Dive into a culinary adventure with this hearty and flavorful Pork Ribs Stew featuring the unique textures of nopales (cactus pads) and zucchini. This recipe transcends the ordinary, offering a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. The succulent pork ribs, slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, are perfectly complemented by the slightly tangy nopales and the mild sweetness of the zucchini. The rich broth, infused with aromatic spices, creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This isn't your grandma's stew; it's a vibrant and exciting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
This recipe balances the richness of the pork with the refreshing crunch of the nopales and zucchini, creating a delightful textural contrast. Get ready to experience a culinary masterpiece that’s surprisingly easy to make. For a complete, step-by-step guide to creating this exceptional Pork Ribs Stew with Nopales and Zucchini, continue reading below.
Tools Needed
- saucepan
- comal (griddle)
- blender
- strainer
Ingredients
- Pork ribs: 1 kg
- Nopales (cactus pads): 5 stalks
- Cilantro: 1 bunch
- Onion: 1 small piece
- Tomatoes: 5 large
- Serrano chiles: 2
- Chile puya: 5
- Chile negro (black chiles): 3
- Garlic: 3 cloves
- Oregano: 1/4 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon
- Zucchini: 1
- Water: 3 cups + 1 cup
- Salt: to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the pork ribs into small pieces.
- Cut the nopales into small pieces.
- Roast the black chiles and chile puya on a comal.
- Boil the tomatoes and serrano chiles.
Step 2. Cook the Pork and Sauce
- Cook the pork ribs in a saucepan with 3 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt until the water is completely consumed.
- Boil the nopales with cilantro, onion, and salt until cooked.
- Add the roasted chiles to the boiling tomatoes and serrano chiles; boil for 5 minutes, then let it rest.
- Blend the cooked chiles and tomatoes with garlic, oregano, cumin, pepper, and onion.
- Strain the sauce.
- Add 1 cup of water, salt, and the strained sauce to a pot. Simmer for a while.
Step 3. Combine and Simmer
- Add the cooked nopales and zucchini to the sauce. Cover and cook for 15 minutes.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve the stew.
Read more: Authentic Charro Beans Recipe: South Texas Style
Tips
- The sauce needs a little less than half a teaspoon of salt.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the nopales? I can't find them in my local grocery store.
Yes! You can substitute with other vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or even potatoes. They won't provide the same slight tang, but will still add texture and flavor to the stew.
2. How long can I store the leftover stew?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen even more after a day or two!
This Pork Ribs Stew with Nopales and Zucchini is a testament to the magic of unexpected flavor combinations. Enjoy the satisfying warmth and unique taste this recipe offers, and don't be afraid to experiment with your own spice blends. From start to finish, this dish is a rewarding culinary experience you'll want to revisit again and again.