Durango Diner Green Chili Recipe

Are you ready to cook a flavorful, hearty green chili that’s packed with bold flavors? This Durango Diner Green Chili recipe is your perfect go-to for a cozy meal. The combination of green chilies, spices, and tender pork (or chicken) will leave your taste buds craving more!

Green chili is a beloved dish with a deep, rich flavor that’s loved by many for its spicy yet comforting taste, just like the Frisch’s Chili. This recipe uses a perfect blend of roasted jalapenos, cilantro, tomatoes, and a variety of spices to bring you a mouthwatering bowl of chili. Whether you prefer it mild or hot, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any heat preference.

Keep reading to learn how to make the best Durango Diner Green Chili, along with all the tips and tricks for a perfect bowl every time.

What Does Durango Diner Green Chili Taste Like?

This recipe is loaded with layers of flavor. The blend of green chilies and roasted jalapenos brings a smoky and spicy base, while cumin and oregano add depth.

The pork (or chicken) is browned to perfection, making it rich and savory. Plus, the homemade chicken stock adds a fresh, wholesome touch that makes this green chili stand out.

The optional add-ins like habaneros, cilantro, and tomatoes enhance the overall flavor, making every spoonful satisfying. Serve it up with some tortilla chips, rice, or just enjoy it on its own – it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients Required for Durango Diner Green Chili Recipe

Here’s the list of Ingredients you’ll need to make this Durango Diner Green Chili Recipe

• 1 pound diced pork or chicken
• 16 ounces diced green chilies (1/2 blended, 1/2 chopped)
• 8 cups chicken stock
• 2 roasted jalapenos (optional)
• 1 carrot (optional)
• 1 ½ cloves garlic
• 1 ½ diced onions
• 1 habanero pepper (optional)
• 1 ½ tbsp. oregano
• 1 ½ tbsp. cumin
• ½ bunch cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (or more, depending on preference)
• Salt to taste

For the Roux (Thickener):

• ½ cup canola or vegetable oil (butter, lard, or bacon grease can be used)
• ½ cup flour

Kitchen Utensil You’ll Need

1. Blender
2. Large pot or Dutch oven
3. Stirring spoon
4. Knife
5. Chopping board
6. Small saucepan (for roux)
7. Ladle or serving spoon

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

How to Make Durango Diner Green Chili

Simply follow the steps given below to make your Durango Diner Green Chili at home

1. Brown the Pork/Chicken: Heat a large pot and brown the diced pork or chicken. Stir occasionally to ensure it browns evenly. This step can be optional, but it adds depth to the flavor.

2. Prepare the Roux: While the meat is browning, prepare the roux by combining the oil and flour in a small saucepan. Stir constantly until it reaches a smooth, golden consistency. Set aside.

3. Blend the Vegetables: In a blender, combine half of the diced green chilies, roasted jalapenos, carrot (if using), habanero, garlic, and onions. Blend until smooth.

4. Add the Blended Vegetables: Once the pork is browned, add the blended vegetable mixture to the pot. Stir well to combine.

5. Add the Chicken Stock and Spices: Pour in the chicken stock, and season with cumin, oregano, and salt. Bring to a boil and then lower the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 1 hour to blend the flavors.

6. Add Tomatoes and Adjust Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt as needed. Let the chili continue to cook for 30 more minutes.

7. Finish with Cilantro and Roux: Add cilantro to the pot and stir. Gradually stir in the roux until the chili thickens to your desired consistency. Let it cook for another 15-20 minutes.

Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded together, it’s ready to be served! Enjoy it with your favorite sides.

Some Tasty Ways To Customize and Serve This Durango Diner Green Chili

1. Topped with Sour Cream and Shredded Cheese: Add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese to balance the heat.

2. Serve with Warm Tortillas: Use soft flour or corn tortillas to scoop up the chili for a hearty, satisfying bite.

3. Over Rice: Pour the green chili over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a complete meal.

4. As a Chili Topping for Nachos: Drizzle the green chili over a plate of nachos topped with melted cheese, jalapenos, and sour cream.

5. Inside Burritos: Fill tortillas with the green chili and some rice or beans, then wrap them up for a flavorful burrito.

