Southwestern Hash with Eggs - The Culinary Quirk: Journeys in Cooking

In this article, titled “Southwestern Hash with Eggs,” the author introduces a flavorful and versatile skillet dish that was a staple at office brunches before they retired. The dish features zesty pork, and with the option to add eggs, it can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dinner. The recipe includes a combination of ingredients such as potatoes, onions, green peppers, and spices that come together to create a delicious Southwestern flavor. Whether served on its own or wrapped in warm corn tortillas, this dish is sure to please any palate.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds pork steak, cubed
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1 large potato, peeled and cubed
1 medium onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
1 beef bouillon cube
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 large eggs
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 corn tortillas (6 inches), warmed

Directions

In a 10-in. ovenproof skillet, cook pork in oil until browned, about 4 minutes.
Add potato, onion, garlic, and green pepper; cook and stir for 4 minutes.
Stir in tomatoes, bouillon, cumin, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
Cover and cook over low heat for 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.
Make four wells in the hash; break an egg into each.
Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 10-12 minutes or until the eggs are completely set.
Sprinkle with cheese; cover and let stand for 5 minutes.
Serve over tortillas.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 each
Calories: 520
Fat: 23g (10g saturated fat)
Cholesterol: 335mg
Sodium: 1104mg
Carbohydrate: 29g (5g sugars, 4g fiber)
Protein: 49g

Introduction

Southwestern Hash with Eggs is a flavorful and satisfying breakfast dish that combines pork, potatoes, onions, green peppers, and tomatoes. This all-in-one skillet dish is easy to make and perfect for brunch or breakfast gatherings. The addition of eggs and melted cheese adds richness and makes it a complete meal.

Recipe

Cooking Time

The total cooking time for Southwestern Hash with Eggs is approximately 1 hour. This includes the preparation and cooking time.

Servings

The recipe makes 4 servings.

Main Ingredients

Pork steak: 1-1/2 pounds of cubed pork steak is the main protein in this dish. It adds flavor and texture to the hash.
Potato: 1 large potato, peeled and cubed, adds heartiness to the hash.
Onion: 1 medium-sized onion, chopped, provides a savory flavor to the dish.
Garlic: 1 clove of minced garlic adds a delicious aroma and flavor.
Green pepper: 1/2 cup of chopped green pepper adds a refreshing crunch.
Tomatoes and green chiles: 1 can (10 ounces) of diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained, adds a spicy kick to the hash.
Beef bouillon cube: 1 beef bouillon cube enhances the savory flavors of the dish.
Ground cumin: 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin adds a smoky and earthy flavor.
Salt and pepper: 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper are used to season the hash.
Cayenne pepper: 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper adds heat and spice to the dish.
Eggs: 4 large eggs are cooked in wells made in the hash, adding richness and protein.
Shredded cheddar cheese: 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese is sprinkled on top of the hash and melted, adding a creamy and cheesy finish.
Corn tortillas: 4 corn tortillas (6 inches), warmed, serve as a base for serving the hash.

Preparation

Start by cubing the pork steak and peeling and cubing the potato.
Chop the onion, mince the garlic clove, and chop the green pepper.
In a 10-inch ovenproof skillet, cook the pork in vegetable oil until browned.
Add the cubed potato, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped green pepper to the skillet and cook and stir for 4 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes and green chiles, beef bouillon cube, ground cumin, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Cover the skillet and cook over low heat for 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally.

Cooking

Make four wells in the hash mixture.
Break an egg into each well.
Bake the skillet, uncovered, at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until the eggs are completely set.
Sprinkle the hash with shredded cheddar cheese.
Cover the skillet and let it stand for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Serve the Southwestern Hash with Eggs over warmed corn tortillas.

Assembly

To assemble the dish, place a warmed corn tortilla on a plate, spoon the Southwestern Hash with Eggs on top, and serve.

Garnish

The Southwestern Hash with Eggs can be garnished with fresh cilantro leaves, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and presentation.

Tips

To make the dish spicier, add additional cayenne pepper or chopped jalapenos.
You can customize the recipe by adding toppings such as salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce.
If you prefer a milder flavor, use mild diced tomatoes and green chiles instead of the regular ones.
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a mixed green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Variations

For a vegetarian option, replace the pork steak with firm tofu or textured vegetable protein (TVP) and use vegetable broth instead of beef bouillon cube.
Add other vegetables such as corn, black beans, or diced zucchini to the hash for added flavor and texture.
For a healthier version, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of pork steak.
Substitute the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Instead of corn tortillas, serve the hash over cooked quinoa, rice, or a bed of greens.

Storage

Leftover Southwestern Hash with Eggs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through before serving.

Additional Serving Suggestions

Serve the hash with a side of pico de gallo or salsa fresca for added freshness and flavor.
Sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh cilantro on top for added freshness and color.
Serve with a side of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
A side of refried beans or black beans can complement the dish and add protein and fiber.

Health Benefits

Southwestern Hash with Eggs is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides several health benefits:

Protein: The pork steak and eggs in the dish are excellent sources of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting healthy hair and nails.
Vitamins and Minerals: The dish is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C from the green pepper and tomatoes, vitamin B12 from the eggs, and potassium from the potatoes.
Fiber: The dish contains fiber from the vegetables and corn tortillas, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
Antioxidants: The tomatoes and green chiles in the dish are high in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
Blood Sugar Control: The combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats from the eggs and pork can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent spikes and crashes.
Heart Health: The dish is relatively low in saturated fat and sodium, making it a heart-healthy choice.