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There’s something magical about the way a kitchen fills with the rich, aromatic scents of a simmering Chile Verde Recipe. It’s the kind of magic that makes you stop and savor the moment. I remember the first time I attempted this dish; the vibrant green tomatillos and fiery jalapeños seemed to dance in the pan, transforming into a sauce that was both bold and comforting.
As the sauce simmered, the tender beef shoulder soaked up all those incredible flavors. I couldn’t help but peek under the lid every now and then, eager to see how it was coming along. Cooking this dish felt like a small adventure in my own kitchen, one that ended with a delicious reward.
This Chile Verde Recipe quickly became a favorite in my household, bringing warmth and a touch of spice to even the coldest evenings. It’s a recipe that encourages creativity and invites you to make it your own. The combination of ingredients and the slow-cooked process create a dish that’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience.
Cooking shouldn’t be complicated or intimidating, and this Chile Verde Recipe embodies that philosophy perfectly. It’s a dish that brings people together, turning a simple dinner into a moment worth savoring. With every spoonful, you taste not just the ingredients, but the love and effort that went into creating it.
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Chile Verde Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 270 minutes
- Yield: 8
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Discover how to make a delicious Chile Verde recipe that is full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. Learn the secrets to this traditional Mexican dish now!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds tomatillos (680 g)
- 5 garlic cloves, not peeled
- 2 jalapeños, seeds and ribs removed, chopped
- 2 Anaheim or Poblano chilIes (optional)
- 1 bunch cilantro leaves, cleaned and chopped
- 3 1/2 to 4 pounds beef shoulder, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1 to 2-inch cubes (1.6 to 1.8 kg)
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Vegetable oil
- 2 yellow onions, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of chopped fresh oregano or 1 Tbsp (15 ml) of dried oregano
- 2 1/2 cups (600 ml) beef broth
- Pinch of ground cloves
- Flour or corn tortillas
- Spanish rice
Instructions
- Prepare the tomatillos by taking off their husks and giving them a good rinse.
- For roasting, cut the tomatillos in half and lay them cut side down on a baking sheet lined with foil, alongside 5 unpeeled garlic cloves. Broil for around 5-7 minutes until the skins are slightly charred. After removing from the oven, allow them to cool until manageable. If you wish to include additional chiles like Anaheim or poblano, roast them similarly until they are completely blackened. Cool them in a bag, then peel, deseed, and destem.
- Blend the tomatillos, keeping the skins intact. Take the roasted garlic, peel them, and add to the blender. Include the chopped jalapeños, any other chiles you chose, and cilantro. Blend until everything is finely combined.
- Generously season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat and brown the beef on all sides. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even browning. Once done, remove the beef with a slotted spoon or tongs and set aside in a bowl.
- Drain excess oil from the pan, leaving about a tablespoon. Add chopped onions and garlic to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, about 5 minutes.
- Return the beef to the pan if it is large enough to accommodate everything. Otherwise, move the onion mixture and beef to a large pot. Stir in the oregano. Mix in the tomatillo sauce with the beef and onions. Pour in beef broth until the meat is just covered. Add a pinch of ground cloves, then season with a bit of salt and pepper, keeping in mind that flavors will intensify as it cooks.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender enough to be broken apart with a fork. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve alongside Spanish rice and warm flour or freshly made corn tortillas. If you enjoyed this dish, please share your feedback with a rating and review!
Notes
- Consider adding additional jalapeños or other hot peppers to the tomatillo sauce for a spicier flavor.
- Enhance the beef’s taste by marinating it in the tomatillo sauce before cooking.
- To thicken the sauce, mix a small amount of flour or cornstarch with water and add it to the stew towards the end of cooking.
Mastering the Chile Verde Recipe
Fundamentals
Understanding the fundamentals of the Chile Verde Recipe is essential for creating a dish that’s full of flavor and character. At its core, this recipe is about the blending of fresh ingredients like tomatillos, jalapeños, and cilantro. These elements come together to form a vibrant sauce that envelops tender pieces of beef shoulder.
