Slow Cooker Chili Verde
Craving a hearty and flavorful dish that practically cooks itself? Check out this slow cooker chili verde recipe.
It features tender chunks of pork, tangy tomatillos, and a blend of spices, making it sure to become a family favorite.
All you have to do is throw everything in the slow cooker, let it simmer all day, and come home to a delicious, homemade meal.
Get ready to savor the rich and comforting flavors of this easy-to-make chili verde.
Origin
Slow Cooker Chili Verde has its roots in traditional Mexican cuisine, originating in the region of Veracruz. The name ‘Chili Verde’ translates to ‘green chili,’ referring to the main ingredient in the dish, which is the green chili pepper.
The slow cooker method for preparing this dish became popular in the United States during the mid-20th century. It allowed for the easy and convenient cooking of the tender meat and flavorful vegetables, resulting in a rich and hearty stew.
This comfort food has become a favorite for many, with its savory taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 can of diced green chilies
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
Instructions
Start by browning the pork shoulder chunks in a hot skillet. Once they’re nicely browned, transfer them to the slow cooker.
Sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker along with the diced green chilies, chicken broth, and spices. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
When the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork, it’s ready. Serve the chili verde hot with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro. Enjoy!
Tips for Cooking
Enhance the flavor and texture of your Slow Cooker Chili Verde with these helpful cooking tips. Here are some ideas to guarantee your chili tastes great every time:
| Tips for Cooking |
|---|
| Utilize fresh ingredients |
| Brown the meat before adding to the slow cooker |
| Adjust the spice level to your liking |
| Let it simmer for at least 6 hours |
| Add lime juice for a zesty kick |
Using fresh ingredients will boost the overall taste of your chili. Browning the meat before adding it to the slow cooker will add a deep, smoky flavor. Adjusting the spice level ensures that the chili is tailored to your liking. Allowing it to simmer for at least 6 hours will allow the flavors to blend together nicely. Lastly, adding a squeeze of lime juice right before serving will give your chili a zesty kick. Follow these tips to take your Slow Cooker Chili Verde to the next level!
Final Thoughts
For successful Slow Cooker Chili Verde, it’s important to brown the pork before adding it to the slow cooker. This will give the meat a nice texture and flavor.
Additionally, roasting the tomatillos, peppers, and onions before blending them into a smooth sauce is a must. This will help to bring out the sweetness of the vegetables and develop a more complex flavor.
In order to get the most out of the chili, it should be cooked on low heat for several hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a tasty dish.
Lastly, don’t forget to top off each bowl with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish. Enjoy your homemade Slow Cooker Chili Verde!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat Instead of Pork for the Slow Cooker Chili Verde Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely substitute pork for another type of meat in the slow cooker chili verde recipe. Chicken or beef would be great choices that will still produce a delicious result.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Slow Cooker Chili Verde in the Refrigerator?
You can keep your leftover slow cooker chili verde in the fridge for 3-4 days. It is important to transfer the chili into an airtight container before storing it to ensure it stays fresh.
Can I Make This Recipe in an Instant Pot Instead of a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can absolutely make this recipe in an instant pot instead of a slow cooker. It will cook much quicker and still be just as delicious. You will need to adjust the cooking time according to the instructions for your specific instant pot.
Can I Freeze the Slow Cooker Chili Verde for Later Use?
Yes, you can preserve the slow cooker chili verde for later use. Allow it to cool down completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Vegetarian by Using Tofu or Tempeh Instead of Pork?
Yes, it is possible to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly by substituting tofu or tempeh for the pork. Simply replace the pork with your chosen plant-based option and you can enjoy a tasty chili verde.
