Authentic Chili Verde
Chili Verde is a classic Mexican-inspired dish that showcases the bold flavors of roasted green chiles, tangy tomatillos, and tender chunks of pork. The name itself means “green chili,” referring to the bright, zesty sauce that makes this dish so beloved. It’s traditionally slow-cooked to allow the pork to become meltingly tender, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Whether you serve it over rice, scoop it into warm tortillas, or use it as a filling for burritos, tacos, or even tamales, Chili Verde brings warmth and comfort to every bite.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds tomatillos, husks removed and washed
- 2 poblano peppers, halved and seeded
- 2 jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 large white onion, cut into 8 wedges
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 cup cilantro, loosely packed
- 2 tablespoons oil (or bacon grease for extra flavor)
- 3 pounds pork butt or shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups chicken broth (or ham broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, toasted and ground (optional)
- 2 teaspoons oregano
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or fish sauce, or salt to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped for garnish
Directions:
1. Prepare the Tomatillo Sauce
Preheat the broiler. Arrange the tomatillos, poblano peppers, jalapeños (cut side down), onion, and garlic on a baking sheet.
Broil for 8–10 minutes, or until the skins are blistered and slightly charred.
Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender, add the loosely packed cilantro, and blend until smooth. Set aside.
2. Brown the Pork
Heat oil or bacon grease in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
Add the pork cubes and sear until golden brown on all sides. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Remove the browned pork and set aside.
3. Simmer the Chili Verde
Return the pork to the pot, then pour in the tomatillo sauce and broth.
Add the cumin (if using), oregano, and soy sauce or salt.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pork is fall-apart tender and the sauce has thickened.
Alternative Cooking Methods:
- Oven Method: Transfer everything to a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven and bake, covered, for 2–3 hours.
- Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 4–5 hours.
4. Final Seasoning & Serving
Remove from heat, stir in the lime juice, and garnish with chopped cilantro. Adjust salt as needed.
Serve hot with warm tortillas, over fluffy rice, or as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.
Optional Garnishes & Serving Ideas:
🌿 Fresh lime wedges
🌿 Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese
🌿 Chopped onions and extra cilantro
🌿 Avocado slices
🌿 Warm tortillas or Mexican rice on the side
Enjoy Your Authentic Chili Verde!
This dish is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary through the magic of slow cooking. The smoky, tangy, and savory flavors of Chili Verde are sure to make it a favorite at your table.
Let me know if you’d like me to create a printable version or share side dish ideas! 🌶️🌿