Mexican Beef Stew
A delightful culinary journey of tender beef and vibrant vegetables, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef, cut into bite-sized pieces Choose a well-marbled cut like chuck or brisket for ultimate tenderness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil Adds a rich, smooth flavor to your dish.
- 2 jalapeños, finely diced Brings a bright, spicy kick.
- 1 red onion, finely diced Forms a delicious base.
- 2 cloves crushed garlic Enhances the stew's savory essence.
- 1 yellow pepper, chopped Offers a sweet crunch.
- 3 cups beef broth Provides a robust depth of flavor.
- 28 fl oz canned tomatoes Adds a luscious, tangy layer.
- 1 tbsp cumin Provides a warm, aromatic note.
- 1/2 tbsp smoked paprika Imparts subtle smokiness.
- 1/2 tbsp coriander Adds a fresh citrus-like flavor.
- 1 tsp chili powder Offers extra heat and complexity.
- 1/2 tsp salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
- 2 cups cubed butternut squash Adds a sweet creaminess.
- 1 can black beans (optional) Provides additional protein.
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro Brightens the stew, perfect for garnishing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Once hot, add the bite-sized beef pieces and cook them for about 6 minutes, or until they are beautifully browned. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium. Add the finely diced jalapeños, red onion, and crushed garlic to the pot. Sauté until aromatic and the onions turn translucent (about 5 minutes).
Cooking
- Add the chopped yellow pepper, cooked beef, beef broth, and canned tomatoes into the pot. Stir in the spices (cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, chili powder, salt) and cover the pot to simmer for 1 hour.
- After an hour, introduce the cubed butternut squash and optional black beans. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
- Before serving, stir in the fresh cilantro. Optionally, top with slices of jalapeño, chopped tomatoes, salsa, or more cilantro.
Notes
For best results, choose cuts that benefit from slow cooking, like chuck roast or brisket. Customize spices to taste and consider adding more veggies like carrots or corn. This can also be made in a slow cooker for convenience.