Chilorio - Chilied Pork
This fine recipe is a great way to become acquainted with the very flavorful Ancho chile. Chilorio can be served as a main dish or as an hors d’oeuvre with tortillas.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, sliced in 1 inch cubes
- 1 tsp cumin
- 4 ancho chiles
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp oregano (Mexican if possible)
- ½ tsp anise
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- ¼ tsp black peppercorns
- 1/3 cup white vinegar
- ½ tsp salt
Choice of Garnishes
- Cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced avocadoes
- Sliced Spanish onions
- Sliced radishes
Method
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1
In a pan, cover the cubed pork with water. Add salt and bring to a boil.
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2
Reduce heat and cover partially. Let simmer, stirring from time to time, until the water has evaporated and the meat is tender (approx. 40 min.)
-
3
Using a fork, shred the meat. Set aside.
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4
In a hot pan, grill the chiles for 15-30 seconds, turning often until they become fragrant.
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5
Open chiles and remove the stems, placenta and seeds. Place chiles in a bowl and cover with hot water. Allow to soak for 15 minutes. Strain the chiles and reserve the water in which they soaked.
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6
Roast cumin, oregano and peppercorns in a dry pan, on medium heat, for a few seconds. Using a mortar and pestle or an electric grinder, grind the spices coarsely.
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7
In a food processor, blend the chiles, spices, vinegar, garlic and salt.
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8
Add the reserved chili water, if necessary, to obtain the consistency of tomato paste.
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9
Put 4 tbsp of pork fat or olive oil in a pan on medium heat. Add the chili purée and cook for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring constantly until the purée becomes fragrant.
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10
Add the meat and cook for a few more minutes.
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11
Serve with hot tortillas.
