New Mexico Green Chile Stew

Ingredients:

1 lb ground meat

2 tbls oil

1 tbls butter

1 large white onion chopped

2 large cloves garlic minced

2 tbls blue cornmeal

2-3 cups chopped roasted green chile

5 cups chicken stock

1 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

4 small potatoes, diced

1/2 large tomato, chopped

Instructions:

Brown meat in oil and butter.

Add onions and garlic, cook for 2-3 minutes.

Sprinkle all with blue cornmeal, stir, then add green chile, garlic powder, salt and pepper, stock, potatoes and tomato.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered until potatoes are cooked and flavors have blended.

Notes:

Simple Ingredients: This stew uses straightforward ingredients commonly found in many kitchens, making it accessible and easy to prepare.

Rich Flavor: The combination of ground meat, onions, garlic, green chile, and spices like garlic powder creates a flavorful and comforting stew.

Textural Contrast: The addition of blue cornmeal not only adds flavor but also thickens the stew, providing a pleasant texture.

Customizable Heat: Depending on personal preference, the amount of green chile can be adjusted to control the level of spiciness in the stew.

Nutrient-Rich: This stew contains a variety of vegetables, including onions, garlic, potatoes, and tomatoes, providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Protein Source: The ground meat serves as a protein source, contributing to the satiety and heartiness of the stew.

Versatile: While the recipe specifies green chile, other types of chile or peppers can be used based on availability and taste preferences.

Make-Ahead Friendly: This stew can be made ahead of time and reheated, allowing the flavors to develop even further.

Comfort Food: With its warm and hearty nature, this stew is perfect for chilly evenings or as a comforting meal anytime.

Cultural Influence: The use of green chile and blue cornmeal in this recipe reflects the Southwestern culinary influence, adding a unique regional flair to the dish.

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 300 | Fat: 15 grams | Carbohydrates: 20 grams | Protein: 15 grams | Fiber: 3 grams

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef, pork, turkey, or even vegetarian meat alternatives according to your preference.

How spicy is this stew with the green chile?

The level of spiciness can vary depending on the type and amount of green chile used.

Adjust the quantity of green chile to suit your spice tolerance.

Can I make this stew vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the ground meat and use additional vegetables or meat substitutes to create a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does it take to cook the potatoes until they’re tender?

Typically, the potatoes will take around 15-20 minutes to cook once added to the simmering stew.

You can check for doneness by piercing them with a fork.

Can I use pre-made or canned green chile instead of roasting my own?

Yes, you can use pre-made or canned green chile if you’re short on time or if fresh green chile is not available.

Just be sure to drain canned chile before adding it to the stew.

Can I freeze this stew for later?

Yes, this stew freezes well.

Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

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

Can I adjust the thickness of the stew?

Yes, if you prefer a thicker stew, you can increase the amount of blue cornmeal or simmer the stew uncovered for a longer period to allow for evaporation and thickening.

What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs well with warm cornbread, crusty bread, or tortillas.

You can also top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use other varieties of potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes if preferred.

Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of potato used.

Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, this stew can be made gluten-free by ensuring that the chicken stock and other ingredients are gluten-free, and by using certified gluten-free blue cornmeal.