Chicos with Pork

Ingredients:

1 ½ Pounds Pork, cubed

2 Cups Chicos, rinsed

½ Onion, chopped fine

2 Cloves Garlic, minced

2 Quarts Water

2 Tablespoons Olive Oil

2-3 Red Chile Pods, stems removed and seeded

Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1:

In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat sauté pork pieces in olive oil until just brown on all sides.

Pre-heat oven to 375 F.

Add onion to pot and continue to sauté until onions are transparent.

Add garlic and season with salt and pepper.

Sauté for 2-3 minutes then add chicos and cover with water.

Snip chile pods into pot with kitchen shears, cover with lid and cook in oven for about 4 hours on until chicos are tender.

Step 2:

Serve plain or with red or green chile.

*Please note you can also cook in a pressure cooker for 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Notes:

Traditional Ingredients:

The recipe uses common ingredients found in Southwestern cuisine, such as pork, chicos (dried corn), onion, garlic, and red chile pods.

These ingredients contribute to the hearty and flavorful nature of the dish.

Cooking Method:

The use of a Dutch oven for initial sautéing and then oven cooking at 375°F allows for even heat distribution and slow cooking, which helps tenderize the pork and rehydrate the chicos effectively.

Alternatively, a pressure cooker can be used for those seeking a quicker cooking time.

Flavor Enhancements:

Sautéing the pork in olive oil until browned adds depth and richness to the dish.

Onions and garlic are sautéed until transparent, which enhances their sweetness and aromatic qualities.Seasoning with salt and pepper ensures that the dish is well-flavored.

Snipping the chile pods into the pot releases their spicy flavor gradually throughout the cooking process.

Cooking Time and Temperature:

Slow cooking in the oven for about 4 hours at 375°F allows the flavors to develop fully and ensures that the chicos become tender.

The pressure cooker option significantly reduces the cooking time to 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a convenient alternative for busy cooks.

Serving Suggestions:

The dish can be served plain for a simple yet satisfying meal, or it can be accompanied by red or green chile for added flavor and heat.

Adaptability:

This recipe can be adapted to personal preferences by adjusting the spice level with the amount of red chile pods used or by substituting ingredients to suit dietary restrictions or flavor preferences.

Nutritional Considerations:

While the dish is hearty and flavorful, it’s important to note that it may be high in calories, fat, and carbohydrates due to the pork and chicos.

Adjustments can be made to portion sizes or ingredient choices for those with specific dietary goals.

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 383.7 kcal | Protein: 25.8 g | Fat: 21 g | Carbohydrates: 24.3 g | Fiber: 4.5 g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different meat instead of pork?

Yes, you can substitute pork with other meats like chicken or beef, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor profile of the dish.

What are chicos, and where can I find them?

Chicos are dried corn kernels.

They can often be found in the dried goods section of well-stocked grocery stores or specialty food stores.

Can I use canned chicos instead of dried ones?

While canned chicos may be available, they may have a different texture and flavor compared to dried chicos.

It’s best to use dried chicos for this recipe.

How spicy is the dish with the red chile pods?

The spice level can vary depending on personal preference and the number of chile pods used.

Adjust the quantity of chile pods according to your desired spice level.

Can I omit the red chile pods if I don’t like spicy food?

Yes, you can omit the red chile pods if you prefer a milder dish.

You can also substitute them with other herbs or spices for flavor.

Is there a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe?

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

You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes for more flavor.

Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop instead of using an oven?

Yes, you can cook this recipe on the stovetop.

Simply simmer the ingredients in a covered pot over low heat for several hours until the chicos are tender.

How do I know when the chicos are tender?

The chicos should be soft and tender to the bite when they are fully cooked.

You can test them by sampling a few kernels.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What are some serving suggestions for this dish?

This dish can be served as a main course with a side of rice or salad.

You can also serve it with warm tortillas or crusty bread for dipping.

Additionally, topping it with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can add a burst of flavor.