Delicious Costillas de Puerco en Salsa Roja Recipe: A Flavorful Mexican Dish

If you’re looking to explore the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine, the Costillas de Puerco en Salsa Roja recipe is a must-try. This dish features tender pork……

If you’re looking to explore the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine, the Costillas de Puerco en Salsa Roja recipe is a must-try. This dish features tender pork ribs simmered in a vibrant red sauce, offering a delightful combination of spices and ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe and discover how to make it at home.

### Ingredients

To prepare Costillas de Puerco en Salsa Roja, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 pounds of pork ribs (costillas de puerco)

- 4 medium tomatoes

- 2 dried guajillo chiles

- 1 dried ancho chile

- 1 onion, chopped

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon of cumin

- 1 teaspoon of oregano

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

- Fresh cilantro for garnish

### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Chiles**: Start by removing the stems and seeds from the guajillo and ancho chiles. In a dry skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the chiles for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, soak the chiles in hot water for about 15 minutes until softened.

2. **Make the Salsa Roja**: In a blender, combine the softened chiles, tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little bit of the soaking water from the chiles to achieve your desired consistency.

3. **Cook the Ribs**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork ribs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Brown the ribs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.

4. **Combine and Simmer**: Once the ribs are browned, pour the salsa roja over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and add a little water if the sauce gets too thick.

5. **Serve**: Once the ribs are tender, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the Costillas de Puerco en Salsa Roja hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. This dish pairs wonderfully with warm tortillas, rice, or refried beans.

### Tips for the Best Costillas de Puerco en Salsa Roja

- **Marinating**: For an even deeper flavor, you can marinate the ribs in a portion of the salsa roja for a few hours or overnight before cooking.

- **Adjusting Heat**: If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add more chiles or include a jalapeño in the salsa.

- **Slow Cooking**: If you have time, consider using a slow cooker. After browning the ribs, transfer them to the slow cooker with the salsa and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

### Conclusion

The Costillas de Puerco en Salsa Roja recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a fantastic way to bring a taste of Mexico into your home. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or just a cozy dinner for two, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender meat that make this recipe a beloved classic in Mexican households. Happy cooking!