Beef Stew with Potatoes and Peppers
Nothing says comfort like a hearty beef stew, and this one is filled with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors that make it a memorable meal. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious beef stew with potatoes, peppers, and a tomato-based sauce infused with a mild kick from serrano peppers. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is versatile and adaptable to different tastes. Plus, there are tips for making it even more satisfying. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chuck roast (diezmillo), sirloin, or top round, sliced thin
- 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
- 1 tsp pepper, plus more to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 3 tbsp avocado or olive oil
- 5 roma tomatoes, 495 grams, quartered
- 1 medium white onion, 242 grams, peeled and sliced in half (dice half and reserve for later)
- 3 cloves garlic, 12 grams, mashed
- 2 serrano peppers, 44 grams (one roughly chopped, one left whole)
- 1/3 cup cilantro, washed and roughly chopped
- 3 cups water or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or 3 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
- 1 large poblano, green or red bell pepper, 136 grams, finely diced
- 3 medium russet potatoes, 470 grams, peeled and diced
Preparation and Cooking Steps
Step 1: Seasoning the Beef
Start by seasoning the sliced beef. In a large bowl, add the thin slices of beef and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, cumin, and oregano. Toss the beef thoroughly to ensure the seasonings coat each piece evenly. This will infuse the beef with a layer of flavor from the start, ensuring that every bite is rich and savory. Once seasoned, set the beef aside and let it absorb the spices.
Step 2: Browning the Beef
In a large pot, heat three tablespoons of avocado or olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to heat for about 3-4 minutes to prevent sticking and promote even browning. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned beef and brown it. Stir occasionally, allowing each side of the meat to caramelize and develop a deep flavor. This process should take around 10 minutes. Once the beef is nicely browned, it’s ready for the next layer of flavor.
Step 3: Preparing the Tomato Sauce
While the beef is browning, prepare the tomato sauce. In a blender, combine the quartered roma tomatoes, half of the sliced onion, mashed garlic, roughly chopped serrano pepper, cilantro, and the tomato sauce (if using). Pour in the water or chicken broth to give the mixture a smooth consistency, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Blend on high until you achieve a smooth, rich sauce. This sauce will serve as the stew’s base, providing a balance of acidity, sweetness, and a touch of spice.
Step 4: Building the Stew
Once the beef has browned, add the remaining diced onion and the finely diced poblano or bell pepper to the pot. Sauté these vegetables alongside the beef for around 5 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their flavors. Add the reserved whole serrano pepper, which will slowly infuse the stew with a mild heat.
Now, pour the blended tomato sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir everything to combine and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot (leaving a small gap), and allow the stew to cook for about 15-20 minutes. During this time, the sauce will deepen in color and thicken slightly, intensifying the flavors.
Step 5: Adding the Potatoes
After the initial simmer, it’s time to add the diced potatoes. Fold them gently into the stew, making sure they are submerged in the sauce for even cooking. Cover the pot once again and continue simmering for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will allow the potatoes to cook through and absorb the flavors of the stew. The stew is ready once the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty beef stew pairs perfectly with a side of fluffy rice, refried beans, and warm tortillas. The rice helps soak up the flavorful sauce, while the tortillas are great for scooping up tender pieces of beef and vegetables. For an added twist, consider garnishing the stew with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Tips for Success
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Choosing the Right Beef
For a tender stew, choose cuts of beef with good marbling, like chuck roast or sirloin. These cuts break down during cooking, becoming melt-in-your-mouth tender. -
Blending the Sauce
Blending the tomatoes, onion, and serrano pepper creates a cohesive sauce that melds the flavors beautifully. If you prefer a chunkier stew, pulse the blender until you reach your desired texture. -
Adjusting Spice Level
Serrano peppers add a mild heat, but if you prefer a spicier stew, add an extra serrano or even a jalapeño. Alternatively, if you want a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the serrano before blending. -
Using Chicken Broth
Chicken broth adds a richer, deeper flavor compared to water. If you’re looking for a heartier taste, definitely opt for broth over water. -
Optional Vegetables
Add variety to the stew by including vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or chayote, which will enhance both flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use a different meat instead of beef?
Absolutely! Pork steaks or boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this stew. Just slice them thinly, season, and brown them the same way as the beef.
How can I store leftovers?
This stew keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully; let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Can I make this stew spicier?
Yes! For extra spice, add more serrano peppers or include a jalapeño or two. Adjust according to your preference.
What if I don’t have a blender?
If you don’t have a blender, you can finely chop the tomatoes, garlic, and onion, and then simmer them directly in the pot with the beef. This method will yield a chunkier sauce, but it’s still delicious.
What should I do if my stew is too thin?
If the stew is too thin, continue simmering it uncovered to let excess liquid evaporate, which will thicken the sauce naturally.
Enjoy making this comforting beef stew, and savor the complex layers of flavor in every bite!