Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili Recipe

Main Ingredients

Here are the main ingredients used in this recipe:

• Pork shoulder or ground pork (1-2 lbs): Use either boneless pork shoulder or ground pork for a leaner option.
• Roma tomatoes (2 cups): Canned or fresh, these add moisture and acidity to the dish.
• Chili peppers (4-6): You can use Anaheim, Poblano, or Jalapeño peppers for varying levels of heat.
• Onions (1 large): Sauteed onions bring a depth of flavor and sweetness.
• Garlic (3 cloves): Minced garlic adds a pungency and warmth to the dish.
• Green chili powder (1 tablespoon): This adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
• Cumin (1 teaspoon): Ground cumin brings a warm, earthy flavor.
• Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Smoked or sweet paprika add depth and a subtle sweetness.
• Salt and pepper to taste

This slow cooker pork green chili recipe combines the main components of pork, chili peppers, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices to create a deliciously rich and flavorful dish. The key is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients that work well together in harmony.

Pork shoulder or butt, diced into 1inch pieces (about 2 pounds)

The star ingredient of our Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili Recipe is pork shoulder or butt, diced into one-inch pieces weighing approximately two pounds.

This cut of meat is an excellent choice for slow-cooking as it becomes tender and falls apart easily after several hours of cooking in liquid.

Pork shoulder is a relatively inexpensive and accessible cut of meat that can be found at most grocery stores, typically labeled as pork butt or Boston butt.

The key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in slow-cooked pork is to use the right type of cut – one with plenty of fat and connective tissue that will break down during cooking, making it tender and juicy.

In this recipe, we’re relying on the natural sweetness of the pork combined with a flavorful blend of spices and aromatics to create a rich and satisfying chili that’s perfect for a cold winter night or a casual gathering with friends.

Canned green chilies, preferably with garlic and onions (14.5 oz can)

The ingredients required for this recipe are as follows:

• Main Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 14.5 oz can of green chilies with garlic and onions (preferably mild)

Other ingredients include:

• Spices and Seasonings:
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Aromatics:

• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced

Liquid Ingredients:

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

Others:

• 8 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional)
• Cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Diced tomatoes (28 oz can)

Diced tomatoes are an essential ingredient in many recipes, including our Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili Recipe. A 28 oz can of diced tomatoes provides a substantial amount of flavor and texture to the dish.

When shopping for diced tomatoes, look for a brand that offers high-quality products with minimal added salt and no artificial preservatives. Some popular brands include Muir Glen, Cento, and Bionaturae.

A 28 oz can typically yields about 4-5 cups of diced tomatoes. These can be used as is in the recipe or crushed to release their natural juices and flavor compounds.

Diced tomatoes add a burst of juicy sweetness to the slow cooker pork green chili, helping to balance out the spiciness from the jalapenos and serrano peppers.

The acidity in diced tomatoes also helps to brighten up the flavors of the dish, making it more complex and engaging. This is especially important in a slow-cooked recipe like our Pork Green Chili, where flavors can sometimes become muddled and overpowering.

Additionally, diced tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to several potential health benefits, including reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease.

To use the 28 oz can of diced tomatoes in our Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili Recipe, simply open the can and drain off any excess liquid. Then, add the diced tomatoes to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients, such as pork shoulder, green chilies, garlic, onion, jalapenos, and spices.

Chicken broth (4 cups)

For this Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili Recipe, we will be using chicken broth as a key ingredient to add moisture and flavor to the dish. Chicken broth is a clear liquid made by simmering chicken bones in water, resulting in a rich and savory stock that can be used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces.

The 4 cups of chicken broth called for in this recipe will provide a significant amount of moisture to the chili, helping to tenderize the pork and bring all the flavors together. It’s essential to use high-quality chicken broth that is low-sodium or homemade to avoid adding excessive salt to the dish.

When shopping for chicken broth, you can choose from various types, including low-sodium, organic, or even make your own using leftover chicken bones and vegetables. If using store-bought broth, look for a brand with minimal added ingredients and no artificial preservatives.

Homemade chicken broth is also an excellent option if you have the time to simmer bones in water and strain the liquid. This method allows you to control the sodium content and add your preferred aromatics, such as onions, carrots, and celery, for extra flavor.

