Classic Mexican Chili Colorado – Get ready to dive into a heartwarming. And flavorful journey. With our Classic Mexican Chili Colorado. This recipe brings together tender pork cubes, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of aromatic spices. To create a traditional Mexican dish. That’s perfect for any meal.
The first time I made this Classic Mexican Chili Colorado. My kitchen was filled with the tantalizing aroma of sizzling pork. And simmering spices. I remember my husband walking in. Eyes wide with excitement. And my child eagerly peeking over the countertop. Both were drawn in by the irresistible smell. When we finally sat down to eat. The flavors were a revelation – rich, comforting, and deeply satisfying. It’s become a beloved dish in our household. Bringing smiles to our faces. Every time it’s served.
What makes this Classic Mexican Chili Colorado truly standout?
This recipe is all about simplicity. And depth of flavor. With minimal ingredients. And straightforward steps. You can create a dish. That’s bursting with rich. And complex flavors. The use of bacon drippings. Adds a smoky depth. While the combination of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Provides an authentic Mexican taste. It’s a perfect balance of tender meat. And robust sauce. That makes it a standout dish.
What You Need To Make This Classic Mexican Chili Colorado Recipe?
All-purpose flour: Helps to lightly coat the pork. Giving it a nice sear. And adding a bit of thickness to the sauce.
Boneless pork: Choose a tender cut like pork shoulder. For the best texture. And flavor.
Bacon drippings or vegetable oil: Bacon drippings add a smoky flavor. But vegetable oil works great too.
Chopped onion: Adds a sweet. And savory base to the dish.
Tomato sauce: Gives a rich and slightly tangy flavor. Tying the whole dish together.
Chili powder: Brings heat and depth. Essential for that authentic chili flavor.
Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone. That complements the chili powder perfectly.
Garlic powder: Infuses a subtle, aromatic garlic flavor. Without overpowering the dish.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning. Enhancing all the other flavors.
Water: Helps to simmer the pork. Until it’s tender and juicy.
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Steps To Make Classic Mexican Chili Colorado:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork: Toss the pork cubes with 3 tablespoons of flour in a plastic bag. Until they’re lightly coated. Set them aside.
Step 2: Brown the Pork: Heat the bacon drippings and vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork and cook. Stirring occasionally. Until it’s evenly browned. About 5 to 8 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Sauce: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over the pork and stir it in. Cooking for another 3 minutes. Add the chopped onion, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Simmer: Pour in the water. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low. And let it simmer. Until the pork is just falling apart. About 1 ½ to 2 hours.
Step 5: Serve: Enjoy your Classic Mexican Chili Colorado with warm tortillas. Or over a bed of rice for a comforting meal.
Tip:
For an extra depth of flavor. Try toasting your chili powder and cumin. Before adding them to the dish. In a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the chili powder and cumin. Stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes. Until they become fragrant. This simple step intensifies the spices. And brings out their rich, smoky flavors. Making your Chili Colorado even more delicious. Be careful not to burn them. As this can create a bitter taste.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes. You can substitute chicken for pork. Chicken thighs would be a great alternative. Providing a similar tender and juicy texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat. Add an extra teaspoon of chili powder. Or a chopped jalapeño pepper. When adding the onion.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Classic Mexican Chili Colorado
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ lb boneless pork cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp bacon drippings or vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¼ c chopped onion
- 1 4 oz can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 c water
Instructions
- Coat the Pork: Place 3 tbsp of flour and pork cubes in a plastic bag and shake to coat.
- Brown the Pork: Heat bacon drippings and vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork and brown it for 5-8 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in 1 tbsp flour, then add onion, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3 minutes.
- Simmer: Pour in water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours until pork is tender.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
