Chili Verde

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mexican

Chili Verde is a vibrant, flavorful Mexican-inspired stew featuring tender pork, roasted green chilies, and aromatic spices. Its bold, tangy taste pairs perfectly with beans, rice, and tortillas, making it an ideal hearty dish for family dinners or casual gatherings craving a spicy, comforting meal.

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Ingredients

  • 3 pork steaks, cut into 1/2-inch strips
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 small cans whole green chilies, chopped or sliced
  • 1 large jalapeno pepper, chopped fine
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 lb. canned whole tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp. cumin
  • salt to taste
  • 2 1/2 cups water

Instructions

  1. Fry the pork steaks until golden brown.
  2. Pour out the unwanted grease.
  3. Saute the onions and garlic with the meat.
  4. Add the chopped or sliced green chilies, chopped jalapeno, cumin, salt, water, and chopped tomatoes.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Lower the heat and simmer until the pork is cooked through and tender.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the pork in spices overnight before cooking. If you prefer a milder dish, use fewer jalapenos or opt for a milder variety. Fresh tomatillos can also replace canned tomatoes for a more authentic taste. This dish can be served with refried beans for a hearty meal.

Serving Suggestions

Chili Verde is delicious served over rice or with warm tortillas for scooping. Pair it with a side of Winter Guacamole for a fresh contrast, or enjoy it with Mexican recipes that feature corn or beans. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds a nice touch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Chili Verde in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until heated through. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chili Verde contains roughly 1206 calories, with 6g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 122g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (97% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2243mg per serving (98% of the Daily Value).

1206 kcal 60% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.5g 13% DV
Total Fat 122.2g 100% DV
Carbs 24.9g 9% DV
Fiber 3.6g 13% DV
Sugar 3.6g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2243.5mg 98% DV
Potassium 676.5mg 14% DV
Cholesterol 110mg 37% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 83.2mcg 9% DV
Vitamin C 22.6mg 25% DV
Calcium 268.6mg 21% DV
Iron 17.5mg 97% DV

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute pork with chicken or beef if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken tends to cook faster than pork. For a vegetarian option, try using jackfruit or mushrooms.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, add more jalapenos or include a diced serrano pepper. You can also incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the spice level.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! Chili Verde can be made a day ahead. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving. It’s perfect for meal prep!

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).

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