Santiago’s Green Chili Recipe: A Taste of Colorado’s Mexican Cuisine
In the heart of Denver, Colorado, a culinary gem has been dazzling taste buds for generations – Santiago’s Green Chili. This iconic dish is not only a testament to the Mexican settlers in Colorado’s San Luis Valley but also a flavorful blend of culture and tradition. So, what’s the secret behind Santiago’s Green Chili? Let’s dive into the tantalizing world of this beloved recipe.
What is Santiago’s Green Chili Recipe?
Santiago’s Green Chili, often affectionately referred to as “green chili,” is a dish that encapsulates the essence of Colorado’s Mexican cuisine. The dish derives its name from the renowned Santiago’s restaurant in Denver. A concoction of diced pork, aromatic spices, and an abundance of green chilies, this recipe is a fiesta of flavors.
How Does It Taste?
A plate filled with succulent, tender pork, bathed in a vibrant green chili sauce. The taste? A delightful harmony of savory, smoky, and spicy notes that dance on your taste buds. Santiago’s Green Chili is versatile – it pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, nestles snugly in breakfast burritos, or elegantly tops off your morning eggs. It’s a dish that offers warmth and comfort, making it perfect for both spring mornings and winter nights.
Ingredients
Here’s a glimpse of the cast of characters that make up Santiago’s Green Chili:
- 1 lb of diced pork, precision-cut for the perfect bite
- 1/2 cup of lard, plus an additional 1 tbsp for that extra touch
- 4 cloves of garlic, pressed to release their magic
- 1 cup of finely chopped onions, the unsung heroes of flavor
- 1 1/2 tbsp of ground dry mustard powder, adding depth
- 1 tsp of black pepper, for a subtle kick
- 1 tsp of dried oregano, a hint of the Mediterranean
- 1/4 tsp of dried sage, imparting earthiness
- 1/4 tsp of ground cumin, the secret spice
- 14-oz can of diced tomatoes, bringing a touch of acidity
- 6 oz of tomato paste, for that rich tomato flavor
- 3 cans of chicken broth, the liquid backbone
- 1 1/2 cups of green chilies, either mild or hot, or a mix of both, the star of the show
- 1 1/2 cups of canned jalapeños, the fiery sidekick
- 1 cup of flour, the key to the perfect roux
- 2 cups of water, for consistency
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s embark on the culinary adventure of preparing Santiago’s Green Chili:
- Begin by pureeing the green chilies, jalapeños, and diced tomatoes in a blender or food processor. The result should be a tantalizing puree, a hint of things to come.
- Heat a large pot, add 1 tablespoon of lard, and introduce the diced pork. Cook until it takes on a glorious shade of brown.
- The onions join the party next. Cook them for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and aromatic.
- Add the spices and pressed garlic to the mix. Let them infuse their essence for another minute.
- It’s time for the star of the show – the pureed green chilies, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, 1 can of chicken broth, and 1 cup of water. Let them mingle over low heat for an hour, creating a symphony of flavors.
- Now, stir in 6 oz of tomato paste, allowing the chili to simmer further.
- The roux is your next project. Melt 1/2 cup of lard in a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat. Add in the flour and 2 tbsp of chicken bouillon. Keep stirring as the roux thickens. Gradually, add small quantities of the leftover can of chicken broth and water until the consistency is just right.
- Mix the roux into the green chili until the dish is perfectly blended. Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes.
- This culinary masterpiece can be served over breakfast burritos, with tortilla chips, eggs, or simply on its own. For those who prefer a slow approach, let it simmer in a crockpot for several hours, adding salt and pepper to taste.
Nutrition Information
Santiago’s Green Chili not only tantalizes the taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch. The green chilies offer an abundance of vitamins and antioxidants, including vitamin C and beta-carotene, known to protect against cancer. So, savor the flavors while nourishing your body.
What to Serve with Santiago’s Green Chili Recipe
The beauty of Santiago’s Green Chili lies in its versatility. Here are some delicious pairings:
- Green chili complements meats like beef, pork, chicken, and fish. It’s also a delightful addition to potatoes and eggs, elevating any dish with a touch of heat.
- For a quick and satisfying meal, consider pairing it with tacos. Just layer some meat, add salsa and green chili, and wrap it in a tortilla for a delightful treat.
- Those seeking a spicy breakfast can enhance their morning with scrambled eggs, tortillas, or huevos rancheros, all elevated with a dollop of homemade chili.
- Santiago’s Green Chili, often milder than red chili, pairs perfectly with chicken and fish, enhancing their flavors without overpowering them.
How to Store and Reheat
Wondering how to keep your Santiago’s Green Chili fresh for future feasts? Simply store it in an unopened jar in the fridge, where it can linger for up to 12 months. Once the jar is opened, savor it within two months.
Santiago’s Green Chili is not just a dish; it’s a tradition, a celebration of flavors, and a piece of Colorado’s culinary history. With this recipe, you can embark on a culinary journey that spans generations and borders, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the enticing aroma of Santiago’s Green Chili fill your home, making you the star chef of your own Mexican culinary adventure. Enjoy!