Mexican beef stew garnished with fresh cilantro in a rustic bowl.

Mexican beef stew​

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Introduction: A Comforting Classic

Mexican Beef Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of aromatic spices simmered in a rich, savory broth. This comforting meal is perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or whenever you crave a taste of traditional Mexican cuisine. For more hearty soup recipes, check out our  Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Mexican dishes or looking to explore new flavors, this recipe is a fantastic way to bring bold tastes and warm hospitality to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Beef Stew

1. Rich and Flavorful: The combination of tender beef, earthy spices, and fresh vegetables creates a well-balanced and deeply satisfying flavor profile.
2. Hearty and Filling: Loaded with protein and fiber-rich vegetables, this stew is a complete meal in one bowl.
3. Easy to Make: While the stew does require a little simmering time, it’s a straightforward recipe with minimal prep work.
4. Adaptable: Customize it to your taste with different vegetables or spice levels, making it perfect for everyone in the family.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully, making it an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time. For more meal-prep ideas, don’t miss our Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie.

Key Ingredients for Mexican Beef Stew

Here’s what makes this dish shine and how you can make substitutions to suit your preferences:

1. Beef Chuck or Stew Meat
  • Purpose: The beef provides the protein and richness of the dish. Chuck or stew meat is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful when simmered.
  • Substitution: You can use chicken thighs for a leaner option or plant-based beef for a vegetarian twist.
2. Tomatoes
  • Purpose: Fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes form the base of the stew, adding a natural sweetness and acidity.
  • Substitution: Tomato paste or puree can be used for a richer, more concentrated flavor.
3. Potatoes and Carrots
  • Purpose: These vegetables add heartiness and texture, soaking up the flavors of the broth.
  • Substitution: Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or turnips work well if you’re looking for a variation.
4. Onion and Garlic
  • Purpose: These aromatic ingredients form the flavor foundation of the stew.
  • Substitution: Shallots can replace onions, and garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
5. Chiles (Chipotle or Ancho)
  • Purpose: Chiles add a smoky, slightly spicy depth to the dish.
  • Substitution: Paprika or a splash of hot sauce can be used for a milder flavor.
6. Beef Broth or Stock
  • Purpose: The broth is the liquid base that carries all the flavors.
  • Substitution: Vegetable stock or chicken stock can be used for a lighter stew.
7. Spices (Cumin, Oregano, Bay Leaf)
  • Purpose: These spices infuse the stew with authentic Mexican flavors.
  • Substitution: Use a taco seasoning mix if you’re short on individual spices.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious Mexican Beef Stew:

  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth or stock
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 1 chipotle chili in adobo sauce, minced (optional for spice)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Lime wedges for serving

Mexican beef stew in a white Dutch oven with fresh cilantro garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for a flawless Mexican Beef Stew:

Sear the Beef
  1. Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial because dry beef will sear better and form a flavorful crust, while damp beef will steam in the pan.
  2. Season Generously: Sprinkle the beef with salt and pepper just before cooking to enhance its natural flavors.
  3. Heat the Oil Properly: Use medium-high heat and wait for the oil to shimmer before adding the beef. This ensures the beef doesn’t stick to the pan and browns evenly.
  4. Work in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook the beef in small batches, leaving space between each piece, so it sears instead of steaming.
  5. Brown All Sides: Let each side of the beef develop a deep golden crust. Don’t rush this step—it builds the base flavor of the stew.
  6. Set Aside: Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set it aside. Keep the drippings in the pot to enhance the stew’s flavor in the next step.
Sauté the Aromatics
  1. Adjust the Heat: Lower the heat to medium after removing the beef. This prevents the onions and garlic from burning.
  2. Deglaze While Cooking: As the onions release moisture, they’ll naturally lift the flavorful brown bits (called “fond”) stuck to the bottom of the pot. This fond is packed with flavor!
  3. Cook Until Translucent: Stir the onions frequently, cooking them for 5–7 minutes until they become soft and slightly golden.
  4. Add the Garlic Last: Garlic cooks quickly, so add it after the onions have softened, stirring for just 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
Build the Base
  1. Return the Beef: Add the seared beef back to the pot, ensuring any juices collected on the plate are included for maximum flavor.
  2. Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, minced chipotle chili (if using), cumin, oregano, and bay leaf. These ingredients form the flavor backbone of the stew.
  3. Mix Well: Stir everything together to coat the beef and onions evenly with the tomatoes and spices.
  4. Add Broth Gradually: Pour in the beef broth a little at a time, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any remaining browned bits. This step deepens the stew’s flavor.
Simmer the Stew
  1. Bring to a Gentle Boil: Increase the heat to medium-high until the stew starts to bubble, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Rapid boiling can make the meat tough, so aim for a gentle simmer.
  2. Cover and Cook: Cover the pot with a lid, leaving a slight gap for steam to escape. This keeps the stew moist while allowing it to thicken slightly.
  3. Time Check: Simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the beef begins to tenderize and absorb the flavors of the broth and spices.
Add Vegetables
  1. Prepare the Veggies: While the beef simmers, peel and chop the potatoes and carrots into evenly sized pieces. Uniform sizes ensure they cook at the same rate.
  2. Add to the Pot: Stir the vegetables into the pot, ensuring they’re submerged in the broth to cook evenly.
  3. Simmer Again: Continue cooking for another 30 minutes or until the vegetables are fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom of the pot.
Final Seasoning
  1. Taste Test: Once the beef and vegetables are tender, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of cumin if needed.
  2. Remove the Bay Leaf: Discard the bay leaf before serving—it has done its job of flavoring the stew.
  3. Thicken the Broth (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a few potato chunks into the broth with the back of a spoon or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Serve and Enjoy
  1. Ladle and Garnish: Serve the stew hot in bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro for brightness and a squeeze of lime for acidity.
  2. Add Toppings: Customize with avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
  3. Pair with Sides: Complement the dish with warm tortillas, crusty bread, or a side of Mexican rice.

