Southwest Beef Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender chunks of beef with the bold flavors of the Southwest. This stew is packed with smoky spices, tomatoes, beans, corn, and green chilies, making it a warm and satisfying meal that’s perfect for cooler days. Serve it with cornbread or warm tortillas for a complete, comforting dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or more to taste)
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn (or fresh)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef stew meat with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the beef to the pot in batches, browning on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Spices:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and tomato paste. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and chili powder. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the Stew:
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Stir in the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, black beans, and corn. Continue to simmer the stew for another 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top, along with cornbread or warm tortillas.
Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Southwest Beef Stew as a comforting meal that’s perfect for any time you crave a taste of the Southwest!
