Created on February 22nd, 2025 at 06:18 pm
Table of Contents
The Recipe
Green Chili Stew Recipe

Discover the perfect Green Chili Stew recipe! Packed with spices and tender meat, this dish will become your new favorite comfort food.
Type: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Keywords: Green Chili Stew Recipe, Best Green Chili Stew, Southwest Green Chili Stew, Pork Green Chili Stew, Hearty Green Chili Stew, Easy Green Chili Stew Recipe, Slow Cooker Green Chili Stew, Spicy Green Chili Stew, Homemade Green Chili Stew, Green Chili Stew with Hatch Chiles, Comfort Food Stew Recipe
Recipe Yield: 6-8 servings
Calories: 350 calories per serving
Preparation Time: PT15M
Cooking Time: PT1H30M
Total Time: PT1H45M
Recipe Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder (or pork butt), cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 2-3 fresh New Mexico Hatch chiles (or 3-4 Anaheim chiles)
- 4 tomatillos, halved
- 6-8 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 lb mild Hatch green chiles
- 2 poblano chiles
- 3 serrano chiles
- 2 jalapeños
- 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 quart low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tbsp canola oil (for sautéing)
- 2 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tbsp Mexican oregano
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons salt (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon white pepper (to taste)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Optional: 2 tbsp sour cream for a creamy finish
- Optional: 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup cold water (for thickening)
Listen to the Podcast

February 22, 2025 · Season 2 : Chop and Pop · Episode 11
10 Min · By Sorrel Calver
Discover the perfect Green Chili Stew recipe! Packed with spices and tender meat, this dish will become your new favorite comfort food.
How to Make Green Chili Stew:
- 1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by prepping the ingredients. Cut the pork shoulder into 2-inch cubes. Quarter the onion, halve the tomatillos, and smash the garlic cloves. Remove the seeds from the Hatch, poblano, serrano, and jalapeño chiles, then chop them into smaller pieces.
- 2. Brown the Meat:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and sear them for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. This step helps lock in the flavor and creates a delicious base for the stew.
- 3. Cook the Stew:
- Once the meat is browned, add the quartered onions, chopped chiles, tomatillos, garlic, and Yukon gold potatoes to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, and stir in the cumin, coriander, oregano, black pepper, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 60 to 90 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- 4. Adjust the Thickness (Optional):
- If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water to form a slurry. Stir this into the stew and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
- 5. Final Touches:
- Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt and white pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for extra richness (if desired). Serve hot!
Slow Cooker Method:
If you prefer a slow-cooked stew, follow these steps:
- Brown the pork in a skillet as instructed above.
- Transfer the browned pork, onions, tomatillos, chiles, garlic, potatoes, and spices to your slow cooker.
- Add the chicken broth, stir well, and set the slow cooker to low. Cook for 6-8 hours, until the meat is tender and the flavors have developed.
Tips for the Best Green Chili Stew Experience:
- Use Quality Chiles: The flavor of the stew relies heavily on the type of green chiles used. Hatch chiles are a popular choice for their smokiness, but poblano, serrano, and jalapeño peppers also work wonderfully. Adjust the quantity depending on your spice tolerance.
- Thickening the Stew: If you like a thicker stew, don’t hesitate to use the cornstarch slurry. It’ll give the broth a silky texture that’s perfect for spooning over rice or dipping with cornbread.
- Adjust Spice Level: Want more heat? Add extra serrano or jalapeño chiles. For a milder stew, use fewer spicy chiles and opt for a more generous amount of poblano.
- Vegetarian Option: To make this stew vegetarian, swap the pork for black beans and quinoa. You’ll still get a hearty, filling dish without the meat.
- Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months for easy meal prep.
Summary:
This Green Chili Stew is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you cook it on the stovetop for a quick weeknight meal or slow cook it for deep, rich flavors, this recipe offers flexibility and delicious results every time. With tender pork, spicy green chiles, and aromatic spices, this stew is bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferred spice level and dietary needs, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or festive gatherings.
Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction this stew brings with every spoonful!
For The Reading Lovers!
Imagine it’s a chilly evening, and you have friends over for dinner. You’ve been thinking all day about what special dish to make. A hearty green chili stew recipe comes to mind—it’s perfect for warming up and impressing your guests.
I remember the first time I made this savory green chili stew for a family gathering. The kitchen filled with a delicious aroma. As we sat down, our bowls were filled with rich broth and tender meat. It was the comforting meal we all needed.
Green chili stew is rooted in traditional Southwest and Mexican cuisines. It’s a beloved dish for many. Whether it’s for a festive gathering, a cozy family dinner, or a quick, comforting meal, this stew is ideal. And the best part? You’ll enjoy both making and eating it!

Key Takeaways
- Quick and Easy: Prep time is just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- One-Pot Wonder: This easy one-pot stew minimizes clean-up time, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal.
- Versatile for Gatherings: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive event, this stew is a crowd-pleaser.
- Rich Nutritional Value: At just 270 calories per serving, it’s a wholesome meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
- Flavor-Packed: From the smoky paprika to the tangy green chiles, each spoonful oozes rich flavors.
- Adaptable Ingredients: Options for using pork or substituting with vegetarian choices for varied tastes.
- Comfort Food: Perfect for warming up on those chilly nights.
Why You’ll Love This Green Chili Stew
Imagine enjoying a bowl of flavorful green chili stew. It’s rich in taste and easy to make. This authentic southwest recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. Here’s why.
Rich and Hearty Flavors
The stew combines tender pork shoulder, chopped green chilies, and spices. It creates a rich flavor that warms you up. Cumin, coriander, and garlic add an aromatic depth to each bite.
Using Hatch, poblano, or serrano chilis makes the stew a delightful taste adventure.

Perfect for Any Gathering
This stew is great for any occasion, from family dinners to festive gatherings. It serves up to eight people, making it a perfect centerpiece. Its moderate spice level suits many tastes.
The rich broth and tender meat ensure everyone leaves happy. You can also offer a spicy vegetarian stew option for different diets.
Easy to Make
This recipe is easy and stress-free. Prep time is just 15 minutes, and cooking takes 25 minutes. You’ll have a delicious meal ready quickly.
If you prefer slow-cooked flavors, use your slow cooker. This way, you can enjoy the process and the result without much effort.
Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown for you:
Nutritional Component | Amount Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 426 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 26 g |
Protein | 39 g |
Fat | 18 g |
Saturated Fat | 5 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Vitamin C | 13 mg |
Iron | 4 mg |
With a little time, you’ll make a meal that boosts your cooking skills. It’s nourishing and satisfying. So, start cooking your flavorful green chili stew today!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make homemade chili verde, you need the right stuff. This part will cover the main ingredients for chili stew. We’ll also look at the spices and seasonings that make this Mexican stew recipe special.
Key Components
Start with quality meats for a rich green chili stew. A classic Mexican stew recipe calls for:
- 2 pounds of pork shoulder or pork butt, chopped into 2-inch pieces
- 2-3 fresh New Mexico Hatch chiles (spicier) or 3-4 Anaheim chiles
- Waxy potatoes, about 1 pound
- 1 onion (quartered)
- 4 tomatillos (halved)
- 6-8 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1 pound mild Hatch green chiles
- 2 Poblano chiles
- 3 Serrano chiles
- 2 Jalapeños

Remember, 4 cups of water or broth are needed to mix all these ingredients into a delicious stew.
Spices and Seasonings
Spices add depth to homemade chili verde. Key ingredients for chili stew include:
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1/2 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- Optional: 8-10 fresh epazote leaves
Also, use about 1/4 cup of canola oil for sautéing. Adding 2 tablespoons of sour cream at the end gives it a creamy feel.
Seasonal changes affect some ingredients. Hatch chiles are only available from late August to September. The recent droughts have made them harder to find. Choosing the right chile is key to getting the heat just right.
With these ingredients and spices, you’re ready to make a traditional Mexican stew recipe. It will be full of flavor and very satisfying!
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Exploring the world of green chili stew is a fun journey. It’s even more enjoyable when you follow a step-by-step cooking process. This guide will make your experience both fun and rewarding. You’ll end up with a delicious, savory meal that everyone will enjoy.

