How to Cook Pork for Tamales in a Crock Pot: A Comprehensive Guide

Tamales, a traditional Mexican dish, are a delightful combination of masa dough filled with savory or sweet ingredients and steamed in corn husks. Pork is a popular filling for tamales, and cooking it in a crock pot is a convenient and flavorful method. This guide will provide a step-by-step process for cooking pork for tamales in a crock pot, ensuring tender and flavorful results.

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs boneless pork roast
• 4 dried red chilies
• 1/2 sliced onion
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 jalapenos, seeded and cut in half
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the pork: Trim any excess fat from the pork roast and cut it into 3-inch chunks.

2. Season the pork: In a large bowl, combine the pork chunks with salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat evenly.

3. Add the aromatics: Add the sliced onion, crushed garlic cloves, and seeded and cut jalapenos to the bowl with the pork. Toss to combine.

4. Prepare the chilies: Remove the stems and seeds from the dried red chilies. Toast the chilies in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, until fragrant.

5. Add the chilies and liquid: Place the toasted chilies in a blender or food processor. Add enough water or broth to cover the chilies and blend until smooth.

6. Cook in the crock pot: Transfer the seasoned pork and the blended chili mixture to a crock pot. Add enough water or broth to cover the pork by about an inch.

7. Cook on low: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.

8. Shred the pork: Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the crock pot and shred it using two forks or a meat shredder.

9. Season to taste: Taste the shredded pork and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add additional salt, pepper, or chili powder to your preference.

Tips for Optimal Flavor

• Choose the right pork: For the best flavor, use a boneless pork shoulder or boston butt. These cuts have a good amount of fat, which will keep the pork moist and flavorful during cooking.

• Toast the chilies: Toasting the chilies before blending enhances their flavor and aroma.

• Use a variety of chilies: For a more complex flavor, use a combination of different types of dried red chilies, such as guajillo, ancho, and New Mexico.

• Don’t overcook the pork: Overcooked pork will become dry and tough. Cook it until it is tender and falls apart easily, but not for too long.

• Season to taste: Taste the shredded pork before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Shredded pork cooked in a crock pot is a versatile filling that can be used in a variety of dishes beyond tamales. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Tamales: Spread the shredded pork on a layer of masa dough and roll it up in corn husks. Steam the tamales until cooked through.

• Tacos: Fill tortillas with shredded pork, your favorite toppings, and salsa.

• Burritos: Combine shredded pork with rice, beans, and other fillings in a tortilla and wrap it up.

• Enchiladas: Spread shredded pork on tortillas, top with cheese and sauce, and bake until bubbly.

• Salads: Add shredded pork to salads for a protein boost and extra flavor.

Cooking pork for tamales in a crock pot is a simple and convenient method that yields tender and flavorful results. By following the steps outlined in this guide and incorporating the tips provided, you can create a delicious filling for tamales and other dishes. Whether you are a seasoned tamale maker or a novice cook, this guide will help you achieve optimal results.