Crockpot Tex-Mex Pork Stew

Crockpot Tex-Mex Pork Stew Recipe - Hearty and Delicious

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 8-10 hours on low, 15-20 minutes on high | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Tex-Mex Pork Stew is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines tender pork loin with flavorful spices, beans, and corn for a satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Tex-Mex Pork Stew is a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with a Texan twist. This dish combines the bold flavors of cumin, oregano, and chili beans with the comforting warmth of a slow-cooked stew. It is a popular dish in the southern United States and is often served at family gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

1 chopped onion
4 minced cloves of garlic
2 lb (907 g) boneless pork top loin
0.25 cup cornmeal
0.5 tsp salt
0.13 tsp white pepper
0.5 tsp cumin seeds
0.5 tsp dried oregano leaves
15 oz (425 g) can of chili beans in sauce, undrained
14 oz (397 g) can of diced tomatoes with onions and garlic, undrained
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups frozen corn, thawed

How to prepare

In a 5 – 6 qt (5.68 liter) crockpot, combine the onion and garlic.
Cut the pork into 1.5" cubes and place them on top of the onions.
In a small bowl, mix together the cornmeal, salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.
Sprinkle the mixture over the pork cubes and mix well to coat them.
Add the undrained chili beans, undrained tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pork mixture.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 – 10 hours or until the pork is thoroughly cooked.
Add the corn, cover the crockpot, and cook on high for 15 – 20 minutes or until the stew is thoroughly heated.

Variations

For a spicier stew, add a diced jalapeno pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Substitute the pork loin with chicken or beef for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For extra flavor, sear the pork cubes in a hot skillet before adding them to the crockpot.

- To save time, you can use pre-cut frozen onions and garlic instead of chopping them yourself.

- Adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences – add more cumin for a smokier flavor or more oregano for a herbier taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Tex-Mex Pork Stew with a side of warm tortillas or cornbread for a complete meal.

- Top the stew with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the stew allows the flavors to meld together and the pork to become tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use canned black beans or kidney beans instead of chili beans.

- Substitute fresh corn kernels for frozen corn if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

This stew can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before reheating and serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Tex-Mex Pork Stew in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a lime wedge.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this stew with a crisp green salad or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers 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

300

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 35g

- Dietary Fiber: 6g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 8g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 30g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Calcium: 6%

- Iron: 20%

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

This Tex-Mex Pork Stew is a well-balanced meal that is rich in protein and fiber. It is low in saturated fat and calories, making it a healthy option for a satisfying dinner.

Summary

Tex-Mex Pork Stew is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Serve it with your favorite toppings and sides for a delicious meal that the whole family will love.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Crockpot Tex-Mex Pork Stew. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a wonderful cook and always had delicious aromas wafting from her stove. On that particular day, she was preparing a special dish that she called Tex-Mex Pork Stew.

As I sat at the kitchen table, watching her expertly chop peppers and onions, I couldn't help but be intrigued by the tantalizing smells coming from the simmering pot on the stove. Maria noticed my curiosity and smiled, gesturing for me to come closer.

"Would you like to learn how to make this dish?" she asked, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

I eagerly nodded, and Maria began to explain the ingredients and steps required to make the stew. She told me that the key to the dish was using a crockpot to slowly cook the pork until it was tender and flavorful. She also stressed the importance of using fresh ingredients, such as ripe tomatoes and fragrant cilantro.

As Maria guided me through the recipe, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill and passion for cooking. She shared stories of how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. Maria's eyes sparkled with nostalgia as she recounted the memories of cooking with her family and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

After several hours of simmering and stirring, the Tex-Mex Pork Stew was finally ready. Maria ladled generous portions into bowls and garnished them with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. As we sat down to enjoy the meal together, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented cook.

Over the years, I have made Maria's Tex-Mex Pork Stew countless times, each time bringing back memories of that hot summer day in her kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of delicious, homemade meals made with love and care.

As I sit here reminiscing about that special day, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. Cooking is not just about following a recipe; it is about sharing stories, traditions, and flavors that have been passed down through generations.

I am grateful to have learned the recipe for Crockpot Tex-Mex Pork Stew from my dear friend Maria, and I will continue to make it with love and gratitude for the memories it holds. Cooking is a gift that connects us to our past and creates a legacy that can be shared with future generations. And for that, I am truly thankful.