Prepping the Meat
Start by cutting your pork shoulder into 1/2-inch cubes. Then, coat these pieces with 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. This step helps thicken your stew as it cooks.
In a hot skillet, brown the meat. Sear each side for about 3 to 5 minutes until browned. This creates a golden crust that adds flavor to your stew.
Cooking the Stew
Once the meat is browned, proceed with cooking the stew. You can use a slow cooker or a large pot. Combine the browned meat with yellow onions, medium-spicy Hatch green chiles, and Yukon gold potatoes.
Use one quart of low-sodium chicken broth as the liquid. For a slow cooker, set it to low and cook for 8 hours. On the stovetop, simmer for 60 to 90 minutes. Add potatoes in the last 30 minutes.
Final Touches
As your stew nears the end, add the final touches. Season to taste with salt and white pepper. Stir in fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
If you want a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water. Stir into the stew and cook for 10 more minutes. Now, your easy one-pot stew is ready to impress your guests.
Cooking Methods: Slow Cooker vs. Stovetop
Choosing how to make your green chili stew depends on your schedule and taste preferences. We’ll look at the benefits of slow cooker and stovetop cooking. Both ways make a delicious stew, but they differ in effort and time.
Slow Cooker Instructions
A slow cooker is great for busy days. It cooks the stew slowly, making it rich and flavorful. Here’s how to make a tasty slow cooker green chili stew:
- Start by searing the 2 pounds of stewing beef in 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. This step seals in the juices and adds depth to the flavor.
- Transfer the beef to the slow cooker and add 1 sliced or diced onion and 84 ounces of canned tomatoes.
- Add a 15.5-19-ounce can each of kidney beans and mixed beans, a 6-ounce can of tomato paste, and approximately 1.25 ounces of chili seasoning.
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and give the mixture a good stir.
- Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6 to 8 hours. The extended cooking time allows the meat to become incredibly tender, absorbing all the flavors.
- Towards the end of the cooking time, check for seasoning and adjust if necessary. Serve warm, topped with your favorite garnishes.

Stovetop Instructions
If you’re short on time but want green chili stew, try the stovetop method. It’s quick and delicious, ready in about an hour:
- Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. over medium-high heat. Brown the 2 pounds of stewing beef until all sides are seared.
- Add the sliced or diced onion and cook until softened.
- Mix in 84 ounces of canned tomatoes, a 15.5- to 19-ounce can of both kidney beans and mixed beans, a 6-ounce can of tomato paste, and 1.25 ounces of chili seasoning.
- Add 2 cups of chicken broth, bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Allow the stew to simmer for about 1.5 hours, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking.
- If the meat isn’t tender enough, extend the simmering time by an additional 30 minutes.
- Before serving, taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Enjoy your hearty stovetop green chili stew alongside crusty bread or over rice.
Whether you choose slow cooker or stovetop green chili, you’ll enjoy it. Each method highlights different flavors, making both worth trying.
Variations and Substitutions
Adapting your green chili stew to fit different tastes and spice levels makes it fun for everyone. You can make a hearty spicy vegetarian stew or try out different chile options. There are countless ways to customize your chili stew.
Vegetarian Alternative
To make a spicy vegetarian stew, swap the meat for beans and grains. Black beans and quinoa are great choices. They add texture and nutrition. Cooking them with veggies and spices creates a delicious meal.