6. With Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Serve the green chili as a dipping sauce for a comforting grilled cheese sandwich.

7. On a Baked Potato: Spoon the chili over a baked potato for a warm and filling dish.

8. As a Chili Dog Topping: Ladle the green chili over hot dogs for a spicy twist on the classic chili dog.

9. Pair with Cornbread: Serve with a side of sweet or savory cornbread to soak up all that delicious chili.

10. Top Scrambled Eggs: Add a spicy, flavorful kick to your breakfast by topping scrambled eggs with a generous scoop of green chili.

Some Tips on This Durango Diner Green Chili Recipe

1. Adjust Heat Levels: For a milder chili, skip the habanero and reduce the jalapenos. For more heat, add extra habaneros or jalapenos to suit your taste.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and cilantro will give the chili a vibrant, fresh flavor that dried ingredients can’t match.

3. Roast Your Chilies: If you want an extra smoky flavor, roast the green chilies and jalapenos before blending them.

4. Brown the Meat: Browning the pork (or chicken) well before adding the vegetables enhances the chili’s flavor with deep, savory notes.

5. Freeze Extra Green Chili: Make a big batch and freeze individual portions for an easy meal later on.

6. Perfect Thickness: Adjust the roux to get your preferred chili consistency—thicker for a stew-like texture or thinner for a soupier consistency.

7. Add Extra Vegetables: You can experiment with adding other vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, to make the chili heartier and more colorful.

8. Use Homemade Stock: Homemade chicken stock adds a rich, savory depth to the chili. If using store-bought, opt for a low-sodium version.

9. Cilantro at the End: Add cilantro at the very end of cooking to preserve its fresh flavor and vibrant color.

10. Garnish Generously: Top your chili with sour cream, shredded cheese, or even some diced avocado for a creamy finish. A squeeze of lime adds a nice, fresh zing!

How to Store and Reheat Durango Diner Green Chili  Properly?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.

Common Queries on This Durango Diner Green Chili Recipe

Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the Durango Diner Green Chili Recipe that people often ask.

1. How to make green chili milder?

To make green chili milder, reduce or omit the habanero peppers and use fewer jalapenos. You can also remove the seeds from the peppers before adding them to the chili, as the seeds contain much of the heat.

2. Why is green chili so good?

Green chili is so good because it combines the smoky flavor of roasted chilies with savory meat, aromatic spices, and fresh ingredients like tomatoes and cilantro. The layers of flavor and its versatility make it a comforting dish loved by many.

3. Is green chili a Colorado thing?

Yes, green chili is a popular dish in Colorado, especially in Denver, where it’s often served over burritos, fries, or as a standalone meal. It’s a staple in Colorado’s Southwestern cuisine, blending local ingredients with unique flavors.

4. How to thicken green chili with flour?

To thicken green chili with flour, make a roux by cooking equal parts flour and oil (or fat) together until golden. Gradually stir the roux into the chili as it simmers, allowing it to thicken without lumps. Add small amounts until the desired consistency is reached.

5. Can I use chicken broth instead of chicken stock in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for chicken stock in this recipe. Stock has a richer, more gelatinous texture, but broth will still work well and provide good flavor.

6. Can I use ground pork or chicken instead of diced meat?

Absolutely! Ground pork or chicken will work just fine in this recipe. The texture will be different, but it will still provide the same delicious flavor when combined with the other ingredients.

7. What can I serve with green chili?

Green chili pairs perfectly with rice, tortillas, tortilla chips, or cornbread. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or on top of baked potatoes for a hearty meal.

8. Can I make green chili vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of green chili by replacing the meat with beans, such as pinto or black beans, and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

9. Can I freeze green chili?

Yes, green chili freezes well! Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat.

10. How can I adjust the thickness of my green chili?

If your green chili is too thin, you can thicken it with a roux (flour and fat mixture) or by simmering it longer to reduce the liquid. If it’s too thick, add a little extra chicken stock or water to reach the desired consistency.

This Durango Diner Green Chili recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a rich, flavorful, and slightly spicy dish. The combination of tender meat, smoky chilies, and aromatic spices will transport you straight to a cozy diner.

Make a big batch and enjoy it with your loved ones – it’s sure to be a hit at any table!

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