Variations of Mexican Beef Stew

  1. Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with chunks of tofu or hearty mushrooms like portobello. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
  2. Spicy Kick: Add more chipotle chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  3. Chunky Style: Add additional vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans for more texture.
  4. Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
  5. Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side Dishes: Serve with warm corn tortillas, Mexican rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. If you’re looking for a flavorful side dish to pair, consider our Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito.
  • Toppings: Garnish with avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for added texture.
  • Beverages: Pair with refreshing agua fresca, lemonade, or a glass of iced tea.

Tips for the Best Mexican Beef Stew

Choosing the Best Ingredients
  1. Beef Cut: Use a well-marbled cut like beef chuck. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin, which can dry out during long cooking.
  2. Fresh Produce: Opt for fresh, in-season vegetables for the best flavor. Frozen vegetables can be used in a pinch but may alter the texture slightly.
  3. Homemade Broth: If you have time, homemade beef broth elevates the flavor significantly. Store-bought broth works fine but choose low-sodium to control the saltiness.
Cooking Techniques
  1. Proper Searing: Searing the beef locks in flavor and adds depth to the stew. Don’t skip this step!
  2. Layer Flavors: Add ingredients in stages, allowing each to cook fully and release its flavors before adding the next.
  3. Low and Slow Cooking: Cooking the stew at a low simmer for an extended period is key to achieving tender beef and rich flavors.
Adjusting Flavor
  1. Balance Acidity: If the stew tastes too tangy, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
  2. Enhance Smokiness: For a deeper smoky flavor, add a second chipotle chili or a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
  3. Adjust Heat: Control spice levels by increasing or decreasing the amount of chipotle chili.
Presentation and Storage
  1. Serve Hot: Always serve the stew hot for the best texture and flavor. Warm your bowls before serving for an added touch.
  2. Make Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  3. Freeze in Portions: Freeze leftovers in individual portions for a quick, hearty meal later. Defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Troubleshooting
    1. Too Watery: If the stew is too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
    2. Tough Beef: If the beef isn’t tender, it needs more cooking time. Continue simmering until the meat softens.
    3. Overcooked Vegetables: Add vegetables later if you prefer them firmer and less mushy.

Benefits of This Mexican Beef Stew

  • Easy to Prepare: Requires basic kitchen skills and common pantry ingredients.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Great for Gatherings: Perfect for serving a crowd, and everyone loves a warm, hearty stew.
  • Budget-Friendly: Utilizes affordable ingredients and stretches to feed a large group.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal planning.

What is Mexican Stew Called?

Mexican stew is commonly referred to as caldo, guisado, or specific dishes like birria, pozole, or mole de olla, depending on the ingredients and regional variations. These stews are rich, hearty, and flavorful, often incorporating a blend of spices, vegetables, and proteins.

What is Birria Stew Made Of?

Birria stew is a traditional Mexican dish originating from Jalisco, typically made with:

  • Meat: Goat, lamb, or beef are the most common choices.
  • Marinade: A blend of dried chiles such as guajillo, ancho, and pasilla, along with garlic, vinegar, cumin, oregano, and other spices.
  • Broth: The meat is slow-cooked in a flavorful broth created by blending the marinade with water or stock.
  • Additional Ingredients: Onions, bay leaves, cinnamon, and cloves may be added for depth of flavor.

Birria is traditionally served with its broth as a stew or used as a filling for tacos, often accompanied by fresh cilantro, onions, and lime.

What is Mexican-Style Beef Called?

Mexican-style beef is known by various names depending on the preparation, including:

  • Carne Asada: Grilled, marinated beef, often served as a main dish or used in tacos and burritos.
  • Barbacoa: Slow-cooked, shredded beef or lamb, traditionally cooked in an underground pit.
  • Carne Guisada: A beef stew made with a tomato-based sauce and vegetables.
  • Birria de Res: A version of birria made with beef, seasoned with chiles and spices.

Each dish highlights Mexico’s bold and diverse culinary traditions.

What’s the Difference Between Beef Soup and Beef Stew?

The primary difference between beef soup and beef stew lies in their consistency, cooking methods, and ingredients:

  • Consistency:
    • Beef soup has a thinner, broth-based liquid and often includes a higher proportion of liquid to solids.
    • Beef stew has a thicker, more concentrated base and a heartier texture.
  • Ingredients:
    • Beef soup typically includes small, evenly cut vegetables and meat, with a focus on clear broth.
    • Beef stew includes larger chunks of meat and vegetables, and the broth is often thickened with flour, starch, or long cooking times.
  • Cooking Time:
    • Soups cook quickly and retain the fresh flavors of the ingredients.
    • Stews are slow-cooked to deepen flavors and tenderize the meat.

In essence, beef soup is lighter and more liquid-heavy, while beef stew is thicker, richer, and more filling.

Conclusion

Mexican Beef Stew is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying. Its robust flavors and hearty texture make it a staple for any home cook looking to add a touch of Mexico to their dinner table. With its adaptability and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your results with family and friends! If you loved it, let us know in the comments or tag us on social media with your delicious creation. Happy cooking!

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