A Taste of New Mexico: Hatch Green Chile Pork

The story of green chile pork begins in Hatch, New Mexico where the world-famous Hatch green chiles are grown. These peppers, known for their perfect balance of heat and flavor, are the cornerstone of New Mexican cuisine. Growing up, one of my favorite things about fall in New Mexico was the unmistakable scent of fresh roasting green chile. Every August and September, the air fills with this signature, intoxicating aroma. This green chile pork recipe is my ode to that season.

The Magic in the Pot

Now, let's dive into creating this iconic dish in your own kitchen. Here's what you'll need:

2 lbs pork shoulder, cubed
1 lb roasted Hatch green chiles, peeled and chopped or one container of frozen Bueno Green chile which can be found mostly in the Southwestern states
1 large yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp flour
2 tbsp avocado oil
4 cups chicken broth

The Art of the Stew

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and brown them on all sides. The sizzle and aroma will transport you straight to a New Mexican kitchen!
Add the onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. This forms the aromatic base of our stew.
Sprinkle in the cumin, salt, pepper, and flour. The earthy cumin complements the green chiles perfectly.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the chopped green chiles. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 2 hours, or until the pork is tender enough to fall apart with a fork.

A Symphony of Flavors

As the stew simmers, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that speaks of comfort and tradition. The tender pork melts in your mouth, while the green chiles provide a complex flavor profile - smoky, slightly spicy, with a hint of sweetness. It's a taste that captures the essence of New Mexican cuisine in every spoonful.

Serving Up Tradition

Serve your green chile pork stew piping hot, accompanied by warm flour tortillas and a side of fluffy white rice. The tortillas are perfect for sopping up every last bit of the flavorful broth, while the rice provides a neutral backdrop that allows the stew's flavors to shine.

For an authentic touch, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, chopped red onion, and a squeeze of lime juice. And if you're feeling adventurous, a couple of fresh sliced jalepenos add a nice kick of spice!

More Than Just a Meal

This green chile pork stew is more than just a delicious dinner; it's a journey through New Mexican culture and history. Each bite tells a story of sun-drenched chile fields, generations of family recipes, and the warmth of community gatherings.

So, are you ready to bring a taste of New Mexico to your table? Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and let the comforting aroma of green chile pork stew fill your home. Your taste buds—and your soul—will thank you.