Southwestern Shepherd's Pie Crock Pot

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Spicy food lover's shepherd's pie!!! (although the sweet potato topping cools it somewhat) this is good!!! nummmmmmy!!! (dried pepper soaking time not included in prep time.) from the local newspaper.

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Steps

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In a heat proof bowl , soak chilies in boiling water for 30 minutes.

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Drain , discarding soaking liquid and stems.

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Pat dry , chop finely and set aside.

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In a non stick fry pan , heat oil over medium high heat , add pork in batches , and brown on all sides.

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Using a slotted spoon , transfer to crock pot.

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Reduce heat to medium , add onions to fry pan and cook , stirring , until softened.

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Add garlic , jalapeno peppers , cumin seeds , oregano , cinnamon , allspice , salt , peppercorns and reserved chilies and cook , stirring for 1 minute , stir in lime juice and zest.

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Pour over pork and stir to combine.

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Sweet potato topping: in a bowl , mix together sweet potatoes , butter and brown sugar until well combined.

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Season to taste.

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Spread topping over pork mixture.

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Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours , until pork is tender and mixture is hot and bubbling.

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Ingredients

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dried new mexico chiles, boiling water, vegetable oil, stewing pork, onions, garlic cloves, jalapeno pepper, cumin seeds, dried oregano, ground cinnamon, salt, ground allspice, black peppercorns, lime zest, lime juice, sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, salt & freshly ground black pepper