This Cozy Pork Green Chili Stew is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tender pork and zesty green chiles, it’s packed with flavor and perfect for chilly nights.
I love how it simmers away while I relax, and it’s so easy to make! Just toss everything in a pot, and soon you’ll have a delicious meal that makes everyone smile.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is great for stews because it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. If you need a substitution, boneless chicken thighs can work too, although the flavor will be different.
Green Chiles: Roasted green chiles are key for that authentic taste. If you can’t find fresh, canned green chiles are a good alternative. Just check the spice level! I often use Hatch chiles for their unique flavor.
Jalapeños: They add heat, but you can skip them if you prefer a milder stew. Alternatively, use a milder pepper like Anaheim or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for warmth without the heat.
White Beans: These add texture and heartiness. If you’re looking for a different option, chickpeas or black beans work great too. Or, simply omit them for a pure chili flavor!
How Do I Get the Pork Perfectly Tender?
Getting that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness is all about the cooking time and temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by browning the pork in batches to develop flavor. This step is crucial!
- Make sure to use a low simmer after adding all the ingredients together. Aim for about 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time.
- Check for tenderness by testing a piece with a fork; it should shred easily.
Low and slow is the secret here! Don’t rush the process, and your stew will be fantastic.
Cozy Pork Green Chili Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups roasted green chiles (such as Hatch or poblano), peeled and chopped
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or crema (for serving, optional)
- Warm tortillas or crusty bread (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy stew requires about 20 minutes of prep time and 1.5 to 2 hours to simmer on the stove. In total, you’re looking at around 2 hours and 20 minutes until you can enjoy a bowl of warm and comforting goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to brown the meat nicely.
2. Brown the Pork:
Add the pork cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the meat on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes per batch. Once browned, remove the pork from the pot and set it aside. This step adds a ton of flavor to your stew!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent and tender, around 5 minutes. This is where the base flavors start to develop!
4. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Stir in the minced garlic, chopped jalapeños, ground cumin, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant. You’ll love how your kitchen smells right now!
5. Mix in the Green Chiles:
Next, stir in the chopped roasted green chiles and cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the browned pork to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. This will create a rich and hearty base for your stew.
7. Slow Simmer:
Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is really tender and the stew has thickened up. Check it occasionally and stir to make sure it doesn’t stick!
8. Add Beans (Optional):
If you’re using white beans, now is the time to stir them in. Cook for an additional 10 minutes just to heat them through.
9. Season to Taste:
Before serving, taste your stew and season it with salt, black pepper, and the juice of one lime. This will brighten up all the flavors!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Add a dollop of sour cream or crema on top if desired. Enjoy it with warm tortillas or some crusty bread for dipping!
Enjoy the comforting flavors and the cozy warmth of this green chili pork stew!
FAQ for Cozy Pork Green Chili Stew
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder is ideal for its flavor and tenderness, you can use pork loin or even pork tenderloin. Just keep in mind that these cuts are leaner and may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What If I Can’t Find Roasted Green Chiles?
No worries! If fresh roasted green chiles aren’t available, canned green chiles work perfectly too. Just drain them before adding to the stew. You could also use jarred salsa verde for a similar taste if you’re in a pinch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well! For freezing, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers, where it will keep well for up to 3 months.
Can I Make This Stew Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the pork with hearty vegetables and protein alternatives like mushrooms, lentils, or jackfruit. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully plant-based option!
