Savory Delight: Calabacita con Puerco – A Flavorful Pork and Squash Recipe

Calabacita con Puerco, a classic Mexican dish, is a comforting and flavorful combination of tender pork, sweet squash (calabacita), tomatoes, onions, and other delicious ingredients. This recipe is easy to make, versatile, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. This dish offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors, from the savory pork to the slightly sweet squash and the bright, tangy tomatoes. Whether you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons or simply want a new and delicious recipe to add to your repertoire, Calabacita con Puerco is an excellent choice.

## What is Calabacita?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about calabacita. Calabacita, which translates to “little squash” in Spanish, refers to a variety of summer squash commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It’s similar to zucchini or yellow squash but often has a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor. Calabacita is typically round or slightly elongated and has a light green skin. If you can’t find calabacita at your local grocery store, zucchini or yellow squash are excellent substitutes.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make Calabacita con Puerco. Feel free to adjust the quantities to your liking and preferences.

* **Pork:** 1.5 lbs pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes. Pork shoulder is more flavorful but takes longer to cook. Pork loin is leaner and cooks faster.
* **Calabacita (Squash):** 2 medium calabacitas, zucchini, or yellow squash, diced.
* **Onion:** 1 medium white onion, chopped.
* **Tomato:** 2-3 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped, or 1 (14.5 oz) can of diced tomatoes, undrained.
* **Garlic:** 3-4 cloves garlic, minced.
* **Jalapeño (Optional):** 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced, for a little heat.
* **Corn:** 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned).
* **Chicken Broth:** 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred).
* **Vegetable Oil:** 2 tablespoons vegetable oil.
* **Cilantro:** Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish.
* **Spices:**
* 1 teaspoon cumin powder
* 1 teaspoon oregano (Mexican oregano preferred)
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large skillet or Dutch oven
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Spatula or wooden spoon

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to create a delicious Calabacita con Puerco.

**Step 1: Prepare the Pork**

* Pat the pork cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better.
* Season the pork generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, cumin, and oregano. Make sure the pork is evenly coated with the spices.

**Step 2: Sear the Pork**

* Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the pork.
* Add the pork cubes to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and prevent the pork from browning properly. If necessary, cook the pork in batches.
* Sear the pork on all sides until it is nicely browned. This will take about 5-7 minutes per batch. Browning the pork adds a lot of flavor to the dish.
* Remove the browned pork from the skillet and set it aside.

**Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables**

* Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook over medium heat until it is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Add the minced garlic (and jalapeño, if using) to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

**Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth**

* Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes) to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.
* Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it and release any browned bits that have stuck to the pan. These browned bits are full of flavor.

**Step 5: Simmer the Pork**

* Return the browned pork to the skillet.
* Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for at least 1 hour, or until the pork is tender. If using pork shoulder, it may take longer to cook – up to 1.5 to 2 hours. Check the pork occasionally and add more chicken broth if the liquid is evaporating too quickly. The pork should be very tender and easily shreddable with a fork.

**Step 6: Add the Squash and Corn**

* Add the diced calabacita (or zucchini/yellow squash) and corn to the skillet.
* Stir to combine. Cover the skillet and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender-crisp. Be careful not to overcook the squash, as it can become mushy.

**Step 7: Season and Serve**

* Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. You may also want to add a pinch of cumin or oregano if you feel it needs it.
* Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
* Serve hot. Calabacita con Puerco is delicious on its own, or you can serve it with warm tortillas, rice, or beans.

## Tips and Variations

* **Spice it up:** Add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
* **Add other vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, potatoes, or green beans.
* **Use different protein:** You can substitute the pork with chicken or beef. For chicken, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. For beef, use stew meat or chuck roast.
* **Make it vegetarian:** Omit the pork and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini blossoms, for a vegetarian version.
* **Add cheese:** Sprinkle some shredded cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Oaxaca cheese, on top before serving.
* **Slow Cooker Version:** This recipe can easily be adapted for the slow cooker. Sear the pork as instructed, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients (except the squash and corn). Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender. Add the squash and corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
* **Instant Pot Version:** You can also make this recipe in an Instant Pot. Sear the pork using the sauté function, then add the other ingredients (except the squash and corn). Cook on high pressure for 25-30 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release. Add the squash and corn and cook for another 2 minutes on high pressure, followed by a quick pressure release.

## Serving Suggestions

Calabacita con Puerco is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways.

* **With tortillas:** Serve it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. Warm tortillas are a must!
* **With rice and beans:** A classic combination. Serve it with Mexican rice and refried beans.
* **As a stew:** Enjoy it as a hearty stew with a side of crusty bread.
* **Topped with avocado:** Add some sliced avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
* **With a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema:** Adds a cool and tangy element to the dish.

## Make Ahead and Storage

Calabacita con Puerco is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together and become even more delicious. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

**Storage:** Store leftover Calabacita con Puerco in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

**Freezing:** You can also freeze Calabacita con Puerco for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used.*

* Calories: 350-450 per serving
* Protein: 30-40 grams
* Fat: 20-30 grams
* Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams
* Fiber: 5-7 grams

## A Delicious and Nutritious Meal

Calabacita con Puerco is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The squash provides vitamins A and C, while the tomatoes are rich in antioxidants. The pork provides protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. This dish is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables and protein in a flavorful and satisfying way.

## Conclusion

Calabacita con Puerco is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its tender pork, sweet squash, and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious and authentic Mexican meal! This recipe is adaptable to your preferences and available ingredients, making it a truly versatile dish. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delicious results!

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use frozen squash?**
A: While fresh squash is preferred, you can use frozen squash in a pinch. Make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the recipe.

**Q: Can I make this dish spicier?**
A: Absolutely! Add more jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce to taste.

**Q: What kind of cheese goes well with Calabacita con Puerco?**
A: Monterey Jack, Oaxaca, or queso fresco are all good choices.

**Q: Can I use ground pork instead of pork cubes?**
A: Yes, you can use ground pork. Brown it in the skillet before adding the other ingredients.

**Q: How do I prevent the squash from becoming mushy?**
A: Don’t overcook the squash. Add it towards the end of the cooking process and cook until it is tender-crisp.

**Q: Can I add other spices?**
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with other spices like chili powder, smoked paprika, or cumin.

**Q: Is this dish gluten-free?**
A: Yes, Calabacita con Puerco is naturally gluten-free.

**Q: Can I use a different type of broth?**
A: You can use vegetable broth or beef broth instead of chicken broth, but the flavor will be slightly different.

**Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with Calabacita con Puerco?**
A: Mexican rice, refried beans, cornbread, or a simple salad are all great options.

**Q: Can I add a can of diced green chilies?**
A: Yes, diced green chilies will add a nice flavor and a touch of heat.

Enjoy your Calabacita con Puerco! We hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!