This dish features tender pork cooked to perfection and coated in a zesty fresh tomatillo salsa. The flavors are bright and simple, making it a big hit at any meal!
I can’t help but love how the tomatillo salsa adds a fresh kick. It’s like a party for your taste buds! Plus, it’s easy to whip up and makes dinner fun! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder or Pork Loin: Both are great choices for this dish. The shoulder has more fat which makes it tender and juicy. If you want a leaner option, pork loin works too! If you’re looking for a substitute, chicken or turkey can be used, but adjust cooking times as needed.
Tomatillos: These give our salsa that unique tangy flavor. If you can’t find tomatillos, you can use a mix of green tomatoes and lime juice for a similar taste, but it will lose some of that distinct tartness.
Jalapeño Pepper: This adds a nice kick. You can adjust the heat level by leaving out the seeds or using a milder pepper like a poblano. If you need it spicier, consider adding a serrano pepper instead.
Cilantro: It brightens up the salsa beautifully! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or green onions can serve as a fresh alternative.
How Do I Make Perfectly Cooked Pork?
Cooking pork can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it every time! Start by browning the pork to lock in flavors. Here’s how:
- Use medium-high heat for the skillet to get the sear you want.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this will make the pork steam instead of brown.
- Cook until it’s golden brown and then check that it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
After removing the pork, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and tender! Enjoy your meal with confidence!
How to Make Easy Pork in Fresh Tomatillo Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound fresh tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 1 small white onion, quartered
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 jalapeño pepper (seeded for less heat, optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup water (adjust for salsa consistency)
- Optional: sliced avocado and fresh cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the pork, while the fresh salsa comes together in under 10 minutes. It’s a quick and flavorful dish that you’ll enjoy making!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Pork:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats up, season the pork cubes generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the pork to the skillet in a single layer. Brown the pork on all sides until it’s golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. When done, remove the pork from the pan and set it aside on a plate to keep it warm.
2. Making the Fresh Salsa:
In the meantime, prepare the tomatillo salsa. In a blender or food processor, combine the husked tomatillos, quartered onion, garlic cloves, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, ground cumin, dried oregano, and water. Blend this mixture until smooth but still slightly chunky – you want some texture! Taste your salsa, and add salt if it needs a bit more flavor.
3. Combine and Simmer:
Return the seared pork to the skillet and pour the fresh tomatillo salsa over the top. Reduce the heat to medium-low, allowing the dish to simmer for about 5-10 minutes. This will let all those delicious flavors meld together and give the pork time to absorb the salsa’s vibrant taste.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Your easy pork in fresh tomatillo salsa is now ready! Serve it up hot, topped with extra cilantro and sliced avocado if you’d like. This dish pairs wonderfully with warm tortillas, fluffy rice, or black beans. Dig in and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Pork for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking. Thawing ensures even cooking and maintains the texture of the meat.
What Can I Substitute for Tomatillos?
If you can’t find tomatillos, you can substitute them with a combination of green tomatoes and a squeeze of lime juice for acidity. Though the flavor will differ slightly, it will still yield a tasty salsa!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like it hot, consider leaving the seeds in the jalapeño or adding a diced serrano pepper to the salsa. You can also serve it with hot salsa on the side or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top!
