Craving a hearty yet healthy meal that's bursting with flavor? Look no further than our Lean Beef Stew with Chayote and Zucchini! This vibrant dish combines the richness of lean beef with the subtle sweetness of chayote and the freshness of zucchini, creating a satisfying and nutritious experience. Forget heavy, greasy stews; this recipe is light, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. We use lean beef to keep things healthy and add a burst of fresh herbs and spices to elevate the taste. The chayote and zucchini provide a delightful textural contrast and add essential vitamins and minerals to this wholesome meal.
This delicious and surprisingly easy-to-make stew is packed with flavor and goodness. Ready to dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions and create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen? Let’s get started!
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Blender
- Pot
- Stove
Ingredients
- Very thin beef steak: 600 grams
- Salt
- Pepper
- Vinegar
- Soy sauce
- Garlic: 1 clove (finely chopped) + 2 cloves (for sauce)
- Onion: ½ small (finely chopped) + 1 small (for sauce)
- Large chayote: 1 (peeled and diced)
- Zucchini: 2 (cut into cubes)
- Tomatoes: 5 (slightly over ½ kilo)
- Serrano pepper: 1
- Jalapeño peppers: a few (deseeded and sliced)
- Cumin: a pinch
- Mexican oregano: a pinch
- Thyme: a pinch
- Cooking oil
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Sear the Beef
- Cut the beef into strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes with salt, pepper, vinegar, and soy sauce. Add finely chopped garlic and half a small onion for extra flavor.
- In a hot pot, sear the marinated beef over high heat. Add chopped garlic.
- Lower heat, cover, and cook for 7-8 minutes, adding a little water if needed to maintain moisture.
Step 2. Prepare and Blend the Sauce
- Boil serrano pepper for 5 minutes, then add tomatoes and cook until skins burst. Let cool.
- Blend the cooked tomatoes with raw onion, garlic, serrano pepper, spices, and some cooking water. Do not strain.
Step 3. Simmer with Vegetables
- After 35 minutes, add the chopped onion and chayote. Season with salt and fry.
- Add the prepared tomato sauce, stir, and simmer on medium-low heat, covered for 10 minutes.
- Add the jalapeño slices and zucchini. Stir, cover, and cook until zucchini is tender (about 15 minutes).
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot.
Read more: Authentic Charro Beans Recipe: South Texas Style
Tips
- Using thin-sliced beef helps it soften quicker.
- Vinegar and soy sauce help tenderize the meat.
- Don't strain the sauce; the texture is better with the blended ingredients.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Is this stew truly healthy?
Yes! This recipe emphasizes lean proteins and plenty of vegetables, making it a nutritious and balanced meal. It's lower in fat and calories compared to traditional stews.
2. Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Other squash varieties, bell peppers, or corn would all work well.
3. How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch or two of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a few slices of jalapeño to adjust the heat level to your liking. You can also use a spicier variety of chili for the base.
This Mexican Diet Stew is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights, yet the taste is impressive enough for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to experience the vibrant flavors of this wholesome and satisfying stew!