Why You’ll Love this Pork Asado Recipe
When you take your first bite of this Pork Asado, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a cherished recipe in many households.
The tender, juicy pork melds beautifully with the rich, flavorful sauce, creating a comforting dish that warms the soul. Each forkful bursts with spices that dance on your palate, leaving you craving more.
It’s not just a meal; it’s a memory, bringing families together around the dinner table. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for serving with rice, tortillas, or even on its own.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked and want to share it with everyone!
Ingredients of Pork Asado
When it comes to making Pork Asado, the ingredients are key to achieving that rich, mouthwatering flavor. You’ll find that this recipe is straightforward, requiring just a handful of items that pack a punch. With a mix of spices, a touch of tomato sauce, and the star of the show, pork shoulder, you’re on your way to creating a dish that’s sure to be a hit.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and gather what we need!
Ingredients:
- 4 lbs pork shoulder
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons red chili powder (New Mexico variety is recommended)
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 Knorr chicken bouillon cube
- 1 pinch ground cloves (just a tiny pinch)
- 2 cups water
Now, let’s talk a little bit about these ingredients. First off, the pork shoulder is your best bet for this dish. It’s tender and flavorful, plus it practically begs to be cooked low and slow.
If you can’t find pork shoulder, other cuts like pork butt can work too, but they might vary a bit in tenderness.
And while the spices are straightforward, don’t be afraid to tweak them to your liking. Maybe you want a little more kick from the chili powder or a pinch of something extra special.
Cooking is all about making it yours, after all. So go ahead, feel free to channel your inner chef and adjust as you see fit!
How to Make Pork Asado
Let’s get right into it, shall we? To whip up this delicious Pork Asado, you’ll want to start with your 4 lbs of pork shoulder. First things first, chop that beautiful hunk of meat into 1/2 inch cubes, making sure to remove any excess fat. No one wants a greasy dish, right?
Now, heat a large pot over medium-high heat. This is where the magic begins. Toss those cubes of pork into the pot and let them fry in their own juices. You’re aiming for that lovely golden-brown color on all sides, which will take about 10 to 12 minutes. Just keep an eye on them, and maybe do a little happy dance as you watch them sizzle.
Once your pork is nicely browned, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer away for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is the part where you can kick back and enjoy the tantalizing aroma filling your kitchen.
After that time has passed, it’s time to thicken things up a bit. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of flour and give it a gentle stir. We’re just looking to cook that flour for about 2 minutes, so it doesn’t taste raw.
Next, add in your 1/2 cup of tomato sauce, along with the 2 tablespoons of red chili powder, 2 teaspoons of garlic salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and the Knorr chicken bouillon cube. Ah, the flavor explosion awaits!
Finally, pour in 2 cups of water and stir everything together. Keep cooking on medium heat until the sauce thickens to your liking. If it gets too thick, don’t panic—just add another 1/4 cup of water. You want that sauce to be a runny gravy consistency, perfect for drenching over rice or tortillas.
There you have it! A simple yet rewarding process to create your Pork Asado. Just remember, cooking is about enjoying the journey, so don’t stress too much about perfection.
If your pork isn’t exactly fork-tender right away, give it a little more time. After all, good things come to those who wait—or so they say.
And as you pour that savory sauce over your plate, take a moment to appreciate the deliciousness you’ve created. Your taste buds will thank you later.
Pork Asado Substitutions & Variations
Now that you’ve mastered the basics of making Pork Asado, it’s time to explore some fun substitutions and variations to customize the dish to your taste.
For a twist, try using chicken or beef instead of pork. If you want a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers.
Swap out tomato sauce for salsa for a fresh flavor. For a sweeter note, toss in some pineapple chunks.
You can also experiment with different spices; cumin or smoked paprika can add depth.
Don’t hesitate to adjust the garlic salt or chili powder to match your preferred heat level!
What to Serve with Pork Asado
Serving Pork Asado can elevate your meal into a delightful feast. I love pairing it with fluffy white rice, as it absorbs the savory sauce beautifully.
A side of black beans adds a nice contrast and boosts the meal’s heartiness. For a revitalizing touch, I often include a simple salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado, drizzled with lime juice.
If I’m feeling adventurous, I might whip up some fried plantains for a sweet element. Don’t forget warm tortillas—they’re perfect for scooping up that delicious pork!
These sides round out the flavors and make every bite unforgettable.
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing Pork Asado, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind to enhance your cooking experience.
First, try marinating the pork overnight for richer flavor. If you like a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or serranos during cooking.
I also recommend tasting the sauce as you go; adjusting spices can make a big difference. If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a while.
Finally, don’t forget to serve it with warm tortillas or rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy your cooking and the delightful meal that follows!