If you're on the hunt for a tantalizing dish that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds, look no further than this Crock Pot Citrus Pork Chili! Bursting with vibrant flavors from zesty orange and lime, this Mexican-inspired chili is not just a meal; it's an experience. Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of tender, juicy pork simmering away, ready to be devoured. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy. Get ready to dive into a bowl of comfort that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cubed
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the meat by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder and cutting it into 1-inch cubes. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to ensure better browning.
- Season the pork cubes generously with salt, pepper, and chili powder, making sure each piece is evenly coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Brown the pork cubes in batches, turning to create a golden crust on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to the chili.
- Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic. Juice the orange and lime, ensuring you remove any seeds.
- Transfer the browned pork cubes to the crock pot. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, drained black beans, and diced tomatoes.
- Pour the fresh orange and lime juice over the ingredients, stirring gently to combine all components.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, allowing the pork to become tender and the flavors to meld together.
- About 30 minutes before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed.
- Once cooking is complete, the pork should be very tender and easily shredded with a fork. Stir the chili to break up the meat slightly.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or diced avocado. Can be accompanied by warm tortillas or rice.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: For the best results, use a well-marbled pork shoulder. The fat will render during cooking, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the pork before adding it to the crock pot is crucial. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your chili and gives it a beautiful color.
- Adjust the Heat: If you like a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the chili powder.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chili sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even further.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your dish with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, slices of avocado, or a sprinkle of cheese. A dollop of sour cream can also add a creamy contrast to the zesty flavors.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your chili with warm tortillas or fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious juices. A side of cornbread can also make for a delightful accompaniment!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
