Caldillo de Chile Verde

Ingredients

1 lb. lean stew meat

1 – 2 Tbl. Olive Oil

½ cup onion, diced

2-4 cloves minced garlic

1 ½ tsb. Garlic Powder

1 tsb. Salt

1 tsb. Garlic Salt

¼ tsb. Cumin

1 tsb. Pepper

1 jar Hot Green Salsa

¼ cup water

1 potato, chopped and peeled

2 pieces of Mexican Squash, chopped

Optional:

1 Tbl. Cilantro, chopped

1 small can of chopped tomatoes

Roasted corn

Instructions:

Cover the bottom of a large cooking pot with olive oil. Let it heat.

While the oil heats, cut the meat into smaller pieces if need be.

Add the onion to the pot and cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes.

Add meat, garlic, and spices into the pot. Cook until the meat is browned.

Once the meat is browned, add salsa, water, potato, and squash

Cook on low heat (put the lid on the pot) for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are soft.

Serve with tortillas and garnish with Mexican cheese

Notes:

Adjusting Spice Level: Use milder or spicier salsa, and adjust cumin, garlic powder, and pepper to taste.

Meat Substitution: Substitute with other cuts of beef, chicken, or turkey.

Alternative to Mexican Squash: Use zucchini or yellow squash.

Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Omit meat and add more vegetables with vegetable broth.

Make-Ahead: Prepare in advance; flavors meld well when reheated.

Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.

Customization: Add roasted corn, bell peppers, or beans for variety.

Seasoning Adjustment: Taste and adjust salt, garlic powder, garlic salt, cumin, and pepper.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Flavor Enhancement: Add lime juice, vinegar, or fresh herbs like cilantro for extra flavor.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

How can I adjust the spice level of the Caldillo de Chile Verde?

You can adjust the spice level of the Caldillo de Chile Verde by using a milder or spicier salsa according to your preference.

Additionally, you can control the heat by reducing or increasing the amount of cumin, garlic powder, and pepper used in the recipe.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of stew meat?

Yes, you can substitute lean stew meat with other cuts of beef or even with chicken or turkey if you prefer.

Just ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly before adding other ingredients.

Are there any alternatives for Mexican squash?

If you can’t find Mexican squash, you can substitute it with zucchini or yellow squash, which have a similar texture and taste.

Cut them into similar-sized pieces as mentioned in the recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! You can omit the stew meat and instead add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or beans to make a delicious vegetarian or vegan version of Caldillo de Chile Verde.

Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

Can I prepare Caldillo de Chile Verde ahead of time?

Yes, Caldillo de Chile Verde can be prepared ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.

In fact, the flavors tend to meld together even more when allowed to sit, making it a great dish to prepare in advance for busy days.

Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Can I freeze Caldillo de Chile Verde?

Yes, Caldillo de Chile Verde freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.

It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What are some optional ingredients I can add to Caldillo de Chile Verde?

You can customize Caldillo de Chile Verde by adding ingredients like roasted corn, bell peppers, carrots, or beans for additional flavor and texture.

Experiment with different toppings like avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for variety.

Can I adjust the seasoning to my taste preferences?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, garlic powder, garlic salt, cumin, and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Start with the suggested amounts and adjust as needed.

What should I serve with Caldillo de Chile Verde?

Caldillo is traditionally served with warm tortillas for dipping or alongside rice for a heartier meal.

You can also serve it with a side of Mexican-inspired salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How can I make Caldillo de Chile Verde even more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of Caldillo de Chile Verde, you can add a splash of lime juice or vinegar towards the end of cooking for a tangy kick.

Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also be added as a garnish for added freshness.

Caldillo de Chile Verde