Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ultimate Chile Verde Pork Stew?
It is a comforting and flavorful stew featuring tender pork, tomatillos, and a blend of fresh chilies inspired by the La Frontera restaurant flavor profile.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of pork roast, cut into chunks.
How many tomatillos are required?
You will need 10 tomatillos with stems and husks removed, cut into large chunks.
Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, it contains 6 small jalapeño chiles and 6 serrano chiles, though removing the seeds helps manage the heat level.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed to be prepared in a slow cooker for optimal tenderness.
How long does it take to cook?
It can be cooked on high for 2 hours followed by a lower setting, or for best results, cooked on low for 8 hours.
How do I thicken the stew?
Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 ounces of cold water and add it to the slow cooker 30 minutes before serving.
What inspired this chile verde recipe?
The recipe is inspired by the regional flavors associated with the La Frontera restaurant in Utah.
Are Anaheim chiles mandatory?
No, the 3 Anaheim chiles are listed as optional ingredients.
What garnishes are recommended?
Serve garnished with fresh chopped onions and a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Should I sear the pork before slow cooking?
Yes, searing the pork in olive oil after coating it with flour, salt, and pepper adds significant flavor and texture.
How much chicken broth is needed?
The recipe uses 2 cups of chicken broth.
Is cilantro used in the base sauce?
Yes, 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro is puréed with the tomatillos and fresh chilies.
What canned ingredients are included?
The recipe includes canned green chiles, canned diced tomatoes, and canned tomato sauce.
What spices are used?
The stew is seasoned with oregano, ground cumin, and chili powder.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 320 calories.
How much protein does this stew provide?
There are 23g of protein per serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
While tagged as gluten-free, the recipe uses all-purpose flour; to ensure it is gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour substitute for the pork coating.
What is the fat content?
One serving contains 16g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 20g of carbohydrates per serving.
Is there much fiber in this dish?
Yes, each serving provides 5g of dietary fiber.
Do I need to purée the vegetables?
Yes, the tomatillos, jalapeños, serranos, and cilantro should be puréed in a food processor until smooth.
How many cloves of garlic are used?
The recipe specifies 1 tablespoon of minced garlic.
What is the preparation for the onion?
Use one large chopped onion; sauté most of it with the garlic and reserve some for garnish.
What should I serve with the chile verde?
It is delicious served with warm tortillas or over a bed of rice.
What are the main tags for this recipe?
Tags include chile verde, pork stew, mexican food, slow cooker, comfort food, and spicy.
Do I need to drain the tomatoes?
Yes, the 10 oz can of diced tomatoes should be drained before being added to the mixture.
How much olive oil is required?
Use 2 tablespoons of olive oil, plus more as needed for searing the pork and sautéing onions.
Is serrano chile hotter than jalapeño?
Generally yes, and this recipe uses 6 of each to create a vibrant, spicy flavor profile.
Can I adjust the consistency of the stew?
Yes, by using the cornstarch and water mixture, you can thicken the stew to your desired consistency.