Chili Colorado
Chili Colorado features tender pork simmered in a rich, smoky chile sauce, offering bold flavors perfect for hearty comfort meals and enjoyed with tortillas or rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the meat, salt, and 1/4 cup of water into a heavy pan. Cover and cook over low heat, shaking occasionally, until the meat is tender, about 45 minutes.
- If the mixture becomes too dry during cooking, add a little water.
- Crush the garlic, cumin seed, and oregano in a mortar.
- Remove stems from the chiles, leaving the seeds and veins. Cover with water and simmer for about 10 minutes until soft.
- Drain the chiles and transfer to a blender jar, along with 1 cup of the water, the garlic, cumin, and oregano; blend until smooth.
- Set the chile sauce aside.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the pork in the spices overnight. If Anaheim chiles are unavailable, you can substitute with poblano or even bell peppers for a milder taste. Adjust the cumin and oregano according to your preference; these spices are key to achieving authentic taste in Mexican recipes. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chili Colorado with warm tortillas or over rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Walter's Mexican Cornbread for a delightful contrast. You can also top it with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for added freshness. Consider serving alongside a simple salad or some Mexican rice for a complete dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chili in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent drying out. It can also be reheated in the microwave, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Colorado contains roughly 2686 calories, with 40g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 282g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (81% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1111mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken for the pork. However, chicken will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly, aiming for about 30 minutes or until tender. The flavors will still be delicious, but the texture will differ slightly.
How spicy is this dish with Anaheim chiles?
Anaheim chiles are generally mild, so the dish will have a gentle heat. If you prefer it spicier, consider adding a few jalapeños or using a hotter variety of chiles. Always taste the sauce before adding more spice to ensure it meets your heat preference.
Can I make this chili in advance?
Absolutely! Chili Colorado tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it ahead of time, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it for up to three months; just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).