From the home kitchens of the Valles Centrales comes Chileajo, a traditional Oaxacan stew whose name says it all: chile and ajo, chile and garlic. A smooth puree of guajillo and ancho chiles, garlic, cumin and cloves blankets tender pork in a deep red sauce that clings to every bite. It is homey, intensely savory, and a favorite for Oaxacan family meals.
Chileajo
From the home kitchens of the Valles Centrales comes Chileajo, a traditional Oaxacan stew whose name says it all: chile and ajo, chile and garlic.

Step by stepInstructions
- Simmer the pork in salted water until tender, about 1 hour, then strain and reserve 4 cups of the broth.
- Toast the chiles lightly on a comal until fragrant, then soak them in hot water for 20 minutes.
- Blend the drained chiles with the garlic, cumin, oregano, cloves, vinegar and a little broth into a smooth puree, then strain.
- Heat the lard in a cazuela and fry the puree, stirring constantly, until thick and fragrant, about 10 minutes.
- Add the pork and reserved broth, then simmer for 30 to 45 minutes until the flavors meld and the sauce is rich. Season with salt.
- Serve with white rice and warm tortillas.
💡 Chef tips & storage
The garlic is the backbone here — do not skimp. If you like a brighter, more rustic chileajo, leave the puree slightly textured instead of straining it.

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