Description
A classic and hearty Mexican dish featuring tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, spicy red chile sauce. This Beef Chile Colorado is a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 dried New Mexico chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- Optional garnishes: cilantro, sour cream, cheese, tortillas
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides. Remove beef and set aside.
- Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- While the onions are cooking, rehydrate the dried chiles. Place the deseeded chiles in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for about 20-30 minutes until softened.
- Drain the rehydrated chiles and place them in a blender with 1 cup of beef broth. Blend until smooth.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the blended chile sauce, the remaining 1 cup of beef broth, and the can of diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 2 to 3 hours, or until the beef is very tender. Stir occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and warm tortillas.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, leave some of the chile seeds in.
- If you can’t find New Mexico or ancho chiles, you can substitute with guajillo chiles.
- This dish freezes well, making it great for meal prep.
- Ensure beef is tender before serving. If not, continue simmering.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2.5 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican