Hearty Mexican Beef Stew Recipe with Black Beans and Green Peppers

Slow Cooker Mexican Beef Stew

Hearty Mexican Beef Stew Recipe with Black Beans and Green Peppers
Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 9-11 hours (slow cooker) + 15-30 minutes (high heat) | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Slow Cooker Mexican Beef Stew
Slow Cooker Mexican Beef Stew

This Slow Cooker Mexican Beef Stew recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with flavorful ingredients like tomatoes, onions, chili powder, taco seasoning, black beans, and Mexicorn, this stew is sure to satisfy your cravings for a warm and comforting meal.

History

Mexican beef stew has been a popular dish in Mexican cuisine for many years. The combination of tender beef, tomatoes, and spices creates a rich and flavorful stew that is loved by many. Slow cooking the ingredients allows the flavors to meld together and creates a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In a 3.5- to 4 qt (3.78 liter) slow cooker, mix together beef, tomatoes, frozen onions, and chili powder.
  2. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat setting for 9 to 11 hours, or until the beef is tender.
  3. Using a wire whisk, stir in taco seasoning mix. Then, stir in black beans and corn.
  4. Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high heat setting for 15 to 30 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
  5. Note: This recipe was tested in slow cookers with heating elements in the side and bottom of the cooker, not in cookers that stand only on a heated base.
  6. If using a slow cooker with just a heated base, please follow the manufacturer's directions for layering ingredients and choosing a temperature.

Variations

  • Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for extra heat and flavor.
  • Substitute the beef with chicken or pork for a different twist on this recipe.
  • Top the stew with shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado for a creamy and indulgent finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For extra flavor, sear the meat before adding it to the slow cooker.

- If you prefer a spicier stew, add some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.

- To thicken the stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the stew before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious stew with a side of warm tortillas, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the ingredients allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender and juicy. This method of cooking also makes the stew easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can swap out the beef for chicken, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also add or omit any vegetables or spices to create a stew that is uniquely yours.

Make Ahead Tips

This stew can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the stew with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This Slow Cooker Mexican Beef Stew pairs well with a cold beer, a glass of red wine, or a refreshing glass of iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stew on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Slow Cooker Mexican Beef Stew contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

This Slow Cooker Mexican Beef Stew recipe contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 10 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 25 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This stew is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains beef and may not be suitable for those with beef allergies.

Summary

This Slow Cooker Mexican Beef Stew is a well-balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Summary

This Slow Cooker Mexican Beef Stew is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with flavorful ingredients and easy to prepare, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a chilly autumn day, and I had been rummaging through an old recipe box that had belonged to my mother. As I flipped through the dog-eared cards and faded clippings, one particular recipe caught my eye: Slow Cooker Mexican Beef Stew.

I had always loved Mexican food, with its bold flavors and vibrant colors. The idea of a hearty, spicy stew simmering away in the slow cooker all day seemed like the perfect comfort food for a cold evening. And so, I set out to learn how to make it.

I called up my dear friend Maria, who was known far and wide for her amazing Mexican cooking. She invited me over to her cozy kitchen, where the air was filled with the delicious aroma of spices and simmering sauces. As we worked together, Maria patiently guided me through the steps of preparing the stew.

First, we browned the beef in a hot skillet, letting the meat sizzle and caramelize before transferring it to the slow cooker. Then, we added in the onions, garlic, and a medley of colorful bell peppers, letting them soften and release their sweet aromas. Next came the tomatoes, with their rich, tangy flavor, and a handful of spices – cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika – that filled the kitchen with warmth and depth.

As the stew bubbled and simmered, Maria shared stories of her own family and the traditions that had been passed down through generations. She spoke of her abuela, who had taught her the art of Mexican cooking, and the joy of gathering around the table with loved ones to share a meal made with care and love.

I listened intently, absorbing every word and every gesture as Maria expertly stirred and tasted the stew, adjusting the seasonings with a deft hand. By the time the stew was ready, I felt as though I had been initiated into a sacred culinary tradition, a world of flavors and aromas that spoke of history and heritage.

As we sat down to eat, the stew was everything I had hoped for and more. The tender, succulent beef melted in my mouth, while the vegetables retained their vibrant colors and textures. The broth was rich and spicy, with a depth of flavor that seemed to linger on the palate long after the last spoonful had been savored.

From that day on, Slow Cooker Mexican Beef Stew became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and cozy nights in by the fire. Each time, I would think of Maria and the lessons she had taught me, not just about cooking, but about the importance of tradition, community, and sharing a meal with those we love.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding in some fresh herbs here, a splash of tequila there. But the heart and soul of the dish remain the same – a warm, comforting stew that speaks to the richness of Mexican cuisine and the love and care that goes into every bite.

And so, whenever I make Slow Cooker Mexican Beef Stew, I am reminded of that fateful day in Maria's kitchen, when I first learned to make this delicious dish. It is a recipe that has been passed down through the ages, from cook to cook, generation to generation, and I am grateful to have been a part of its journey.

Categories

| Beef Recipes | Black Bean Recipes | Chili Powder Recipes | Corn Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Mexican Recipes | Taco Seasoning Recipes | World Recipes |

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