Craving a hearty, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this quick and easy ground beef stew recipe! Packed with tender ground beef, a medley of vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory gravy, this stew is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; this recipe prioritizes simplicity without sacrificing flavor, resulting in a satisfying dish the whole family will love. It's a perfect way to use up leftover vegetables, and easily adaptable to your preferred seasonings and ingredients.
This recipe offers a fantastic balance of texture and taste, with the ground beef providing heartiness and the vegetables adding a delightful freshness. Ready to dive into the simple, step-by-step process of creating this flavorful ground beef stew? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Comal or frying pan
- Blender
Ingredients
- Ground beef (20% fat): 0.5 kg
- Cumin: 1/4 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Bay leaf: 1 1/2 leaves
- Tomatoes: 3
- Chile pulla: 3
- Tomatillos: 7
- Garlic: 4 cloves
- Onion: 1/4
- Potato (medium): 1
- Carrot: 1
- Zucchini: 1
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Oil: 1 tablespoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Roast and Blend
- Roast tomatoes, tomatillos, and onion on a comal or frying pan.
- Blend roasted tomatoes, tomatillos, onion, pepper, cumin, garlic, and a little water into a sauce.
Step 2. Brown Beef and Build Flavor
- Heat oil in a pan and brown the ground beef over medium heat. Season with salt.
- Add bay leaf to the ground beef and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the blended sauce, diced carrot, and potatoes to the ground beef. Add about a cup of water.
Step 3. Simmer to Tenderness
- Simmer until potatoes and carrots are tender.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Add zucchini and cook for a few more minutes.
- Turn off the heat and serve.
Read more: Authentic Charro Beans Recipe: South Texas Style
Tips
- Ensure the ground beef is seasoned well with salt.
- Adjust the amount of water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
2. How can I make this stew thicker?
Simmer the stew uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) at the end.
3. Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This quick and easy ground beef stew is a versatile and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the simple preparation, making it a recipe you'll return to again and again. Now go forth and enjoy your hearty, homemade stew!