, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce

FAQs

What type of pork is best for green chili?

Pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal because it’s well-marbled and becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, use more jalapeños, add serrano peppers, or opt for hot Hatch chiles to kick up the heat.

Can I use canned green chiles?

Absolutely. Canned green chiles are convenient and work well, though roasted fresh chiles offer a deeper flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chicken broth is gluten-free, the dish is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make Pork Green Chili in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the pork first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or until pork is tender.

What should I serve with pork green chili?

Warm tortillas, rice, or cornbread are great choices. You can also serve it with sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped onions.

Can I substitute tomatillos?

If tomatillos are unavailable, use a mix of green salsa and lime juice for a similar tangy effect.

How do I thicken the green chili?

Let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water if needed.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Definitely. The flavors deepen as it rests, so making it a day ahead is often even better.

Conclusion

Pork Green Chili is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that brings a taste of the Southwest to your kitchen. Whether served in a bowl with a warm tortilla or smothered over enchiladas, it’s sure to become a family favorite. With easy storage, reheating, and variation options, this dish is as practical as it is delicious.

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