Different Types of Chiles
Using different chile peppers changes the flavor and heat of your chili stew. You can mix mild to fiery chiles. Try using 1 cup of mild poblanos with 2 cups of medium hatch chiles. Or add a few jalapeños for more heat.
Chile Pepper | Flavor Profile | Heat Level |
---|---|---|
Poblano | Rich, slightly sweet | Mild |
Hatch | Earthy, mildly spicy | Medium |
Jalapeño | Bright, hot | High |
By trying out different chile options, you can make chili stew just right for you and your guests. Enjoy experimenting!
Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Green Chili Stew
Enhancing your green chili stew experience is simple with the right side dishes. The richness of this hearty stew begs for complementary flavors and textures. Wondering what to serve with chili stew? Let’s dive into meal pairing ideas that make a complete chili meal!
Start with a classic: a slice of warm cornbread. Its sweet yet slightly savory taste is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. If you’re looking for a refreshing contrast, try cilantro-lime rice. It adds a zesty touch to your meal pairing ideas while balancing the stew’s spice.
For something crunchy and light, a crisp garden salad with a lime vinaigrette is an ideal accompaniment. The acidity from the lime helps cut through the stew’s richness, creating a delightful balance. Want to add an element of indulgence? A side of cheesy chile cornbread or creamy mashed potatoes fits the bill perfectly, with each bite complementing the textures of your chili stew.
If you lean towards a healthier side, roasted cauliflower or a quinoa salad enriched with vegetables provides an appealing contrast to the spiciness of the stew. Speaking of contrasts, crunchy radish chips or a bowl of vibrant Mexican coleslaw can heighten your dining experience with their diverse textures and flavors.
For dipping enthusiasts, you can’t go wrong with tortilla chips and guacamole. The creamy avocado dip nicely contrasts the hearty stew, often becoming a favorite at family gatherings. Nachos offer an easy and customizable option for those who love a bit of everything in their meal.
For a complete chili meal, don’t overlook classic comfort foods like baked potatoes or red beans and rice. These sides don’t just fill you up but also add an extra layer of satisfaction to your dining experience. Corn on the cob and savory roasted root vegetables, such as beets or parsnips, also serve as versatile, delicious additions.
When planning your next meal, remember these pairing suggestions to elevate your green chili stew. Whether you go creamy, crunchy, or fresh, each side dish offers a unique enhancement to your culinary adventure.
Nutrition Facts and Serving Size
Knowing the green chili stew’s nutritional info helps you choose wisely. Each serving has 217 calories, with 90 from fat. It’s a low-calorie choice, great for a healthy diet.
One serving gives you 27 grams of protein, meeting a big part of your daily protein needs. It has only 45 milligrams of sodium, making it good for your heart. The total carbs are 11 grams, with 2 grams of fiber for your gut health.
For those watching their fat intake, each serving has 6.5 grams of saturated fat and 1.5 grams of trans fat. It also has 2.0 grams of polyunsaturated fat and 2.5 grams of monounsaturated fat. Cholesterol is 56 milligrams per serving.
To maximize the green chili stew’s nutritional benefits, adjust serving sizes to fit your needs. It’s perfect for family meals or planning meals for the week. Its nutritional balance is both satisfying and healthy.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
---|---|---|
Calories | 217 kcal | |
Calories from Fat | 90 kcal | |
Total Fat | 10 g | 15% |
Saturated Fat | 6.5 g | |
Trans Fat | 1.5 g | |
Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | |
Monounsaturated Fat | 2.5 g | |
Cholesterol | 56 mg | |
Sodium | 79 mg | 2% |
Total Carbohydrates | 11 g | 1% |
Dietary Fiber | 2 g | 4% |
Sugars | 5 g | |
Added Sugars | 0 g | |
Protein | 27 g | 40% |
Vitamin C | 1.7 mg | 2% |
Calcium | 30 mg | 3% |
Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% |
This stew not only tastes great but also offers many health benefits. It’s perfect for those looking for healthy meals. It’s a key recipe for any kitchen.
Tips for Storing and Reheating Green Chili Stew
Keeping your green chili stew tasty after storing is important. The right ways to store and reheat can make a big difference. Here, we’ll share meal prep tips to keep your stew fresh and flavorful.
Storing Tips
Store your homemade green chili stew in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It stays good in the fridge for 5-7 days. It’s often more flavorful the next day, as the flavors blend better.
For longer storage, freeze it. This stew freezes well for up to 3-6 months, perfect for meal prep. Always label the containers with the date to track how long it’s been stored.
Reheating Tips
Reheating your chili stew is easy when you need it. For individual servings, use the microwave. Heat on high for 90-120 seconds, stirring halfway to heat evenly.
For stovetop reheating, put the stew in a pot and warm it on low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This method takes 7-10 minutes for individual servings and 10-12 minutes for a larger meal. Gentle warming keeps the stew’s rich flavors and textures intact.
FAQ
What are the essential ingredients for green chili stew?
To make green chili stew, you’ll need beef tenderloin, pork loin, and fresh green chilies. Also, add potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and masa harina. Don’t forget the spices like cumin, garlic, and cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs like cilantro and oregano add a special touch.
How do you make green chili stew in a slow cooker?
Start by browning the coated beef and pork in a skillet. Then, put them in the slow cooker with onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and spices. Allow it to cook on low for 8 hours. This way, the flavors blend well and the meat gets tender.
Can I make a vegetarian version of this stew?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version. Use beans and quinoa instead of meat. This keeps the stew hearty and flavorful, great for different diets.
What types of green chilies can I use?
You can pick from mild poblanos or spicy jalapeños. The choice lets you adjust the stew’s heat and flavor.
How do I store and reheat green chili stew?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. It also freezes well for meal prep.
What are some good sides to serve with green chili stew?
Serve it with warm cornbread or cilantro-lime rice. A crisp garden salad with lime vinaigrette also works well.
Is green chili stew healthy?
Green chili stew is nutritious, with proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It’s low in calories, making it a nutritious option. Adjust portion sizes to suit your dietary needs.
What spices are essential for a flavorful green chili stew?
Use cumin, garlic, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), and fresh herbs like cilantro and oregano. These spices give the stew its unique Southwest and Mexican flavor.
How long does it take to cook green chili stew on the stovetop?
Cooking it on the stovetop takes about 40 minutes. This method is quicker, perfect for when you’re in a hurry.