If you're craving a dish that embodies the bold flavors of the Southwest, look no further than this mouthwatering Hatch Chile Pulled Pork! Imagine succulent, tender pork shoulder infused with the smoky heat of roasted hatch chiles, nestled in a savory mix of onions and garlic. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this pulled pork is sure to impress. Ready to transform your dinner table? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Southwestern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 cup hatch chiles, roasted and chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the pork shoulder by patting it dry with paper towels and generously seasoning all sides with salt, pepper, and cumin.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic, then roast and chop the hatch chiles if not already prepared.
- Place the seasoned pork shoulder in a slow cooker, creating a bed of diced onions and garlic underneath the meat.
- Sprinkle the roasted hatch chiles evenly over and around the pork shoulder, ensuring good coverage.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat, cooking for 8 hours until the meat is tender and easily falls apart with a fork.
- Once cooking is complete, remove the pork shoulder and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Using two forks, shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and mix with the accumulated cooking juices and chiles to enhance flavor.
- Serve hot in tacos, burritos, over rice, or as a standalone protein with your favorite sides.
Tips
- Choosing the Right Pork: Opt for a well-marbled pork shoulder, as the fat will render during cooking, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- Prep Ahead: For an even more convenient meal, season the pork shoulder the night before and let it marinate in the fridge. This enhances the flavors and saves you time on cooking day.
- Customize the Heat: Hatch chiles can vary in heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, use fewer chiles or mix in some sweet bell peppers.
- Slow and Low: Cooking on low heat for the full 8 hours is key to achieving that fall-apart tenderness. Resist the urge to crank up the heat!
- Serving Suggestions: This pulled pork is incredibly versatile. Serve it in tacos, burritos, or over rice, and don’t forget to top it with your favorite garnishes like fresh cilantro, lime, or avocado.
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months. The flavors only get better with time!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 436kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 42g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 133mg