Regardless of whether you choose store-bought or homemade chicken broth, make sure it’s fresh and has not been sitting on a shelf for an extended period. Expired or stale broth can affect the overall taste and quality of the dish.

In addition to providing moisture and flavor, chicken broth also serves as a thickening agent in this recipe, helping to create a rich and velvety texture. As the chili cooks, the starches from the broth will break down, contributing to its thickness and depth.

By incorporating 4 cups of high-quality chicken broth into your Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili Recipe, you’ll be able to achieve a perfectly balanced flavor profile with just the right amount of moisture. This key ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing all the flavors together, making it an essential component of this delicious and comforting dish.

Aromatics and Spices

The world of ingredients, aromatics, and spices plays a vital role in elevating the flavors of our slow cooker pork green chili recipe. To begin with, let’s explore the key players that make up this dish.

Ingredients form the foundation of any recipe, providing the essential building blocks for flavor, texture, and nutritional value. In the case of our slow cooker pork green chili, we’ll be using a combination of tender pork shoulder, which serves as the main protein source, and a medley of vegetables such as onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes.

Aromatics, on the other hand, are the compounds that contribute to the aromatic properties of a dish. In our recipe, aromatics like cumin seeds and dried oregano play a crucial role in adding depth and warmth to the flavor profile. These aromatic spices are often toasted or sautéed to release their volatile oils, which then infuse into the surrounding ingredients.

Spices, as we know them, are the result of complex processes that involve grinding, crushing, or powdering various plant parts such as seeds, bark, roots, and flowers. Spices have been an integral part of human cuisine for centuries, with each culture possessing its unique array of spices to create distinct flavor profiles.

In our slow cooker pork green chili recipe, we’ll be utilizing a blend of spices that includes ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. These spices are combined in specific proportions to achieve the desired level of heat, depth, and complexity.

One essential aspect of working with aromatics and spices is understanding their respective roles within the dish. Aromatics typically add a subtle, underlying flavor that enhances the overall experience, whereas spices often take center stage, providing a bold and distinct taste profile.

Apart from enhancing flavor, ingredients, aromatics, and spices also contribute to the nutritional value of our slow cooker pork green chili recipe. By incorporating a variety of vegetables and lean protein sources, we’re able to create a well-rounded dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Onion, diced

When it comes to making the Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili Recipe, one of the essential ingredients is onion, which plays a crucial role in adding flavor and depth to the dish.

The type of onion used for this recipe can be either yellow or white, but the recommended choice would be a medium-sized yellow onion. The reason behind choosing a yellow onion is its sweet and mild flavor, which complements the other ingredients in the chili without overpowering them.

Before using the onion in the Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili Recipe, it needs to be diced into small pieces. Dicing means cutting the onion into 1/2-inch cubes or smaller, depending on your preference and the size of your slow cooker.

The dicing process involves peeling the onion first, which can be done using a vegetable peeler. Once peeled, place the onion on its side and cut it into two equal halves lengthwise. Then, place each half cut-side down and make parallel cuts about 1/2 inch apart, being careful not to cut all the way through.

After making those parallel cuts, you should have a grid-like pattern on the surface of the onion. Next, perpendicular cuts are made between these lines, again without cutting all the way through. This will result in small dice pieces of the onion.

It’s worth noting that the size and uniformity of the diced onion can affect how evenly it cooks with other ingredients in the slow cooker. Smaller cubes tend to cook faster than larger ones, so it may be helpful to adjust the cooking time accordingly or stir the mixture periodically to ensure everything is cooked through.

Finally, when adding the diced onion to your Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili Recipe, make sure not to overcrowd the slow cooker. Cooked onions can add a significant amount of liquid to the chili, so you’ll need enough space for them to cook and combine with other ingredients without spilling over.

Remember that these guidelines are just recommendations. Feel free to adjust your dicing style or onion size based on your personal taste preferences and cooking habits.

Garlic, minced (23 cloves)

The slow cooker pork green chili recipe requires 23 cloves of garlic to add a rich and savory flavor to the dish.

Garlic, minced (23 cloves) is an essential ingredient in this recipe, as it pairs perfectly with the pork, beans, and green chilies to create a bold and aromatic taste experience.

The pungency of the garlic will be released during the slow cooking process, blending harmoniously with the other ingredients to produce a deep and satisfying flavor profile.

Minced garlic is used in this recipe because it allows for even distribution of the flavorful compounds throughout the chili, ensuring that each bite is infused with the essence of garlic.

The 23 cloves of garlic can be minced using a food processor or a knife, and then sautéed with onions and pork to create a savory base for the chili.

When selecting garlic for this recipe, choose fresh and firm bulbs that are free from sprouts and mold, as they will have the most potent flavor and aroma.

The quantity of 23 cloves may seem excessive, but it is essential in developing the rich and complex flavor profile characteristic of slow cooker pork green chili recipes.

Cumin (ground)

Cumin, ground is a crucial ingredient in many cuisines, particularly in Mexican and Southwestern American cooking.

In the context of the Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili Recipe, ground cumin serves as a key flavor component that adds depth and warmth to the dish.

Here are some interesting facts about ground cumin:

1. Cumin seeds are harvested from the Cuminum cyminum plant and are typically brown or gray in color.

2. Ground cumin is made by grinding these seeds into a fine powder, which can range in color from pale beige to dark brown depending on the quality and type of seeds used.

3. Cumin has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, culinary dishes, and spiritual practices.

4. The distinct earthy flavor and aroma of ground cumin are often associated with warm, spicy, and slightly bitter notes.

When using ground cumin in the Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili Recipe, it’s essential to note that a little goes a long way. Start with a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) and adjust to taste as you prefer a stronger or more subtle flavor.

Additionally, be mindful of the type of ground cumin you use: high-quality, stone-ground cumin will offer a richer flavor compared to regular, industrial-grade cumin powder.

In the Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili Recipe, ground cumin can be combined with other spices such as chili powder, paprika, or oregano for an enhanced flavor profile. Feel free to experiment and adjust the proportions according to your taste preferences.

Chili powder

The key to making a delicious slow cooker pork green chili lies not only in its flavorful ingredients but also in the harmonious balance of spices and seasonings. At the heart of this recipe is the quintessential southwestern staple, chili powder.

Chili powder is a complex blend of spices that serves as the primary source of flavor in many Southwestern American dishes, including our slow cooker pork green chili recipe. While there are various types of chili powder available, some commonly used ones include:

• Ancho Chile Powder – This type of chili powder has a mild to medium heat level and is often used in traditional Southwestern recipes for its rich, slightly sweet flavor.
• Dedicated Chili Powder – As the name suggests, this variety is primarily used as a seasoning and adds intense, fiery heat to dishes.
• Guajillo Chile Powder – Known for its bright red color and mild heat, guajillo chili powder is often combined with other spices for added depth of flavor.

The unique characteristic of each type of chili powder allows cooks to tailor their recipes according to personal taste. Ancho or guajillo chili powders might be chosen to balance out the heat of dedicated chili powder, while all types can complement the natural flavors of pork and other ingredients in a slow cooker green chili.

The addition of chili powder to our slow cooker pork green chili recipe will not only contribute its rich flavor profile but also add depth and complexity to this hearty, comforting dish. So feel free to experiment with different types and combinations of chili powders to discover your perfect blend!

Paprika (sweet or smoked)

The ingredients required for this Paprika-enhanced slow cooker pork green chili recipe include a variety of key components that work together to create a rich and flavorful dish.

One essential ingredient in this recipe is ground pork, which serves as the base protein. One pound of lean ground pork is sufficient for this recipe, allowing it to be cooked with a generous amount of other ingredients without overpowering the dish.

An assortment of dried spices and seasonings are also used to add depth and complexity to the Paprika-infused slow cooker pork green chili. This includes ground cumin, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out the flavors.

Another crucial component is canned diced tomatoes, which contribute their tangy flavor and help to create a smooth texture in the final dish. Two cups of diced tomatoes are used in this recipe, ensuring that the chili remains moist without becoming too runny.

