Harvesting season runs from August through September. I got a mild variety - they are New Mexico 6-4 types to be more specific - and they are DELICIOUS. They were delivered already roasted, frozen. All I had to do was thaw them out and I’m ready to get cooking! There is something about a good bowl of chili that always satisfies, and I love that there are so many ways to make it. Beans or no beans, different meat options, and don’t even get me started on the seasonings. This is where the playground opens up the most for me because I’m a spice fanatic, and there are SO MANY spices that I love, some of which I have included in this recipe. The reality is that “Hatch Chili Peppers” actually belong to the broader category of New Mexican peppers, and there are many types. You can learn more about Hatch Chili Peppers here, including types and history. Hatch peppers typically range in heat levels from 1,000 - 8,000 Scoville Heat Units, which is quite mild to about jalapeno pepper level heat. Let’s talk about how to make pork chili, shall we? So incredible on flavor. Comfort food extraordinaire. Remaining Ingredients. Add the remaining ingredients, including your chopped Hatch peppers and all those seasonings, and give it all a good stir. Garnish and Serve. I garnish mine with crumbly white queso fresco or homemade queso blanco, as well as fresh chopped cilantro and spicy chili flakes. Try with lime wedges, sour cream, red onions. Don’t forget the hot sauce! Boom! Done! Good stuff, isn’t it? I love a good pork chili. The pork shoulder is so incredibly tender after the low and slow cooking. You can also simmer it in your crock pot or Instant pot.
That’s it, my friends! I hope you enjoy your chili! Grab yourself a bowl! Or, either order or grow a hotter variety of New Mexican peppers, such as the Sandia pepper, which is about as hot as a jalapeno pepper.
Can You Make This Recipe with Other Peppers?
Absolutely. If you do not have access to Hatch or New Mexico peppers, you can make this with any larger, thicker walled pepper, such as the Anaheim, large Italian sweets (think Corno di Toro), and yes, even sweet bell peppers or other green chilies. Try poblano peppers for this recipe as well. They’re great. Try it with black beans, too. Looking for a touch of sweet depth? Stir in a couple tablespoons of brown sugar and let it simmer through.
Where Can You Buy Hatch Chile Peppers?
I have a list of online resources where you can buy Hatch Chile Peppers. You can also freeze chili in freezer containers for 3 months or longer. I freeze batches of chili all the time. If you enjoy this recipe, I hope you’ll leave a comment with some STARS. Also, please share it on social media. Don’t forget to tag us at #ChiliPepperMadness. I’ll be sure to share! Thanks! – Mike H. NOTE: This recipe was updated on 3/18/22 to include new information and video. It was originally published on 9/12/18.
