This scrumptious Mexican ground beef stew is packed with flavor and a touch of spice from jalapeños. Each bite is comforting and warming, perfect for any family dinner!
Honestly, the combination of tender beef and zesty peppers makes it hard to stop at just one bowl. I love serving it with some warm tortillas—so good you’ll want to dance! 💃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture. If you want a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. They will work fine but may require some extra seasoning to keep the flavor robust.
Jalapeños: Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your spice preference. If you’re unsure, start with one and add more later. For a milder dish, you can use bell peppers or poblano peppers instead.
Potatoes: I like using russet potatoes because they hold their shape well. If you want a different texture, consider using sweet potatoes or even cubed carrots for a fun twist.
Beef broth: For a lighter option, feel free to substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth. You could also use water, but the depth of flavor won’t be as rich.
How Do I Ensure My Beef Stew Is Full of Flavor?
Flavorful beef stew is all about layering ingredients at the right time. Here’s what to focus on:
- Start with sautéing the onions and garlic in oil to create a flavor base.
- When browning the ground beef, make sure it’s nice and browned for extra depth; this caramelization adds a lot!
- Add spices after the beef is cooked to release their essential oils and aromas.
- Let it simmer long enough for all the flavors to meld. A little patience goes a long way!
When adjusting seasonings at the end, always remember to taste as you go. Everyone’s flavor preference is different!
Mexican Ground Beef Stew with Jalapeño
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 fresh jalapeños, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups beef broth or water
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)
For the Garnish (optional):
- Fresh chopped cilantro or green onions
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty, tasty stew will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-40 minutes to cook. You’ll have a warm pot of comfort ready in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant—this is where a lot of flavor starts!
2. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook it until it’s nicely browned all over, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If you see a lot of fat, you can drain some off if you want a lighter dish.
3. Add Those Veggies:
Stir in the diced jalapeños and green bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. The color and heat are coming together!
4. Spice It Up:
Now, toss in the diced tomatoes, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3 minutes to enhance those spices.
5. Bring It to Life:
Pour in the beef broth (or water) and add the diced potatoes. Give it a good stir, then bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Let It Simmer:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. Check every now and then to ensure the potatoes are tender and everything is blending nicely.
7. Final Taste Test:
Taste your stew and tweak any seasoning to your liking. Maybe it needs a pinch more salt or spice—go ahead and adjust!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your stew hot, garnished with sliced fresh jalapeño, cilantro, or green onions, and lime wedges on the side if you like that extra zing. Enjoy this cozy meal!
With its combination of beef, veggies, and a kick of heat, this stew is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef. Keep in mind that they are leaner, so you may want to add a little extra oil or seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder stew, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds before adding them. Conversely, for more heat, you can add additional jalapeños or even some crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Can I Make This Stew Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or use additional beans for protein. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a tasty vegetarian version.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the stew on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens up too much in the fridge.
