Crock Pot Green Chili Stew with Pork

There's something about January that often gets me reaching for the slow cooker.

Maybe it's a balance thing.

After a month of December baking and cooking - not to mention a busy wrap up to my own work year - the advent of January awakens a desire to slow things down, take it easy, and get back into self care.

It's a pretty amazing thing, blogging - over the last few days I've taken the time to read many of my past entries and have come to the conclusion that everything I've written and every lesson learned has brought me to a new awareness of happiness.

But where does today's recipe come in?

The thing is, I'm in a good place at present of feeling exactly right in my own skin.

No resolutions, no big plans - just going with the flow, trusting my inner knowing, and accepting the journey.

And one of the most important things I've learned is that the essence of a life well lived isn't about the big moments or the obvious triumphs.

Life's richest tapestry is often about the threads that remain unseen.

Gossamer strands of kindness and compassion, selflessness and courage weave their webs among the promotions and accolades going mostly unnoticed.

And yet, who is to know what your smile meant to a stranger in the parkade as you gave up that parking stall.

Who is to understand what it meant to the eight year old standing alone in the playground when your daughter walked over and held out a hand.

That's where the chili comes in.

The breaking of bread, or a simple meal on a weeknight creates meaningful connections; and it is through meaningful connection that compassion is born.

For it is human beings who have been loved and valued who hold the keys of hope to our future.

***

I've been doing a little meal planning and am wanting to spend the month of January trying out new recipes that are comforting, easy, and tasty without being over the top in the fat and calorie department.

Green Chili Stew fit the bill.

Filled with fibre, antioxidants, and very little fat, this simple weeknight meal is sure to please any family after a long day in January.

I hope you enjoy...

Green Chili Stew
For printable recipe click HERE

Ingredients

• 2 lb boneless pork loin chops cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 1 jalapeno chili, seeded, chopped
• 1 small can chopped green chiles
• 1 small can diced tomatoes
• 1 can pinto beans or chick peas, rinsed
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/3 cup salsa verde
• 1/2 cup chicken stock

Garnishes

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• cooked white rice

Directions

1. Spray slow cooker with cooking spray.
2. Place all ingredients except garnish into the slow cooker, stir well
3. Cover, cook on low heat setting 8-9 hours
4. Ladle stew into bowls. Garnish with sour cream, green onions, rice, and cheese

This blog is linked to: