Pinto Bean, Green Chile, and Beef Soup
Ingredients:
- Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if beef is lean)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cooked pinto beans (or 1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles (mild or hot, depending on preference)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)
- Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional Additions:
- 1 cup frozen corn (for sweetness)
- For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Directions:
1. Brown the Beef:
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
- If the beef is lean, add olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Drain any excess grease.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Build the Soup Base:
- Stir in the green chiles, diced tomatoes, and pinto beans.
- Add the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Add the Broth:
- Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Optional Additions:
- Stir in frozen corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a touch of sweetness.
6. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for a tangy finish.
- Pair with cornbread, tortillas, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 320
- Servings: 6
This hearty soup is a perfect combination of smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and pairs wonderfully with classic sides like cornbread or tortillas!