# The Charm of Green Chile: A Culinary Gem of the Southwest
Green chile, also known as chile verde, is a cherished dish that has ignited discussions regarding its origins, with fans asserting connections to Colorado, New Mexico, and other Southwestern regions. No matter where it originated, one fact remains indisputable: green chile is a gastronomic pleasure that enchants the palate.
## What is Green Chile?
Green chile is a vibrant stew centered around green chiles, pork, and a variety of seasonings. In contrast to Texas chili, which tends to be robust and thick, green chile presents a lighter, more vibrant flavor that makes it an invigorating choice for chili aficionados. The dish is adaptable and can be enjoyed in several forms, such as a stew, a topping for burritos, or even a dip.
### Green Chile Stew: A Classic from New Mexico
In New Mexico, green chile stew is commonly known simply as pork stew. This dish is recognized as one of the finest iterations of pork stew available, often outshining even cherished global dishes like tonjiru from Tokyo. The fusion of tender pork and zesty green chiles results in a cozy and fulfilling meal.
### The Contribution of Tomatillos
Though tomatillos are not a conventional component of green chile, their inclusion can significantly enhance the dish. Roasting tomatillos reveals their inherent smokiness, which complements the chiles beautifully, adding richness and intricacy to the stew.
### Hatch Chiles: The Benchmark
Hatch chiles are frequently regarded as the benchmark for crafting green chile, particularly during their peak season. However, for those outside the Southwest, substitutes like Anaheims and a spicier green chile variety such as jalapeño or serrano can be used. This adaptability allows everyone to savor green chile, irrespective of their locale.
### The Ideal Pork Cut
For optimal results, pork shoulder is the advised cut for green chile stew. While some preparation is necessary, including trimming and cubing, the result is well worth the effort. Using boneless pork shoulder can streamline the process, making it more manageable.
### Cooking Techniques and Timing
Green chile stew can be prepared using a variety of methods, including a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or Dutch oven. Each technique provides a distinctive cooking experience, but the crucial point is to keep an eye on the cooking duration. The flavors mature beautifully as time goes on, with many chefs suggesting a cooking time of 3.5 hours for the best flavor. However, checking at 2 hours is recommended, as it yields a fresher, more floral taste.
## Recipe: Extremely Simple Slow Cooker Chile Verde
### Ingredients
– 1 cup hatch chiles (approximately 4)
– 4 lb pork shoulder/butt (trimmed and cubed)
– 1 lb tomatillos
– 6 cloves garlic
– 1 cup fresh cilantro (around half a bunch)
– 1 medium onion (diced)
– 1 tbsp cumin
– 2 cups chicken stock (preferably no sodium/unsalted)
– 1 tbsp oregano (Mexican oregano preferred, optional)
### Instructions
1. Trim and cube the pork shoulder, seasoning generously with salt and pepper.
2. Set your oven to broil. Clean and dry the tomatillos and hatch chiles, coat them with oil, and roast until they reach your preferred level of toasting (about 18 minutes).
3. As the peppers roast, brown the pork in batches in a Dutch oven or slow cooker. Set aside after browning.
4. Following roasting, place the chiles in a ziplock bag to steam for 10 minutes. Blend the tomatillos with cilantro, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
5. In the same pot, sauté the onions until translucent, then incorporate the cumin and the browned pork along with the chicken stock.
6. Peel and seed the chiles, then blend them before adding to the pot with the other components. Simmer for 2-4 hours.
7. In the final half hour, taste and adjust seasoning, adding oregano if desired.
8. Serve with cilantro, tortillas, and rice, or enjoy alone.
### Nutrition Facts
– Calories: 492
– Fat: 16.1g
– Cholesterol: 263mg
– Sodium: 442mg
– Protein: 71.8g
## Conclusion
Green chile transcends being merely a dish; it is a tribute to flavor and culture that embodies the essence of the Southwest. Whether you relish it in a traditional manner or experiment with variations, green chile will undoubtedly please and fulfill. Immerse yourself in this culinary journey and uncover why it occupies a cherished place in the hearts of many.