Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that stretches your ground beef and pleases the whole family? Look no further than this incredible Mexican Ground Beef Stew! This recipe isn't just about throwing ingredients into a pot; it's about building layers of rich, complex flavor that will leave everyone wanting seconds (and maybe thirds!). We're talking tender beef simmered in a vibrant tomato-based broth, infused with the warmth of chili powder and cumin, and brightened with the zest of lime. It's the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, a satisfying weeknight dinner, or a delicious centerpiece for your next gathering.
Forget bland, boring ground beef dishes! This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. The beautiful blend of spices and the slow-simmering process unlock the full potential of your ground beef, resulting in a tender, juicy, and intensely flavorful stew. Ready to transform your humble ground beef into a fiesta of flavor? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Plastic bag
- Blender or Molcajete
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 0.5 kg
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic: 1 clove, finely chopped
- Baby Bella mushrooms
- Corn kernels: 1 large
- Poblano peppers: 3
- Onion: 0.5, cut into feather shape
- Serrano chili: optional
- Ripe tomatoes: 4
- Cilantro: 1 bunch
- Cumin
- Dried oregano
- Oil
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Season Ground Beef
- Season ground beef with salt, pepper, and finely chopped garlic.
- Clean and slice baby bella mushrooms.
- Roast poblano peppers (lightly oiled) until blistered, then sweat in a plastic bag to easily peel.
- Prepare the sauce by blending ripe tomatoes, onion, garlic, cilantro, spices, and water in a blender or molcajete.
- In a hot pan, brown the ground beef, adding the chopped garlic. Stir constantly to break up the meat.
Step 2. Sauté Vegetables and Build Flavor
- Add onion and corn kernels to the beef and fry for 5 minutes.
- Add serrano pepper (optional) and fry for 1 minute.
- Add sliced mushrooms, season with salt, and stir.
- After 5 minutes, when mushrooms release their juice, pour in the prepared sauce. Season with salt and stir.
Step 3. Simmer and Finish the Stew
- Cover and simmer for 10 minutes over medium-low heat.
- Add poblano pepper strips and cook for another 10 minutes until softened.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot with warm corn tortillas and red rice.
Read more: Authentic Charro Beans Recipe: South Texas Style
Tips
- Use a damp paper towel to clean mushrooms.
- Don't over-sweat the poblanos in the bag; they'll continue to cook.
- Stir the meat frequently while cooking to ensure even browning and breaking down.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of beef?
Yes! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute with ground chuck, sirloin, or even a blend. Just be aware that leaner meats might require a bit more liquid.
2. How can I make this spicier or milder?
For spicier stew, add more chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a diced jalapeño. For milder stew, reduce the chili powder or omit the jalapeño. You can also adjust the type of chili powder used.
This Mexican Ground Beef Stew is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients and slow cooking. Enjoy the satisfying warmth and incredible flavor of this budget-friendly, family-pleasing meal. From weeknight dinners to special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.