Red Chile Beans With Pork

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 pounds pork tenderloin or pork chops cut into ½-inch pieces

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 large onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, crushed or minced

3 tablespoons tomato paste

1 cup cold tap water

1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

3 Cups Potatoes, diced

2 tablespoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons dried oregano

2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (don’t use the whole can)

2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, rinsed

1 (15-ounce) can black beans

4 ounces cheddar cheese, grated

2 limes cut into wedges

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:

Heat the oil in a Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot set over medium-high heat.

Add half of the pork and season with half the salt and pepper.

Sear the pork until browned, transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining pork.

Add more oil if needed.

Step 2:

Add onion and cook, stirring,until they begin to soften.

Add the garlic and cook just until fragrant.

In a small dish add the tomato paste and water and blend until smooth.

Stir into the onion mixture and add the tomatoes, cumin, chipotle, and oregano (do not use the whole can of chipotle peppers. The recipe only calls for two peppers).

Step 3:

Return the seared pork to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil, then add the kidney and black beans to the mixture, stirring to combine.

Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the pork is tender.

Then, add the potatoes and cook until the potatoes are done!

Step 4:

To serve, ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with grated cheddar, lime wedges, and cilantro.

Notes

We used a pork tenderloin, other choices are shoulder, pork roast or chops.

Save the leftover chipotle peppers for another recipe. Scoop out the remaining peppers from the can and portion them into the cavities of an ice cube tray. After freezing, transfer them into a small covered container. They will keep for months in the freezer.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?

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Yes, you can use pork tenderloin or pork chops as suggested in the recipe, but other cuts such as pork shoulder or pork loin can also work well.

Just ensure they are cut into ½-inch pieces for even cooking.

Is it necessary to use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?

Chipotle peppers add a distinct smoky flavor to the dish, but if you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount or omit them altogether.

Adjust according to your taste preferences.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes for canned crushed tomatoes if desired.

Simply chop fresh tomatoes and use them in place of the canned ones, adjusting the quantity to match the recipe.

How long should I simmer the chili after adding the beans?

After adding the kidney and black beans to the mixture, simmer the chili over low heat for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the pork is tender.

This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the pork is fully cooked.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the pork and using vegetable broth instead of water.

Increase the amount of beans or add additional vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added substance and flavor.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork?

Yes, you can substitute pork with other meats like chicken, beef, or turkey.

Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you choose.

Is it okay to omit the chipotle peppers for a milder flavor?

Absolutely! If you prefer a less spicy dish, you can skip the chipotle peppers or reduce the amount according to your taste preferences.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano?

Yes, you can use fresh oregano instead of dried oregano if you have it available.

Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried herbs called for in the recipe.

How long should I simmer the chili after adding the beans?

Simmer the chili over low heat for approximately 25-30 minutes after adding the beans.

This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the pork is tender.

Can I substitute canned potatoes for fresh ones?

While fresh potatoes are recommended for this recipe, you can use canned potatoes as a time-saving alternative.

Just be mindful of the texture, as canned potatoes may be softer than fresh ones.

Is it necessary to use a Dutch oven, or can I use a regular pot?

A Dutch oven is preferred for even cooking, but you can use any large, heavy-bottomed pot for this recipe.

Just ensure it has enough space to accommodate all the ingredients.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can make the chili ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

Red Chile Beans With Pork pairs well with rice, cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad.

You can also serve it with avocado slices or sour cream for added creaminess.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze any leftover chili in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How can I adjust the spice level to my preference?

To increase the spiciness, add more chipotle peppers or include some of the adobo sauce from the can.

To decrease the heat, use fewer chipotle peppers or omit them altogether.

Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes as desired.