Carne Adobada I

Carne Adobada I Recipe - A Delicious Mexican Pork Dish

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 60 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Carne Adobada is a traditional Mexican dish that features marinated pork or beef cooked in a flavorful red chile sauce. This dish is known for its rich and spicy flavors, making it a favorite among those who enjoy bold and savory dishes.

History

Carne Adobada has its roots in Mexican cuisine, where it has been enjoyed for generations. The dish is believed to have originated in the state of Chihuahua, where it was traditionally made with pork that was marinated in a spicy red chile sauce before being cooked to perfection.

Ingredients

5 roasted chile pods
1.5 cups of water
2 cloves of minced garlic
0.5 tsp of oregano
0.5 tsp of salt
1.5 lb (680 g) of lean pork steaks

How to prepare

Toast the chiles in an oven at 200°F (93°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Remove the seeds and stems.
Place the chiles and water into a medium-sized pan. Simmer for 15 minutes.
Transfer the chiles and some of the cooking water to a blender. Puree and then strain the mixture. Discard the peels and seeds.
Add the remaining cooking water to the strained chile mixture, along with garlic, oregano, and salt.
Place the pork steaks, either whole or cut into chunks, in a glass baking dish. Top with the chile mixture. Cover and refrigerate for 8-24 hours.
Roast in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 40-60 minutes, or pan fry in a nonstick skillet on the stovetop. Check for doneness using a digital instant-read thermometer. The temperature should be at least 160°F (71°C).

Variations

Substitute pork for beef for a different flavor profile.
Add additional spices like cumin or paprika for a more complex taste.
Use different types of chile pods for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Toasting the chile pods before simmering them helps to enhance their flavor and aroma.

- Straining the chile mixture after blending ensures a smooth and silky sauce.

- Marinating the meat for at least 8 hours allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- Cooking the meat in the oven or on the stovetop ensures that it is cooked evenly and retains its juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

Carne Adobada can be served with rice, beans, tortillas, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the meat in the oven ensures even cooking and a juicy texture.

- Pan-frying the meat on the stovetop creates a crispy exterior and a tender interior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or tofu as a substitute for the meat for a vegetarian option.

- Use canned chile sauce instead of making your own for a quicker preparation.

Make Ahead Tips

Carne Adobada can be marinated in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to develop and intensify.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Carne Adobada on a platter with a garnish of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Carne Adobada pairs well with Mexican rice, refried beans, and a side of guacamole for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Carne Adobada can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Carne Adobada contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

Carne Adobada is a low-carb dish, with only a small amount of carbohydrates coming from the chile pods and garlic used in the marinade.

Fats

The lean steaks used in this recipe provide a good source of protein while keeping the fat content low. The chile sauce adds a small amount of fat to the dish.

Proteins

The lean steaks used in Carne Adobada are a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue.

Vitamins and minerals

The chile pods used in the marinade are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like potassium and iron. These nutrients help to support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic, which may be an allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Carne Adobada is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is low in carbohydrates and fats, while providing a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Carne Adobada is a delicious and flavorful Mexican dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. With its rich and spicy flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Rosa in her little village in Mexico. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most tantalizing aroma of spices and chilies wafting through the air.

Rosa was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of simmering meat that was bathed in a rich, red sauce. "What are you making, Rosa?" I asked, my mouth watering at the sight and smell of the dish before me.

"It's Carne Adobada, my dear," she replied with a smile. "It's a traditional Mexican dish that is marinated in a spicy adobo sauce and then slow-cooked to perfection."

I watched as Rosa deftly added a handful of dried chilies, garlic, cumin, oregano, and vinegar to a blender, creating a vibrant red paste that she then poured over the pork meat in the pot. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Over the course of the afternoon, Rosa patiently taught me the art of making Carne Adobada. She showed me how to choose the right cuts of meat, how to marinate it in the spicy adobo sauce, and how to cook it low and slow until it was tender and flavorful.

As I sat down to enjoy my first taste of Carne Adobada that evening, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire. I thanked Rosa for sharing her knowledge with me and made a mental note to bring this dish back home with me to share with my family.

Back in my own kitchen, I set to work recreating Rosa's Carne Adobada recipe. I carefully selected the ingredients, making sure to use the best quality meat and spices. I lovingly marinated the pork in the adobo sauce, letting the flavors meld and deepen overnight.

The next day, as my family gathered around the dinner table, I proudly served up my version of Carne Adobada. The looks of delight and satisfaction on their faces told me that I had successfully captured the essence of this traditional Mexican dish.

Over the years, I have continued to make Carne Adobada for my family and friends, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. It has become a staple at our gatherings and celebrations, a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories.

I am grateful to Rosa for introducing me to this wonderful recipe and for passing down her knowledge and love of cooking. It is a gift that I will always treasure and continue to share with others for years to come. And so, whenever I make Carne Adobada, I am reminded of that hot summer day in Rosa's kitchen, where I first fell in love with this delicious dish.