Step 1: Prepare the Hatch Green Chile Sauce
In a blender, combine the Hatch green chiles, cilantro, garlic, salt, and ancho chili seasoning.
Blend until smooth, forming a flavorful green chile sauce.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Pork
Place the pork loin into a slow cooker.
Pour the blended green chile sauce over the pork loin.
Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
Once the pork is cooked and shredded, warm your giant flour tortillas.
Spoon a generous amount of the shredded pork onto each tortilla.
Add your preferred toppings (e.g., sour cream, shredded cheese, diced onions, extra cilantro).
Step 4: Wrap and Serve
Roll the tortillas tightly around the filling, folding in the edges to form burritos.
Serve immediately, or wrap in foil to keep them warm.
Notes:
Slow Cooker Tip: Cooking the pork loin on low for 8 hours ensures it becomes tender and easily shreds, absorbing all the flavors of the Hatch green chile sauce.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, use fewer Hatch green chiles or remove the seeds from them. For a spicier version, you can add extra chiles or use hotter varieties.
Toppings: Customize your burritos with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, or pickled onions for added texture and flavor.
Tortilla Size: While giant flour tortillas are recommended for a hearty burrito, you can use smaller tortillas if you’d prefer individual-sized servings or a lighter meal.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little extra broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Leftovers: This recipe makes great leftovers! The pork and green chile sauce can be used in tacos, quesadillas, or even over rice.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 450 kcal | Protein: 40g | Fat: 30g | Carbohydrates: 40g | Fiber: 5g (from chiles, cilantro, and tortilla) | Sugar: 3g (mostly from the chiles and garlic)
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different cut of pork instead of pork loin?
Yes, you can use other cuts of pork such as pork shoulder or pork butt.
These cuts will have a bit more fat, which will make the stew richer and more flavorful.
Just ensure to cook the pork until it’s tender enough to shred easily in the slow cooker.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chili verde ahead of time.
Cook the pork in the slow cooker and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
You can also freeze the chili verde for up to 2-3 months.
Just reheat it when you’re ready to assemble the burritos.
How spicy will this recipe be?
The spiciness of this recipe will depend on how many serrano peppers you use.
If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the number of serranos or even omit them.
Hatch green chiles are generally mild to medium in heat, so the level of spice can be easily adjusted to suit your preference.
Can I use a different type of tortilla?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for flour tortillas, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer a gluten-free option.
You can also opt for whole wheat tortillas for a slightly healthier alternative.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian or vegan by substituting the pork with plant-based protein such as tofu, tempeh, or soy-based meat alternatives.
Be sure to use a vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain the flavor profile.
Can I use a different type of chili for the sauce?
Yes, if you can’t find Hatch green chiles, you can substitute them with other green chiles like Anaheim or poblano peppers.
However, Hatch chiles are known for their unique flavor and heat, so using them will give the dish an authentic taste.
You can also use canned green chilies in a pinch.
How long do I need to cook the pork in the slow cooker?
The pork should cook on low for about 8 hours.
This slow cooking method allows the pork to become tender and shred easily.
If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it on high for about 4-5 hours, but low and slow gives the best results.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this on the stovetop if you don’t have a slow cooker.
After blending the chili verde sauce, you can simmer it with the pork in a large pot over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the pork is tender.
Just make sure to check occasionally and add more liquid if needed.
What can I use instead of cilantro if I don’t like it?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a milder, herbaceous flavor.
Alternatively, try fresh oregano or a mix of herbs you enjoy, though the flavor will be slightly different.
What toppings should I add to the burritos?
You can get creative with toppings! Common additions include shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Cotija), sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and salsa.
You can also add fresh lime wedges and jalapeños for extra zest.
