Chili Verde Recipe

Chili Verde, a traditional Mexican dish known for its vibrant green color and rich flavors, is a true crowd-pleaser. Made with tender pork simmered in a tangy green sauce of tomatillos, green chilies, and herbs, this dish is both comforting and flavorful. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinners or impress guests with something special, Chili Verde is the perfect choice. Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious and authentic dish from scratch!

this Recipe

What is Chili Verde?

Chili Verde, also known as "green chili," is a popular Mexican dish that typically features chunks of pork cooked in a green sauce made from tomatillos, green chilies, and a blend of spices. The result is a savory and tangy stew with a beautiful green hue. It’s often served with rice, beans, or tortillas and can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. The flavors of Chili Verde are complex yet balanced, making it a favorite in Mexican cuisine.

Ingredients List for Chili Verde

To make an authentic Chili Verde, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Pork Shoulder: 2 pounds of boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes (you can also use pork butt).
2. Tomatillos: 1 pound of fresh tomatillos, husked and rinsed.
3. Poblano Peppers: 2 large poblano peppers.
4. Jalapeños: 2 jalapeños, seeded for less heat (optional).
5. Garlic: 4 cloves of garlic, minced.
6. Onion: 1 large onion, chopped.
7. Cilantro: 1 bunch of fresh cilantro, roughly chopped.
8. Chicken Broth: 2 cups of chicken broth (you can also use vegetable broth).
9. Ground Cumin: 1 tablespoon of ground cumin.
10. Oregano: 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
11. Salt and Pepper: To taste.
12. Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of olive oil for searing the pork.
13. Lime Juice: Juice of 1 lime, for a tangy finish.

Substitutions and Variations

Chili Verde is a versatile dish that can be adapted to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

1. Meat Alternatives: If you prefer a leaner cut of meat, you can substitute the pork shoulder with chicken thighs or turkey. For a vegetarian version, consider using roasted vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, and mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative.
2. Tomatillos: If fresh tomatillos are not available, you can use canned tomatillos. However, fresh tomatillos will give the best flavor and texture.
3. Chilies: Adjust the heat level by using more or fewer jalapeños. For a milder version, you can substitute jalapeños with Anaheim peppers, which are less spicy.
4. Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like parsley or epazote can be added for additional flavor. If you like a smokier taste, consider adding a bit of smoked paprika.
5. Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer, you can cook the Chili Verde in a slow cooker. Simply sear the pork and then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker, cooking on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Chili Verde at home is easier than you might think. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a delicious and authentic dish:

1. Prepare the Tomatillos and Peppers

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Place the tomatillos, poblano peppers, and jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the tomatillos are soft and the peppers have blistered.
• Once roasted, remove the skins from the peppers, discard the seeds, and roughly chop the peppers.

2. Sear the Pork

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Season the pork cubes with salt and pepper.
• Working in batches, sear the pork on all sides until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the pork from the pot and set it aside.

3. Cook the Aromatics

• In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

4. Blend the Sauce

• In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted tomatillos, chopped peppers, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and chicken broth. Blend until smooth.
• Pour the green sauce into the pot with the onions and garlic, stirring to combine.

5. Simmer the Pork

• Return the seared pork to the pot, stirring it into the green sauce.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the Chili Verde cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together.

6. Finish and Serve

• Stir in the lime juice just before serving to add a fresh, tangy note.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
• Serve your Chili Verde hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and alongside rice, beans, or warm tortillas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though Chili Verde is a relatively simple dish, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

1. Overcooking the Pork: While simmering the pork low and slow is essential for tender meat, be careful not to overcook it, which can make the pork dry. Check the pork for tenderness after 1.5 hours and continue cooking only if necessary.
2. Skipping the Roasting Step: Roasting the tomatillos and peppers brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the sauce. Don’t skip this step for the best flavor.
3. Underseasoning: Since Chili Verde relies on a few key ingredients, proper seasoning is crucial. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and lime juice as needed.
4. Not Blending the Sauce Well: To achieve the smooth, rich consistency typical of Chili Verde, blend the sauce thoroughly. If your blender is small, work in batches to avoid a chunky sauce.
5. Using Low-Quality Broth: Since broth is a significant component of the sauce, using low-quality broth can diminish the flavor. Opt for a good-quality or homemade broth for the best results.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chili Verde is a rustic dish, but with a few simple touches, you can elevate its presentation:

1. Serve in Bowls: Serve the Chili Verde in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant green sauce. This also helps the dish cool slightly before eating.
2. Garnish with Fresh Ingredients: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a wedge of lime, or thinly sliced radishes for added color and flavor.
3. Accompany with Sides: Serve Chili Verde with a side of warm corn tortillas, Mexican rice, or refried beans. These traditional sides complement the flavors of the dish beautifully.
4. Add a Dollop of Cream: For a rich contrast to the tangy sauce, add a spoonful of sour cream or crema Mexicana on top of the Chili Verde.

How to Serve Chili Verde

Chili Verde is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

1. Main Dish: Serve it as a main course with rice, beans, and tortillas for a complete, satisfying meal.
2. Taco Filling: Use the Chili Verde as a filling for soft tacos. Simply spoon the pork and sauce into warm tortillas and top with your favorite taco toppings.
3. Enchiladas: Roll the Chili Verde in corn tortillas, place them in a baking dish, cover with more sauce and cheese, and bake until bubbly for delicious enchiladas.
4. Burrito Bowl: Serve the Chili Verde over a bed of rice with beans, lettuce, and guacamole for a flavorful burrito bowl.
5. Huevos Rancheros: For a delicious breakfast, serve Chili Verde over eggs and warm tortillas, topped with cheese and avocado.

Presentation Ideas for Chili Verde

If you’re looking to make a lasting impression, here are some presentation ideas for your Chili Verde:

1. Cast Iron Skillet: Serve the Chili Verde in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, homestyle presentation. This keeps the dish warm and looks great on the table.
2. Mini Cast Iron Pots: For individual servings, consider using small cast iron pots or cocottes. This adds a charming, personalized touch to each serving.
3. Garnish with Color: Brighten up the presentation with colorful garnishes like diced red onions, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of queso fresco.
4. Serve with a Side Garnish Plate: Create a small side plate with additional garnishes such as lime wedges, chopped onions, and cilantro so guests can customize their Chili Verde to their liking.

Chili Verde Recipe Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you make the best Chili Verde:

1. Make It Ahead: Chili Verde tastes even better the next day. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve.
2. Freeze for Later: Chili Verde freezes well. After cooking, let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat as needed.
3. Use a Pressure Cooker: If you’re short on time, you can make Chili Verde in a pressure cooker. Sear the pork, sauté the aromatics, then add the sauce and cook on high pressure for about 30 minutes.
4. Adjust the Heat: If you like it spicy, add more jalapeños or include a serrano pepper. For a milder version, reduce the amount of spicy peppers or remove all the seeds.
5. Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the Chili Verde simmer uncovered for the last 20-30 minutes, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken instead of pork in Chili Verde?
A: Yes, chicken thighs or breasts work well in Chili Verde. The cooking time may be shorter, so check the chicken for doneness after about 45 minutes to an hour of simmering.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover Chili Verde in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I make Chili Verde in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! After searing the pork, transfer it to a slow cooker along with the sauce and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q: Is Chili Verde spicy?
A: The heat level of Chili Verde can vary depending on the peppers used. Poblano peppers are mild, but jalapeños add heat. Adjust the number of jalapeños to suit your taste.

Q: Can I use canned tomatillos?
A: Yes, canned tomatillos can be used if fresh ones are not available. However, fresh tomatillos will provide the best flavor.

Conclusion

Chili Verde is a delicious and flavorful Mexican dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this vibrant green chili is sure to impress. With its tender pork, tangy tomatillo sauce, and rich blend of spices, Chili Verde is a dish that you’ll find yourself making again and again. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the authentic taste of Mexico with this easy-to-follow Chili Verde recipe!

Print