Green Chile Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms both the body and soul. This Mexican-inspired recipe embraces the bold flavors of roasted green chiles and tender beef, all simmered to perfection. With every spoonful, you’ll experience a delightful fusion of spices and textures, making it a comforting choice for any family gathering or chilly evening.
This step-by-step guide ensures you’ll whip up this savory stew with ease. Creating a dish this delicious is not only satisfying but also worth it for the memories made around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the primary benefits of this Green Chile Stew recipe is its straightforward preparation. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, cooking becomes a joy rather than a chore. It’s family-friendly, catering to various palates and allowing for personal tweaks. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or aiming to impress your guests with traditional flavors, this stew fits the bill beautifully. Plus, it boasts crowd-pleasing qualities, making it a must-have in your recipe repertoire!
Ingredients for Green Chile Stew
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil: A rich, golden oil for sautéing that lends depth to the stew.
- 1.5 lbs Beef Stew Meat: Cut into 1-inch cubes for tenderness that melts in your mouth.
- Salt to taste: Essential for enhancing flavors.
- Black Pepper to taste: Adds a subtle kick and warmth.
- 1 Large Onion, chopped: Sweet and aromatic, it forms a fragrant base.
- 3 Garlic cloves, minced: Adds robust flavor and aroma.
- 1 lb Tomatillos, husked and chopped: Provides a tart, refreshing twist.
- 3-4 Green Chiles, such as poblano or Anaheim: Roasted, peeled, and chopped for smokiness and depth.
- 1 Jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional): For those who enjoy an extra layer of heat.
- 4 cups Beef Broth: A comforting liquid that melds the ingredients together.
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin: Introduces an earthy warmth to the stew.
- 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano: Offers a herbal note that complements the other ingredients.
- Fresh Cilantro, chopped (for garnish): A pop of color and freshness to the final dish.
- Lime Wedges: To brighten the flavors when served.
Step-by-Step Directions for Green Chile Stew
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat. This is the perfect temperature to start browning the meat.
- Prepare the Beef: Season the beef stew meat generously with salt and black pepper. Add the meat in batches to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the meat on all sides for about 3 to 4 minutes per batch, transferring the browned pieces to a plate once done.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onions. Cook them until softened, around 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate the Veggies: Stir in the chopped tomatillos, the roasted green chiles, and jalapeño if you choose to include it. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, letting the tomatillos soften and break down.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and add ground cumin along with dried oregano. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, partially cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Final Touches: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Ladle portions into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro. Serve alongside warm tortillas, crusty bread, or over a bed of rice to complete your meal.
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your Green Chile Stew, consider these chef’s secrets:
- Fresher Ingredients: Use fresh, seasonal ingredients for the best flavor. If possible, roast your chiles for a more intense smokiness.
- Beef Options: Chuck roast makes for a great alternative if you prefer a fattier cut.
- Leftovers Magic: This stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Thickening Techniques: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can blend a portion of it and stir it back in before serving.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Green Chile Stew is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments. Serve it in front of a roaring fire with crispy tortillas to scoop up the hearty stew or alongside a light cucumber salad for balance. For those looking to elevate the meal, consider serving it with Mexican rice or a refreshing avocado salad. For a delightful feast, top the stew with cheese, sour cream, and additional cilantro for a true flavor explosion!
Nutritional Information
While indulging in a warm and hearty bowl of Green Chile Stew, it’s important to consider its nutritional value. Each serving is a good source of protein from the beef, alongside essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. On average, a serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
This stew is a flavorful indulgence, perfect for cozy gatherings or a nutritious family dinner.
Storing Tips & Variations for Green Chile Stew
If you have leftovers, Green Chile Stew can be easily stored for future meals. Simply let it cool and transfer it to airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
To make it healthier, consider using lean cuts of beef or substituting some of the broth with water. You can also add in a variety of beans or vegetables to stretch the stew and enhance its nutritional profile.
Conclusion for Green Chile Stew
Now that you have the perfect recipe for Green Chile Stew, it’s time to bring the warm scents of simmering flavors into your home. The combination of hearty beef, vibrant chiles, and aromatic spices creates a dish that will have your family begging for seconds. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and start creating a meal that is not just food but an experience to enjoy together.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs or breasts can be used for a lighter version while keeping the same flavor profile.
2. How can I adjust the heat level of the stew?
To reduce the heat, omit the jalapeño and choose milder green chiles. For more spice, add additional jalapeños or other hot peppers.
3. Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. What sides go best with Green Chile Stew?
Serve it with warm tortillas, rice, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
5. Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, Green Chile Stew can be made a day in advance; it often tastes better the next day as the flavors develop even further. Just reheat when ready to serve!
Green Chile Stew
- Total Time: 110 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful Mexican-inspired stew featuring roasted green chiles and tender beef, perfect for cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1.5 lbs Beef Stew Meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt to taste
- Black Pepper to taste
- 1 Large Onion, chopped
- 3 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb Tomatillos, husked and chopped
- 3–4 Green Chiles, roasted, peeled, and chopped
- 1 Jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
- 4 cups Beef Broth
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin
- 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
- Fresh Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime Wedges
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef with salt and black pepper, and brown the meat in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per batch. Transfer to a plate once done.
- Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Stir in the chopped tomatillos, roasted green chiles, and jalapeño if using. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add beef broth, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
For a thicker stew, blend a portion and stir it back in. Use fresher ingredients for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
