Pepián de Chancho
A rich and flavorful pork stew, Pepián de Chancho is a variation of the classic Pepián, featuring a complex sauce made from roasted tomatoes, chilies, and a blend of toasted seeds and spices. This version uses pork shoulder for a tender and satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Pork shoulder(cut into 2-inch cubes)
- 4 medium Tomatoes(halved)
- 4 medium Tomatillos(husks removed, halved)
- 1 medium Onion(quartered)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves
- 3 dried Guajillo chilies(seeds and stems removed)
- 2 dried Ancho chilies(seeds and stems removed)
- 1/4 cup Pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 2 tbsp Sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp Coriander seeds
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds
- 1 inch Cinnamon stick
- 2 whole Cloves
- 1 tsp Black peppercorns
- 4 cups Chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Roast tomatoes, tomatillos, onion, and garlic on a comal or baking sheet until charred and softened. Set aside.
- 2
Toast dried chilies in a dry skillet until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes per side. Soak in hot water for 15 minutes.
- 3
In the same dry skillet, toast pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, and peppercorns until fragrant. Be careful not to burn.
💡 Tip: Toast seeds and spices in batches if necessary to ensure even toasting. - 4
Combine roasted vegetables, soaked chilies (drained), toasted seeds and spices, and about 1 cup of chicken broth in a blender. Blend until very smooth. This is your Pepián sauce base.
- 5
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork cubes on all sides until browned. Remove pork and set aside.
- 6
Pour the blended Pepián sauce into the hot pot. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce darkens and thickens.
💡 Tip: Stirring is crucial to prevent burning and develop flavor. - 7
Return the seared pork to the pot. Add the remaining chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Add more broth if a thinner consistency is desired. - 8
Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is very tender.
💡 Tip: Check periodically and stir to prevent sticking. Add more broth if needed. - 9
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoother sauce, strain the blended mixture before adding it to the pot.
- ✓The longer the stew simmers, the more the flavors will meld and the pork will become tender.
- ✓Serve hot with white rice and corn tortillas.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of sugar to the sauce to balance the flavors.
- For a spicier version, add a dried chile de arbol or a fresh jalapeño to the roasting vegetables.