Mile High Green Chili is a robust and flavorful dish that brings the vibrant taste of the Southwest to your kitchen. This hearty chili is made with tender chunks of pork simmered in a rich broth filled with roasted green chilies, tomatoes, and a blend of spices that create a bold, savory flavor. Perfectly suited for a comforting dinner, this green chili offers a delightful combination of smokiness, spiciness, and a touch of tanginess, making it a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy a kick of heat. Often served over rice or with warm tortillas, Mile High Green Chili can be enjoyed as a main course, a topping for burritos, or even as a dip with tortilla chips. This dish is ideal for warming up on a cool evening, offering a taste of Colorado’s culinary heritage with every spoonful.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups roasted green chilies, peeled, seeded, and chopped (such as Hatch chilies)
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Brown the Pork:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed pork shoulder in batches, searing each piece until browned on all sides. Remove the pork and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Chilies and Spices:
- Stir in the roasted green chilies, jalapeño (if using), diced tomatoes, ground cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and coriander. Cook for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Return Pork and Add Liquid:
- Return the browned pork to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors are well developed.
- Thicken the Chili:
- In a small bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with a few tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the chili, cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chili has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Season and Serve:
- Season the Mile High Green Chili with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle the chili into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy with warm tortillas, over rice, or with tortilla chips.
Mile High Green Chili is a comforting and satisfying dish that captures the essence of Southwestern cuisine. With its tender pork, vibrant green chilies, and aromatic spices, this chili is a flavorful addition to any meal, offering warmth and comfort in every bite.
