Best Easy Chicharrón en Salsa Roja Recipe

Crunchy pork rinds braised in a smoky red chile and tomato salsa until tender. This traditional family dish offers bold flavor and works as a hearty filling for tacos and gorditas.

Cook 45 min Difficulty NORMAL 285 kcal
#mediterranean #diabetic friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • pork rinds (chicharrón) 4 cups
  • Roma tomatoes 4 pieces
  • white onion 0.5 pieces
  • garlic cloves 2 cloves
Seasonings/Sauce
  • dried guajillo chiles 3 pieces
  • dried ancho chile 1 pieces
  • vegetable oil 2 tbsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • freshly ground black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • water 1.5 cups
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 10 g 14%
Protein 17 g 24%
Fat 19 g 62%
Serving size 150g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast the dried guajillo and ancho chiles for about 30 seconds per side until fragrant, being careful not to burn them. Remove stems and seeds.

  2. 2

    In a saucepan, bring 1.5 cups water to a boil. Add toasted chiles and simmer for 10 minutes until softened. Drain chiles, reserving the soaking liquid.

  3. 3

    Roast tomatoes, onion, and garlic in the dry skillet over medium-high heat until blistered and lightly charred, 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally.

  4. 4

    Blend softened chiles, tomatoes, onion, garlic, ¾ cup chile soaking liquid, salt, and pepper until smooth.

  5. 5

    Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in salsa, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring to prevent sticking.

  6. 6

    Add pork rinds to the salsa and gently fold to coat. Cook uncovered for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicharrón softens but still retains some texture.

  7. 7

    Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot as a main dish or as a filling for tacos and gorditas.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The key ingredient is pork rinds (chicharrón), which provide the signature crunchy texture that softens as they're braised in the flavorful salsa roja. Their transformation is essential to the dish's classic identity.
Q. Which chili makes the biggest difference in flavor here?
The dried guajillo chiles are crucial for their smoky, slightly sweet heat, but the dried ancho chile adds depth and earthiness. Together, they create a well-balanced, bold salsa roja.
Q. How do I prevent the chicharrón from getting too soggy?
Monitor the timing in Step 6: after adding pork rinds to the salsa, simmer for just 5–7 minutes. Stir occasionally and cook uncovered so the chicharrón softens yet keeps some bite. Overcooking will make it mushy.
Q. How many calories are in each serving, and what is the protein-to-carb ratio?
Each serving contains 285 kcal, with 17g protein and 10g carbohydrates. The protein-to-carb ratio is roughly 1.7 to 1, and protein accounts for 24% of total calories.
Q. Is this recipe suitable for a diabetic-friendly diet?
Yes, each serving contains only 10g of carbohydrates and moderate fat, making it a suitable option for those watching their carb intake. Always portion accordingly and consult personal nutrition guidelines.
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