The addition of Paprika is what sets this slow cooker pork green chili apart from other recipes. Sweet or smoked paprika, often referred to as the “sweet spice,” is a staple in many cuisines, particularly in Hungarian and Spanish cooking. It adds a subtle, sweet flavor that complements the spicy kick from the green chilies.

The two most common types of paprika are sweet paprika and smoked paprika. Sweet paprika is generally milder in flavor, while smoked paprika has a more intense smoky taste that pairs well with the rich flavors of the slow cooker pork green chili. Both options can be used to achieve excellent results.

Finally, this recipe includes two cups of fresh or frozen kale, which is added towards the end of cooking time to preserve its texture and nutrient-rich properties. This ingredient adds a boost of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that make this slow cooker pork green chili not only delicious but also nutritious.

The combination of these ingredients results in a flavorful and nourishing slow cooker pork green chili recipe that can be enjoyed on its own or served with various toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, diced onions, and crushed tortilla chips.

Instructions and Tips

Cooking the Chili

To cook the Slow Cooker **Pork** Green Chili, follow these step-by-step instructions and tips:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Select fresh ingredients of high quality to ensure a delicious outcome. You will need 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, 1 large onion, 3 cloves garlic, 2 medium-hot Anaheim chilies, 2 medium-hot **Poblano** peppers, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, salt and pepper to taste, 4 cups beef broth, 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro, and shredded cheese for serving.

Step 2: Brown the Pork

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork shoulder and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet and sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Chilies and Spices

Add the Anaheim and **Poblano** peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and dried oregano.

Step 5: Add the Pork and Broth to the Slow Cooker

Add the browned pork shoulder, onion mixture, and beef broth to the Slow Cooker**. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.

Step 6: Finish with Diced Tomatoes and Cilantro

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the diced tomatoes and chopped fresh **cilantro**. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese and chilies, if desired. Enjoy your delicious slow-cooked pork green chili!

Brown the pork in a skillet until browned on all sides, then transfer it to the slow cooker.

The key to a delicious and tender pork in this slow cooker green chili recipe is to brown it first, which will add a rich flavor to the dish.

To begin, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the pork to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.

This step is crucial as it will create a flavorful crust on the surface of the pork, which will then infuse into the green chili during cooking. Don’t skip this step or try to cook the pork in the slow cooker without browning it first.

Once the pork is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker and add the remaining ingredients according to your preference. You can use a mix of green chilies, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and any other spices or seasonings you like.

Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours until the pork is tender and falls apart easily. Serve hot with some crusty bread or over rice, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Add the remaining ingredients (excluding spices) to the slow cooker and stir well.

To make this delicious and easy slow cooker pork green chili recipe, it’s essential to follow some instructions and tips carefully.

Firstly, start by gathering all the ingredients excluding spices that are listed in the recipe. This will include items such as boneless pork shoulder or butt, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic cloves, green chilies, beef broth, and tomato paste.

Add these remaining ingredients to the slow cooker and stir well. This is crucial to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined and distributed evenly throughout the cooking process.

Next, add any desired spices to the mixture, such as cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, or paprika. Stir again to combine the spices with the other ingredients.

Finally, cook the green chili on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, depending on your preference and schedule.

When you return home after work or whenever you’re ready to eat, you’ll find a rich and flavorful slow-cooked pork green chili waiting for you. It’s perfect for serving over rice, with some warm tortillas, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.

Cover the slow cooker and cook for 68 hours or overnight.

To make this delicious _Slow Cooker_ pork green chili recipe, follow these instructions carefully.

First, prepare all the ingredients in advance to save time later. This includes chopping onions, bell peppers, and jalapenos, as well as measuring out the spices and herbs such as garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, _paprika_, and oregano.

Next, brown the pork shoulder in a _saucepan_ over medium-high heat. This will create a rich flavor base for the chili. Remove the browned pork from the pan and set it aside for later use.

In the same saucepan, add some oil to prevent burning, then sauté the chopped onions until they are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Now, add the chopped bell peppers, jalapenos, and a pinch of salt to the saucepan. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

In a large _slow cooker_, combine the browned pork shoulder, sautéed onion and pepper mixture, diced tomatoes, green chilies, broth, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Cover the _slow cooker_ with a lid and cook for 68 hours or overnight on low heat setting. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the pork to become tender and juicy.

After the cooking time is complete, remove the _slow cooker_ from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use two forks to shred the cooked pork into bite-sized pieces.

Serve the slow cooker pork green chili hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, scallions, or crumbled queso if desired. Enjoy this hearty and delicious meal with some crusty bread, cornbread, or over rice or noodles.

Tasting and Serving

In this slow cooker pork green chili recipe, we’ll explore the essential instructions and tips for tasting and serving the dish to perfection.

Tasting

1. Let the chili rest before tasting. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the heat to settle down, making it easier to taste and adjust seasoning.

2. Start by adding small amounts of the desired seasonings or spices. Taste as you go and continue adjusting until the flavor is balanced to your liking.

3. Taste and check the seasoning frequently, especially when using chili peppers, cumin, or oregano. These flavors can quickly become overpowering if not managed carefully.

Serving

When serving your slow cooker pork green chili, consider the following tips for a truly memorable experience:

• Fresh toppings add flavor and texture. Consider offering shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, chives, or crushed tortilla chips for added enjoyment.

• Offer warm tortillas on the side to make the dish more versatile. This can be especially appreciated when serving a group of guests who may have varying tastes in chili texture and consistency.

• Pair your green chili with complementary sides, such as cornbread, warm tortilla chips, or steaming rice. These options not only soak up the flavorful broth but also add to the overall satisfaction of the meal.

Additional Tips and Considerations

When cooking your slow cooker pork green chili, keep in mind:

• A good balance between spice levels can greatly enhance the overall enjoyment of the dish. Some people may prefer a milder flavor while others might enjoy the bold taste and heat that comes with using more chili peppers.

• Make sure to choose quality ingredients, especially when it comes to pork, green chilies, garlic, cumin, and other key spices. Freshness matters greatly in these flavors as they quickly lose their potency once stale or of poor quality.

By following the instructions above and incorporating the given tips for tasting and serving your slow cooker pork green chili recipe, you’ll be able to create an authentic dish that will impress even the most discerning palates.

After 6 hours, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

To create the perfect slow cooker pork green chili recipe, follow these instructions step by step.

First and foremost, prepare all the ingredients before starting to cook. Chop the onion, bell peppers, jalapenos, and cilantro according to your preference. Make sure you have all the necessary spices, including cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and ground pork.

Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add some oil to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent. This should take around 5-7 minutes.

Add the diced bell peppers, jalapenos, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent them from burning.

After preparing the vegetable mixture, add it to the slow cooker along with the ground pork. Break the pork down into small pieces using a spoon or your hands, ensuring that everything is evenly distributed throughout the pot.

In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, green chilies, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the spices.

Add the spice mixture to the slow cooker with the pork and vegetable mixture. Make sure everything is coated evenly, then cover the pot with a lid.

Cook the pork green chili on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together perfectly, and the pork will become tender.

Once you have completed the cooking process, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste preferences. Be careful not to overseason the chili, as it may become too spicy or salty.

Serve the pork green chili hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, scallions, or crumbled tortilla chips if desired. Enjoy this delicious and hearty meal with a warm tortilla or some crusty bread on the side!

Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or crushed tortilla chips.

To make this delicious Slow Cooker Pork Green Chili, follow these instructions and tips:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients, including pork shoulder or butt, diced tomatoes, chopped green chilies, onion powder, and your favorite toppings.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic (Optional)

If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, sauté a medium onion and a few cloves of garlic in a pan with some oil until they’re softened.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics to the Slow Cooker

Add the sautéed onion and garlic (if using), along with the pork shoulder or butt, diced tomatoes, chopped green chilies, and onion powder to the slow cooker.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in your favorite broth, such as chicken or beef stock, and add some water if needed. Make sure the ingredients are covered by the liquid.

Step 5: Let it Cook!

Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the pork to become tender.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or crushed tortilla chips. You can also serve it with some crusty bread or over rice if you prefer.

Tips:

* Use fresh and high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor.

* Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by adding more or less green chilies.

* If using a slow cooker, make sure to brown the pork in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker for added flavor.

* Consider making a big batch and freezing some for later use – this chili freezes beautifully!