Authentic Mexican Pork Chile Verde Recipe

Experience the explosion of flavors in this authentic Mexican Pork Chile Verde! This recipe delivers fall-apart tender pork simmered in a vibrant, spicy tomatillo sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, your taste buds will thank you.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 210 mins
Calories 1083.8 kcal
Protein 118g
Rating 3.5 (2 Reviews)
Authentic Mexican Pork Chile Verde

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Authentic Mexican Pork Chile Verde

  • Kosher Salt
  • Pure Chile Powder
  • Dried Oregano
  • 2 teaspoons granulated garlic
  • Ground Cumin
  • Pork Shoulder
  • 1 lb tomatillos (husked and rinsed)
  • Green Chilies
  • Garlic Cloves
  • 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
  • Dark Mexican Beer
  • Fresh Cilantro
  • Tabasco Brand Chipotle Pepper Sauce
  • Fresh Ground Black Pepper
  • White Rice
  • sour cream, for serving
  • Lime

How to Make Authentic Mexican Pork Chile Verde

  1. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons salt, 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 2 teaspoons granulated garlic, and 1 tablespoon ground cumin.
  3. Generously coat the pork roast (3-4 lbs) on all sides with the spice rub, pressing it into the meat.
  4. Let the seasoned pork rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
  5. In a food processor or blender, combine 1 lb tomatillos (husked and rinsed), 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chiles, 4 cloves garlic, 1/2 medium onion (chopped), 1 tablespoon oregano, and 1/2 cup beer.
  6. Place the pork roast in a roasting pan and roast for 30 minutes at 500°F (260°C).
  7. Reduce oven temperature to 250°F (120°C).
  8. Transfer the pork to a 13x9-inch heavy-duty disposable drip pan.
  9. Pour the tomatillo mixture around the pork, ensuring it comes up the sides by about 1 inch.
  10. Tightly seal the pan with foil and place in the center of the oven.
  11. Cook for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) and the pork is incredibly tender.
  12. Carefully remove the pan from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes.
  13. Unwrap the pork and transfer it to a cutting board. Shred the pork, discarding any large pieces of fat or tough gristle.
  14. Pour the pan juices into a large saucepan; skim off excess fat.
  15. Add the shredded pork to the saucepan and simmer uncovered for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
  16. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1-2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce (or to taste), and salt and pepper to taste.
  17. The chile verde can be made up to 1 day ahead; refrigerate overnight. Reheat gently before serving.
  18. Serve warm over steamed rice. Garnish with sour cream, lime wedges, and extra Tabasco sauce, if desired.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

58 g

Sugar

17g

Fat

120g

Carbs

21g