This easy pork dish is packed with flavor from tangy tomatillo salsa. Juicy pork is slow-cooked, soaking up all that delicious goodness for a meal that’s sure to please!
I love how it only takes a few ingredients to make this tasty meal! Just toss everything in the pot and relax while it cooks—perfect for busy days or cozy nights in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Butt: These cuts are perfect for slow-cooking due to their fat content, which keeps the meat juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use pork loin, but it’ll be less tender.
Tomatillos: Fresh tomatillos give a bright, tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, try using a mix of green tomatoes and a splash of lime juice for a similar effect.
Jalapeños: Adjust the heat by using more or fewer jalapeños. For milder flavor, use sweet bell peppers or poblano peppers as a substitute.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a colorful touch and herbaceous flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can leave it out or use parsley instead, though the flavor will differ a bit.
How Do I Get the Pork Just Right?
Getting the pork tender is key to this recipe. Start with the right cooking method; here’s how to ensure you achieve tender and flavorful pork:
- Use a heavy pot like a Dutch oven to retain heat evenly.
- Brown the pork in batches to maximize flavor without overcrowding the pot.
- Slow-cook the pork in the oven instead of on the stovetop for more even cooking.
Letting the pork cook for 2.5 to 3 hours is essential to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender. Trust the timing, and you’ll end up with delicious, shredded pork that will soak up all that tangy tomatillo salsa!
Easy Pork in Tangy Tomatillo Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, trimmed and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- For the Salsa:
- 1 lb tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 2-3 jalapeño peppers (adjust to taste)
- 1 medium white onion, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Cooking:
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
Time Estimate:
This dish will take about 20 minutes for prep work, and then you’ll need to cook it for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours in the oven. So, plan for a total of about 3 hours, which includes the time for it to become tender and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Before you get started, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This way, your oven will be ready when you need it!
2. Make the Tomatillo Salsa:
In a blender or food processor, combine the tomatillos, jalapeños, onion, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, and oregano. Blend everything together until smooth. Taste your salsa and add salt and pepper as needed to bring out the flavors.
3. Brown the Pork:
In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chunks in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the pork on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes per batch. Once browned, remove the pork from the pot and set it aside.
4. Combine and Cook:
Pour half of your fresh tomatillo salsa back into the pot and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. This helps to meld the flavors. Next, return the browned pork to the pot and pour the rest of the salsa over the meat. Add in the chicken broth or water and stir everything gently to mix.
5. Slow Cook in the Oven:
Cover your pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let it cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours until your pork becomes super tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Shred the Pork:
After the cooking time is done, carefully remove the pot from the oven. Use two forks to shred the pork in the pot and mix it with that delicious tomatillo salsa. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tangy pork hot! It goes wonderfully with warm tortillas, rice, or any of your favorite sides. Feel free to garnish with a sprinkle of extra fresh cilantro for that fresh kick!
Enjoy this flavorful and tangy pork dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork shoulder or pork butt is ideal for this recipe due to its fat content, you can also use pork loin for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may not be as tender, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make the Tomatillo Salsa Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomatillo salsa in advance! Simply blend the ingredients, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and use it within 1-2 days. This way, you can save time on the day you cook the pork.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This tangy pork pairs wonderfully with warm tortillas, rice, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with refried beans, avocado slices, or chips and guacamole for a complete meal!
