Hearty Mexican Dinner Puerco Adobado with Rice

If you're searching for a flavorful and satisfying dish to serve at your next dinner, look no further than Puerco Adobado with Rice. This hearty Mexican dinner brings together tender pork marinated in a rich adobo sauce, accompanied by fluffy rice, making it a perfect centerpiece for your meal.

What is Puerco Adobado?
Puerco Adobado translates to "pork in adobo," a traditional Mexican preparation that infuses pork with a savory and spicy marinade made from dried chiles, spices, and vinegar. The adobo not only enhances the pork’s natural flavors but also creates a delightful depth that complements the meat’s tenderness.

Ingredients for Puerco Adobado
To prepare this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 pounds of pork shoulder, cut into chunks
  • 4 dried guajillo chiles
  • 2 dried ancho chiles
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of oregano
  • 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Ingredients for Rice
For the perfect accompaniment, prepare some fluffy white rice using the following:

  • 1 cup of white rice
  • 2 cups of water or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • Salt, to taste

Cooking Method

Follow these steps to create your Puerco Adobado:

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a skillet, toast the guajillo and ancho chiles over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until aromatic. Soak the toasted chiles in hot water for about 15 minutes until softened.
  2. Blend the Marinade: In a blender, combine the softened chiles, garlic, cumin, oregano, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
  3. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork chunks in a large bowl and pour the adobo marinade over them. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated. Allow the pork to marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight in the fridge for enhanced flavor.
  4. Cook the Pork: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork and sear until browned on all sides. Pour in any remaining marinade, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.

For the Rice:

  1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and toast it lightly, stirring frequently, for about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Pour in the water or chicken broth, add salt, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until rice is fully cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Serving Suggestions
Once your Puerco Adobado is tender and aromatic, and your rice is fluffy, it’s time to serve! Plate the pork alongside a generous scoop of rice. For an extra burst of flavor, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or sliced avocados. You can also serve with warm tortillas for a complete Mexican feast.

Conclusion
Puerco Adobado with Rice is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings vibrant Mexican flavors to your table. Whether it's for a family gathering or a special occasion, this hearty dinner will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds!