Craving a hearty, flavorful stew that's surprisingly quick and easy to make? Look no further than this Morita chili beef stew recipe! This recipe delivers a rich, smoky depth of flavor thanks to the unique Morita chilis, adding a delicious kick without overwhelming the tender beef and hearty vegetables. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; this comforting dish comes together effortlessly, perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend gathering. The blend of spices and the slow simmering process create a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
This Morita chili beef stew is surprisingly simple, using readily available ingredients to create a complex and satisfying taste. Ready to transform ordinary beef stew into an extraordinary meal? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this delicious dish together.
Tools Needed
- Molcajete (or mortar and pestle)
- Blender
- Kitchen scissors
- Pot
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic: 1 large clove
- Potato: 1 medium
- Zucchini: 1 large
- Onion: ½ small
- Tomatoes: 4
- Morita chiles
- Chicken bouillon powder
- Cumin: a pinch
- Black pepper
- Corn tortillas
- White rice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Sauce
- Season ground beef with salt, pepper, and finely chopped garlic.
- Cut potatoes and zucchini into dice, and onion into feather shapes.
- In a pot of boiling water, add Morita chiles to hydrate (5-6 minutes).
- Add tomatoes (stems removed) to the pot and cook until skins burst. Turn off heat and let cool.
- Remove seeds and veins from the chiles (optional).
- Blend the Morita chiles, onion, garlic, spices, and water from cooking the tomatoes and chiles.
- Add the blended mixture to the cooled tomatoes and blend again.
Step 2. Brown the Beef and Vegetables
- In a hot pan with a little oil, fry the seasoned ground beef until cooked through. Add chopped garlic during cooking.
- Add diced potatoes and onions, season with salt, and fry with meat for 5 minutes.
Step 3. Simmer the Stew
- Add the prepared red sauce, add water if needed for desired consistency. Season with salt or chicken broth powder. Simmer covered for 10 minutes.
- Add the sliced zucchini, stir and cover for another 15 minutes to cook.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot with warm corn tortillas and white rice.
Read more: Authentic Charro Beans Recipe: South Texas Style
Tips
- Use kitchen scissors to cut the stems of Morita chiles for easier hydration.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the Morita chilis with another type of chili?
Yes, you can! Ancho chilis or chipotle chilis would offer a similar smoky flavor profile. Adjust the amount based on your preferred heat level.
2. What kind of beef is best for this stew?
Chuck roast or stew beef work wonderfully. These cuts are tough enough to hold up during the simmering process but become incredibly tender.
3. Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Quick & Easy Morita Chili Beef Stew is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich, smoky flavors and the satisfying warmth this delicious stew provides. So gather your ingredients and experience the joy of creating this simple yet unforgettable meal!