Ground Pork Stew with Green Chiles and Tomatoes
This comforting and easy pork stew combines bold Southwestern flavors with a rich, savory base. Tender ground pork is simmered with green chiles, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, making it a cozy, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect with warm tortillas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy – Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples and affordable ground pork.
Hearty and satisfying – Great as a weeknight meal or make-ahead lunch.
Warm Southwestern flavors – A gentle kick from green chiles and cumin.
Versatile – Serve with tortillas, over rice, or with cornbread.
Key Ingredients
Ground pork – Rich and flavorful, it cooks quickly and absorbs spices well.
Green chiles – Mild heat and smoky flavor; use canned or fresh-roasted.
Diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and body to the stew.
Onion and garlic – Essential aromatics for a flavorful base.
Cumin – Earthy spice that brings warmth and depth.
Flour – Helps thicken the stew.
Salt & pepper – To season and enhance all the other ingredients.
Expert Tips
Make it chunkier: Add diced potatoes, carrots, or beans for a heartier stew.
Roast your own chiles for a deeper flavor if you have time.
Don’t skip the flour – it adds body and helps thicken the broth naturally.
Simmer longer if you want a richer, thicker consistency.
Double the batch – it freezes beautifully for future meals.
Ingredients
1 pound (454 g) ground pork (See directions for grinding your own pork in the post above.)
½ cup (80 g) chopped onions
1-2 cloves minced garlic
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon table or sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 14.5-ounce (439 g) can diced tomatoes
1 4-oz. (141 g) can chopped green chiles
3-4 cups (700-946 g) water
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground pork with chopped onions, garlic, and cumin until pork is fully cooked and onions are soft. Drain any excess grease, leaving a little for flavor.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly browned and fragrant.
- Add salt, pepper, diced tomatoes (with juices), green chiles, and 3–4 cups of water. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 to 60 minutes, until thickened to your desired consistency.
- Serve hot with warm flour tortillas, or over rice if preferred.
Important Notes When Making This Recipe
Use lean ground pork if you prefer less fat, but don’t skip the browning step for flavor.
Adjust the water depending on how thick or soupy you like your stew.
Mild or hot green chiles can be used based on your spice preference.
Taste before serving some brands of canned tomatoes and chiles may need more salt.
Nutrition Information
(Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: 340
Protein: 22g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 820mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute ground turkey or beef?
A: Yes, both work well, but pork gives the best flavor in this recipe.
Q: How spicy is it?
A: Mild to medium depending on the green chiles. Use hot chiles for more heat or add a pinch of cayenne.
Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Q: What sides go well with this?
A: Warm flour tortillas, rice, cornbread, or a simple green salad.