Delicious and Hearty Porch Pot Recipe: A Comfort Food for All Seasons

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds of boneless pork shoulder
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 bell peppers, diced
  • 1 can of diced tomatoes (15 oz)
  • 2 cups of chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon of chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz)
  • 1 cup of corn kernels, frozen or fresh
  • 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced

Steps and instructions

  1. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the pork shoulder to the pot and sear on all sides until browned.
  4. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
  5. In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers. Cook until soft.
  6. Return the pork to the pot and add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and oregano.
  7. Cover the pot and simmer for about 2 hours, or until the pork is tender.
  8. Remove the pork from the pot and shred it with two forks.
  9. Return the shredded pork to the pot and add the black beans and corn kernels.
  10. Continue to cook for another 15 minutes, until everything is heated through.
  11. Stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice just before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian Variation: Replace the pork shoulder with diced tofu or seitan for a meat-free version.
  • Beef Variation: Substitute the pork shoulder with beef chuck roast for a different flavor profile.
  • Spicy Variation: Add diced jalapenos or a dash of cayenne pepper for some extra heat.
  • Smoky Variation: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder to give the dish a smoky flavor.
  • Vegetable Variation: Increase the amount of bell peppers and add additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
  • Slow Cooker Variation: Cook the pork shoulder and ingredients in a slow cooker on low heat for 6-8 hours.
  • Gluten-Free Variation: Use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
  • Tex-Mex Variation: Add a can of diced green chilies and serve the porch pot with tortillas or rice.
  • Garnish Variation: Top the porch pot with sliced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions.
  • Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, basil, or parsley to add a unique twist.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our delicious Porch Pot recipe! This hearty and flavorful dish features tender, shredded pork, simmered with onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Infused with a blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano, this recipe offers a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for any day of the week. Expect a wonderful interplay of textures and flavors in this dish - from the succulent pork to the sweet bell peppers and corn, the creamy black beans, and the tangy lime and fresh cilantro finish. In just a few steps, you'll have a pot full of goodness that's sure to impress your family and friends. Dig in and enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork shoulder? Yes, you can use beef chuck roast or chicken thighs as alternatives. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes? Absolutely! You can use fresh tomatoes, just make sure to dice them and use approximately the same amount as specified in the recipe.
  3. What can I use as a substitute for bell peppers? If you don't have bell peppers, you can use poblano peppers, Anaheim peppers, or even jalapenos for some extra heat.
  4. Can I freeze porch pot? Yes, porch pot freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  5. Can I make porch pot in a slow cooker? Absolutely! After searing the pork, transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is tender.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - Use a cutting board to prepare and chop the ingredients.
  • Chef's knife - A sharp chef's knife is essential for cutting the pork shoulder and vegetables.
  • Large pot - You'll need a large pot to cook the porch pot on the stovetop.
  • Wooden spoon - A wooden spoon is useful for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pot.
  • Forks - Two forks will be needed to shred the cooked pork shoulder.
  • Can opener - Use a can opener to open the cans of diced tomatoes and black beans.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are helpful for accurately measuring spices and seasonings.
  • Lime juicer - A lime juicer can make it easier to extract juice from the lime.
  • Serving bowls - Serve the porch pot in bowls for individual portions.
  • Garnish options - Optional garnishes like chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and avocado slices can enhance the presentation and flavor.

Origin stories

Porch pot, although known by different names, is a dish that can be traced back to various cultures, each with its own spin on the flavorful stew. In the heartland of America, for instance, recipes similar to Porch pot were often concocted by resourceful homemakers using whatever ingredients they had on hand. It was a way to make the most out of modest ingredients, transforming them into a meal that was both hearty and comforting. The beauty of Porch pot lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It's a testament to the ingenuity of home cooks everywhere, who could create something deeply satisfying out of the ordinary. Keep this in mind the next time you cook up a pot; you're not just making dinner, but honoring a time-honored tradition of culinary creativity.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.