Espinazo En Salsa Verde Recipe

Espinazo en Salsa Verde: A Delicious Mexican Delight

If you’re looking to explore the delicious flavors of Mexican cuisine, then you should definitely try making Espinazo en Salsa Verde. This flavorful dish features pork spine cooked in a tangy green sauce made from tomatillos and green chilies. It’s a comforting food that many families enjoy as part of their traditional meals.

Espinazo en Salsa Verde has a rich history in Mexican culture, often served during family gatherings or special celebrations. Its unique blend of spices and ingredients makes it a beloved dish for many. The reason this recipe is particularly popular is that it combines hearty meat with a zesty sauce, creating a delightful meal that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds.

Ingredients

Feel free to substitute pork spine with pork shoulder for a different texture or use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and husking the tomatillos. Set everything aside.
2. Cook the Pork: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork spine and brown it on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours or until the meat is tender.
4. Make the Sauce: While the pork cooks, boil the tomatillos and jalapeños in a small pot for 10-15 minutes until soft. Drain and let cool.
5. Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the cooked tomatillos, jalapeños, onion, garlic, and cilantro. Blend until smooth.
6. Combine: Once the pork is tender, remove it from the pot and shred it. Add the blended sauce to the pot with the remaining broth. Stir well.
7. Mix and Simmer: Return the shredded pork to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes.
8. Serve: Enjoy your Espinazo en Salsa Verde warm! It’s great with rice or tortillas.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lime juice to the sauce just before serving.
• You can customize the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
• Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Don’t rush the cooking process; letting the meat simmer helps to develop the flavor!

FAQs

What is Espinazo?

Espinazo is a cut of pork that comes from the spine, known for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked properly.

Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can substitute pork shoulder or even chicken if preferred. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with Espinazo en Salsa Verde?

This dish goes well with rice, tortillas, or even some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes! Freezing Espinazo en Salsa Verde is a great option. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Is this dish spicy?

The level of spice depends on the number of jalapeños you use. For a milder dish, remove the seeds or reduce the quantity.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making it ahead allows the flavors to deepen. Just reheat before serving.

What if I don’t have tomatillos?

If tomatillos are unavailable, you can use a blend of green tomatoes and a bit of lime juice for a similar flavor.

What other herbs can I add?

You can experiment with adding herbs like oregano or even a bit of bay leaf for extra flavor.

How do I know when the pork is done?

The pork should be tender and easy to shred with a fork, indicating it’s cooked properly.

Now you’re ready to enjoy cooking and savoring Espinazo en Salsa Verde. Gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and delight your family with this amazing Mexican dish! Enjoy!