Smoky Tex-Mex Pork and Squash Stew

Calabacita con Puerco Recipe

Overview

Calabacita con Puerco is a hearty Tex-Mex stew that brings together tender pork, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices into a comforting one-dish meal. It’s a versatile dish rooted in Southwestern U.S. and Mexican culinary traditions, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe yields approximately 12 servings, making it ideal for larger gatherings or for leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

Instructions

1. Preparation:

   • Start by heating the shortening in a Dutch oven or a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
   • While the shortening is heating, prepare the pork by cutting it into cubes. Once the shortening is hot, brown the pork cubes in batches until they are evenly browned on all sides. This step helps to develop rich flavor in the stew.

2. Vegetable Preparation:

   • In the meantime, prepare the vegetables. Place the serrano chilies and onions in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Alternatively, chop them by hand for a chunkier texture.
   • Using a mortar and pestle, grind together the garlic cloves, ground cumin, and salt until they form a coarse paste. This step enhances the aroma and flavor of the spices.

3. Cooking the Stew:

   • Once all the pork is browned, return it all to the pot.
   • Add the chopped chilies and onions to the pot with the pork. Cook over high heat until the onions become translucent and the vegetables are fragrant.

4. Adding Flour:

   • Sprinkle the flour evenly over the pork and vegetables. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the flour coats everything evenly. This step helps to thicken the stew.

5. Incorporating Remaining Ingredients:

   • Add the diced squash, whole kernel corn, Rotel diced tomatoes (with their juices), salt, and black pepper to the pot.
   • Pour in enough water to almost cover the pork and vegetables. Start with about 1 can of water (using the Rotel diced tomatoes can for measurement), and adjust as needed during cooking to maintain the desired consistency.

6. Simmering:

   • Bring the stew to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
   • Let the stew simmer gently for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. Check periodically and add more water if the stew becomes too thick.

7. Final Touches:

   • After 2 hours, the pork should be tender and the flavors well-developed. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
   • Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. This stew pairs wonderfully with warm tortillas or rice, offering a satisfying and delicious meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 270
• Total Fat: 12.9g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 78.2mg
• Sodium: 533.4mg
• Carbohydrates: 12.8g
  • Fiber: 2.2g
  • Sugar: 3.7g
• Protein: 26.1g

Tips for Success:

• Flavor Enhancement: Grinding the garlic, cumin, and salt together adds depth to the stew. However, if you prefer a quicker method, you can blend them with the chilies and onions.
• Consistency: Adjust the amount of water based on your preference for a thicker or soupier stew.
• Storage: This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freezes beautifully. Simply cool it completely before storing in airtight containers.

Conclusion

Calabacita con Puerco is a soul-warming dish that reflects the vibrant flavors of the Southwestern U.S. and Mexican cuisines. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as the centerpiece of a festive gathering, this stew is sure to delight with its tender pork, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this Tex-Mex classic! 🌶🍲