Hatch Green Chile Stew With Ground Beef
Hatch Green Chile Stew with Ground Beef is a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the rich, smoky taste of roasted Hatch green chiles. This comforting stew combines tender ground beef with diced potatoes, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic garlic, simmered to perfection in a savory broth.
It’s a delightful blend of spicy and savory flavors that will warm you up on a chilly day. Perfect for a family meal or a cozy gathering, this stew is a true taste of the Southwest.
Hatch Green Chile Stew with Ground Beef
Ingredients:
1 1/2 lbs ground beef (90/10 for less grease) or choice of protein
5 medium-sized potatoes, diced
1/2 onion, chopped
1 whole tomato, chopped
6-8 roasted Hatch green chiles, peeled and chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Chicken bouillon (Knorr powdered) to taste
2 cups water
Instructions:
Cook the Beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef with the chopped onions over medium heat. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft.
Add Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing them to start softening.
Add Chiles and Seasonings: Add the chopped roasted Hatch green chiles, chopped tomato, garlic, salt, pepper, and chicken bouillon to the pot. Mix well.
Add Water: Pour in about 2 cups of water, ensuring the ingredients are just covered.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the stew simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors are well combined.
Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving. Enjoy hot!
Notes:
Choosing Peppers: Use roasted Hatch green chiles for the best flavor. If fresh Hatch chiles aren’t available, you can use canned green chiles, but they might be less smoky.
Beef Alternatives: For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Just be aware that the flavor and richness may differ slightly.
Adjusting Heat: The heat level can vary based on the chiles used. Taste the stew as it simmers and adjust the seasoning or add more chiles if you prefer a spicier stew.
Potato Varieties: Russet potatoes work well, but you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes if you prefer a different texture or flavor.
Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot towards the end of cooking or stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
Seasoning: Be cautious with the amount of chicken bouillon as it can be salty. Taste and adjust the seasoning gradually.
Making Ahead: This stew can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Garnishes: Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions: Pair the stew with warm tortillas, cornbread, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: ~320 kcal | Total Fat: ~18g | Saturated Fat: ~6g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: ~75mg | Sodium: ~850mg | Total Carbohydrates: ~30g | Dietary Fiber: ~4g | Sugars: ~5g | Protein: ~16g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground pork, turkey, or chicken for the beef.
Adjust the cooking time as needed for different meats.
Can I use fresh green chiles instead of roasted?
Fresh chiles can be used, but roasting them will enhance their flavor.
If you use fresh, make sure to roast or grill them to bring out their smokiness.
How can I make this stew spicier?
To add more heat, include additional roasted chiles or a dash of hot sauce.
Adjust according to your spice preference.
What can I use if I don’t have chicken bouillon?
You can substitute with vegetable or beef broth for a different flavor.
Just adjust the salt to taste since these may have varying sodium levels.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stew ahead of time. It often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.
Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
How can I thicken the stew?
For a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes in the pot or stir in a slurry made from cornstarch and water.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes instead of Russet potatoes.
Each type will give a slightly different texture and flavor.
How long should I simmer the stew?
Simmer the stew on medium-low heat for about 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have combined.
Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or corn.
Just adjust the cooking time accordingly so all ingredients cook evenly.
What should I serve with this stew?
This stew pairs well with warm tortillas, cornbread, or a side salad.
You can also top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro for extra flavor.