New Mexico Green Chile Stew Recipe

Pork shoulder: A flavorful cut of meat that becomes tender when cooked slowly.

Olive oil: Used for browning the pork and sautéing the vegetables.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the stew.

Garlic: Provides a pungent, aromatic flavor.

Chicken broth: Forms the base of the stew, adding richness and depth.

Roasted green chiles: Essential for the authentic New Mexican flavor, adding smokiness and heat.

Potatoes: Adds heartiness and texture to the stew.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the stew.

When browning the pork shoulder, make sure not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding can cause the meat to steam rather than brown, which will affect the depth of flavor in your stew. Brown the meat in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets a nice, caramelized exterior.

• pork shoulder - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs provide a similar texture and richness, making them a good alternative for those who prefer poultry.

• olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a similar smoke point, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in cooking.

• onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, which can add a different but pleasant taste to the stew.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though it is less pungent.

• chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a good alternative for vegetarians or those looking to reduce meat consumption while maintaining a rich flavor.

• roasted green chiles - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers have a similar heat level and flavor profile, making them a good substitute for green chiles.

• potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a different flavor and a slightly sweeter taste, which can add a unique twist to the stew.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, providing depth to the stew.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor but can still provide the necessary heat and spice to the dish.

• Allow the stew to cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation and helps maintain the texture and flavor of the ingredients.

• Transfer the stew to airtight containers. Use containers that are appropriately sized to minimize air space, which helps preserve the flavor and freshness.

• Label the containers with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the stew has been stored, ensuring you consume it while it's still at its best.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pork and potatoes will maintain their texture and flavor within this time frame.

• For longer storage, freeze the stew. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.

• When ready to reheat, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the integrity of the ingredients.

• Reheat the stew on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.

• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe container and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the stew is hot throughout.

• If the stew appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency.

• For stovetop reheating:

  1. Place the leftover New Mexico Green Chile Stew in a saucepan.
  2. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture.
  3. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the stew is heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

• For microwave reheating:

  1. Transfer the stew to a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
  3. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Continue heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.

• For oven reheating:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the stew in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil.
  3. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the stew is thoroughly heated.

• For slow cooker reheating:

  1. Transfer the stew to your slow cooker.
  2. Set the slow cooker to low heat.
  3. Heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the stew is hot.

• For sous vide reheating:

  1. Place the stew in a vacuum-sealed bag or a resealable plastic bag with the air removed.
  2. Set your sous vide machine to 165°F (74°C).
  3. Submerge the bag in the water bath and heat for 30-45 minutes, until the stew is warmed through.

• Large pot: A large pot is essential for browning the pork and simmering the stew. It should be big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.

• Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is useful for stirring the ingredients without scratching the pot.

• Chef's knife: A chef's knife is needed for chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and cubing the pork shoulder and potatoes.

• Cutting board: A cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for chopping and preparing the ingredients.

• Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to measure out the olive oil, salt, and black pepper accurately.

• Measuring cup: A measuring cup is necessary for measuring the chicken broth.

• Peeler: A peeler is used to peel the potatoes before cubing them.

• Tongs: Tongs can be helpful for turning the pork cubes to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.

• Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the stew once it's ready.

• Bowl: A bowl can be used to hold the chopped ingredients before they are added to the pot.

Pre-cut ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, and potatoes in advance to save time during cooking.

Use pre-roasted chiles: Purchase roasted green chiles from the store to skip the roasting step.

Instant pot option: Use an Instant Pot to reduce cooking time significantly.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Pre-season meat: Season the pork shoulder the night before to enhance flavor and save time.