Colorado Hatch Green Chili 🌶️🍲 – Bold, Hearty, and Packed with Flavor
Introduction
When it comes to Southwestern comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as Colorado Hatch Green Chili. This hearty stew features tender pork simmered with roasted Hatch green chiles, pinto beans, and savory aromatics, creating a deeply flavorful dish that’s both comforting and bold.
Hatch chiles, grown in the Hatch Valley of New Mexico, are famous for their unique smoky, slightly sweet heat that sets this chili apart from any other. Combined with juicy pork, a touch of spice from jalapeño, and the richness of tomatoes and beans, this dish is perfect for chilly evenings, game day feasts, or family gatherings.
Whether you enjoy it with warm tortillas, over rice, or topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro, Colorado Hatch Green Chili will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Southwestern Flavors – The roasted Hatch chiles deliver unmatched smoky-spicy taste.
- Hearty and Filling – Packed with pork, beans, and vegetables for a full, satisfying meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
- Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy as a stew, over rice, or as a smothering sauce for burritos and enchiladas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lbs boneless pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
Thickening Agent
- ÂĽ cup tapioca flour (or cornstarch)
Flavorful Additions
- 1 (28-oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 (28-oz) cans chopped Hatch green chiles
- 1 fresh jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Liquid and Beans
- 32 oz chicken broth
- 2 cans Bush’s Best Pinto Beans
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Pork
Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add pork cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. This step builds a flavorful base.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Once pork is browned, stir in onion and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Coat with Flour
Sprinkle tapioca flour (or cornstarch) over the pork mixture. Stir well and cook 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Chiles
Mix in diced tomatoes, Hatch green chiles, and minced jalapeño. Season with salt.
Step 5: Simmer with Broth and Beans
Pour in chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add pinto beans and mix thoroughly.
Step 6: Cook Low and Slow
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until pork is tender and flavors meld.
Step 7: Adjust and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or hot sauce if desired. Serve hot with tortillas, rice, or favorite toppings.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Make It Spicier: Add an extra jalapeño, serrano, or a dash of cayenne.
- Roast Fresh Hatch Chiles: If using fresh chiles, roast them until blistered, peel off skins, and chop before adding.
- Different Protein Options: Try chicken thighs or beef chuck roast instead of pork.
- Thicker Chili: Let it simmer uncovered during the last 20 minutes for a thicker consistency.
Important Notes
- Don’t skip browning the pork—it adds depth and prevents bland chili.
- Use authentic Hatch green chiles if possible for the most traditional flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, stick with tapioca flour or cornstarch.
- The chili tastes even better the next day—great for meal prep!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 8 servings)
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sodium: 780mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the pork and sauté aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Q2: Can I freeze Hatch Green Chili?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, store in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove.
Q3: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes—skip the pork and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add extra beans or roasted vegetables for heartiness.
Q4: What’s the best way to serve this chili?
It’s fantastic with warm tortillas, rice, or used as a smothering sauce over burritos, eggs, or tamales.
Q5: Are Hatch chiles very spicy?
They range from mild to medium heat, with a smoky depth of flavor. If you prefer mild chili, reduce jalapeños and stick with mild Hatch varieties.