Choosing quality ingredients is crucial. Opt for fresh tomatillos and jalapeños to ensure the sauce has the right balance of tangy and spicy flavors. Don’t skip the cilantro—it adds a burst of freshness that elevates the entire dish.
Preparation and Setup
Before you start cooking, make sure to prepare your ingredients. Remove the husks from the tomatillos and give them a thorough rinse. Roasting these along with garlic brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, include Anaheim or Poblano chiles for an extra kick.
As the tomatillos roast, season your beef shoulder generously with salt and pepper. Browning the beef in a hot pan is a key step, as it seals in the juices and enhances the meat’s flavor. Once the beef is browned, you’re ready to move on to the next stage of crafting this delightful Chile Verde Recipe.
Crafting the Perfect Chile Verde
Technique
Mastering the technique of making a Chile Verde Recipe involves attention to detail and a bit of patience. Start by blending the roasted tomatillos and garlic with jalapeños and cilantro until smooth. This vibrant green sauce is the heart of the dish, offering a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef.
Once your sauce is ready, combine it with the browned beef and sautéed onions. Add beef broth to ensure the meat is just covered, and sprinkle in a pinch of ground cloves for a subtle warm note. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, letting the flavors meld together over time.

Chile Verde Recipe
Tips and Tricks
Achieving the perfect balance in your Chile Verde Recipe can be as simple as adjusting the seasoning to your taste. Don’t hesitate to add more salt or pepper if needed as the dish cooks. Remember, flavors will intensify, so taste frequently and adjust accordingly.
If you find the sauce too thick, add a splash of beef broth. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce. These small adjustments can make a significant difference in the final dish.
Perfecting Your Chile Verde
Perfecting the Results
The secret to perfecting your Chile Verde Recipe lies in patience. Allow the beef to simmer until it’s tender enough to fall apart with a fork. This slow-cooking process breaks down the meat’s fibers, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Keep an eye on the sauce’s consistency and adjust as necessary. A well-balanced sauce should cling to the beef without being too watery. Achieving this perfect texture takes time, but the result is a dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.
Troubleshooting and Variations
If your Chile Verde Recipe doesn’t turn out as expected, don’t worry. Troubleshooting is part of the cooking process. If the sauce is too spicy, add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice to mellow the heat.
For variations, consider adding roasted potatoes or carrots to the mix, creating a heartier meal. You can also experiment with different types of chiles to find the flavor profile that best suits your palate.
Serving and Enjoying Chile Verde
Serving and Presentation
Presentation is key when serving your Chile Verde Recipe. Arrange the tender beef and vibrant sauce over a bed of Spanish rice for a colorful and appealing plate. Warm flour or corn tortillas on the side offer a delightful way to scoop up every last bit of sauce.
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a few slices of avocado for an extra touch of freshness. These finishing touches not only enhance the dish’s appearance but also add layers of flavor that complement the main ingredients.
Pairings and Storage
Pair your Chile Verde Recipe with sides that enhance its flavors. Consider serving with Hatch Chile Cheese Cornbread for a delightful contrast in texture. The cornbread’s sweetness pairs nicely with the savory beef and tangy tomatillo sauce.

Chile Verde Recipe
For storage, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to preserve the meat’s tenderness and the sauce’s vibrant flavors.
Conclusion
The journey of creating a Chile Verde Recipe is as rewarding as the dish itself. With its bold flavors and tender beef, this recipe becomes a staple in any meal rotation. Mastering the fundamentals and embracing the process ensures each cooking experience is both enjoyable and satisfying.
This dish’s versatility allows you to tailor it to your taste, making it a unique addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed on a cozy family dinner night or shared with friends, Chile Verde offers a taste of comfort and creativity.
Incorporate this recipe into your cooking routine and let its rich flavors bring warmth to your table. With each bite, savor the effort and love that goes into crafting such a memorable meal.
