Carne Con Papas En Salsa Verde

Carne Con Papas En Salsa Verde is a delightful Mexican dish that combines tender beef and hearty potatoes in a zesty tomatillo sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

The vibrant salsa verde, made with fresh tomatillos and peppers, brings a bright, tangy flavor that elevates the savory beef and soft potatoes. Serve it with warm tortillas or rice for a satisfying and flavorful experience!

Carne Con Papas En Salsa Verde

Ingredients:

For the Meat:

1 lb beef (chuck or sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 medium onion (chopped)

2-3 cloves garlic (minced)

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salsa Verde:

1 lb tomatillos (husked and rinsed)

2-3 serrano or jalapeño peppers (adjust for heat)

1/2 onion (quartered)

2 cloves garlic (peeled)

1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

Salt to taste

For the Potatoes:

2-3 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)

Instructions:

Create the Salsa Verde:

In a pot, combine the tomatillos, serrano peppers, quartered onion, and whole garlic cloves. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for approximately 10 minutes until softened. Drain and blend until you achieve a smooth consistency. Fold in the chopped cilantro and season with salt.

Sauté the Meat:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until aromatic.

Brown the Beef:

Incorporate the beef chunks into the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sear the meat until it’s browned on all sides.

Incorporate the Salsa Verde:

Pour the prepared salsa verde over the seared meat. Allow it to reach a gentle simmer, then cover the pot. Cook for about 30 minutes.

Add the Potatoes:

After the meat has simmered, introduce the diced potatoes to the mixture. Stir well to combine and cover once more. Continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors blend beautifully.

Serve:

Serve your Carne con Papas en Salsa Verde hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Pair it with warm tortillas or rice for a complete meal!

Notes:

Meat Choice: Chuck and sirloin are both great options for this dish. Chuck is more marbled, leading to a richer flavor, while sirloin is leaner and cooks faster.

Tomatillos: When selecting tomatillos, look for firm ones with bright green husks. They should be slightly sticky to the touch.

Spice Level: Adjust the number of serrano or jalapeño peppers based on your heat preference. Removing the seeds can help reduce spiciness.

Cooking Time: Ensure the beef is tender by allowing it to simmer long enough. If you have more time, cooking it longer on low heat will enhance the flavors even more.

Potato Variations: While regular potatoes work well, you can experiment with different types like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with warm tortillas, rice, or even beans for a complete meal.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often improve as they sit!

Garnish: Fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s flavor. Consider adding diced avocado or sour cream as well.

Meal Prep: You can prepare the salsa verde in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week to save time on cooking day.

Freezing: If you want to freeze this dish, do so before adding the potatoes. They can become mushy upon thawing and reheating.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can use pork, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Adjust cooking times as needed.

What if I can’t find tomatillos?

You can substitute with green tomatoes or a combination of green bell peppers and a bit of lime juice for acidity.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on the type and amount of peppers you use.

For milder flavor, use fewer serrano or jalapeño peppers.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What should I serve with Carne Con Papas?

It pairs well with warm tortillas, rice, or a fresh salad.

How can I thicken the salsa verde?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the pot during the simmering process.

Is it possible to freeze this dish?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container.

Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.

What if I want a milder flavor?

Reduce the number of peppers or remove the seeds from the peppers before blending.

How long does it take to cook?

The total cooking time is about 1 hour, including simmering and adding the potatoes.

Adjust based on your stovetop’s heat settings.