Name: Mexican Beef Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion; 1 lb beef stew meat; 1½ tsp garlic; ½ lime; 1 jalapeno pepper; 3 Green Onions; ¼ cup fresh cilantro; 1 tsp dried oregano; 7 oz green salsa

Dive into the rich and vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with this hearty beef stew. Infused with zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and a kick from jalapeno pepper, this dish brings warmth and excitement to your table. Perfect for a cozy dinner night.

Photos of Mexican Beef Stew Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe may not be staples in your pantry. For instance, green salsa adds a distinct tangy flavor, and jalapeno pepper provides a spicy kick. Be sure to grab fresh cilantro and lime to ensure the authentic taste of this Mexican stew.

Ingredients for Mexican Beef Stew Recipe

Olive oil: Provides a base for sautéing and adds a subtle richness to the stew.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the stew.

Beef stew meat: The main protein of the dish, offering a hearty texture.

Garlic: Enhances the flavor with its aromatic and savory profile.

Lime: Adds a zesty, tangy note to the stew.

Jalapeno pepper: Brings heat and a fresh, spicy flavor.

Green onions: Contributes a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Cilantro: Adds fresh, citrusy undertones.

Dried oregano: Introduces an earthy, slightly bitter taste.

Green salsa: Provides a tangy, spicy base to the stew.

One reader, Kanya Newkirk says:

This Mexican beef stew recipe is fantastic! The flavors are rich and vibrant, with just the right amount of spice. The beef is tender and the cilantro adds a fresh touch. Perfect for a cozy dinner. Highly recommend!

Kanya Newkirk

Key Techniques for Preparing Mexican Beef Stew

How to heat olive oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. How to cook onions: Add the onion to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until it becomes translucent. How to brown meat: Stir in the beef and garlic, cooking and stirring frequently until the meat is evenly browned. How to prepare cilantro mixture: Stir together the lime juice, jalapeno, cilantro, and green onion. How to combine ingredients: When the meat is browned, stir in the cilantro mixture and oregano. How to cook with salsa: Pour in the salsa, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is cooked through.

How To Make Mexican Beef Stew

Easily whip up this beef stew in under an hour! It’s loaded with tender beef, jalapeno, and green salsa for a comforting dish bursting with Mexican flavors.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspolive oil
1onion,diced
1lbbeef stew meat,cubed
1½tspgarlic,minced
½lime,juiced
1jalapeno pepper,seeded, chopped
3green onions,chopped
¼cupfresh cilantro,chopped, or to taste
1tspdried oregano
7ozgreen salsa,(1 can)

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the onion to the skillet, and cook for a few minutes, then stir in the beef, and garlic. Cook, stirring frequently until meat is evenly browned.
Stir together the lime juice, jalapeno, cilantro and green onion. When the meat is browned, stir in the cilantro mixture and oregano.
Pour in the salsa, cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is cooked through.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 213.72kcal
Fat: 9.02g
Saturated Fat: 2.76g
Trans Fat: 0.28g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.34g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.79g
Carbohydrates: 8.88g
Fiber: 2.21g
Sugar: 3.86g
Protein: 26.05g
Cholesterol: 71.44mg
Sodium: 443.44mg
Calcium: 54.69mg
Potassium: 670.87mg
Iron: 3.01mg
Vitamin A: 25.44µg
Vitamin C: 12.56mg

Helpful Technique for Enhancing Mexican Beef Stew Flavor

To enhance the flavor of the beef stew, consider marinating the beef stew meat in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and jalapeno pepper for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will allow the meat to absorb the tangy and spicy notes, making the final dish even more flavorful.

Time-Saving Tips for Mexican Beef Stew Recipe

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the onion, jalapeno pepper, and green onions in advance. This will streamline your cooking process.

Use pre-cut beef: Purchase beef stew meat that is already cut into pieces to save time on preparation.

Ready-made garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic to avoid the hassle of peeling and chopping.

Quick lime juice: Use bottled lime juice instead of squeezing fresh limes.

Pre-made salsa: Select a high-quality green salsa from the store to cut down on preparation time.

Substitute Ingredients For Mexican Beef Stew Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a similar smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, which can complement the stew well.
beef stew meat - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder is similarly tough and benefits from slow cooking, making it a good substitute for beef stew meat.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor profile, though it is less pungent than fresh garlic.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon can provide a similar acidic and citrusy flavor, though it is slightly more tart than lime.
jalapeno pepper - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level and flavor, making them a good alternative to jalapenos.
green onions - Substitute with leeks: Leeks have a mild onion flavor and can be used as a substitute, though they are slightly more fibrous.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley has a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can mimic the brightness of cilantro, though it lacks the citrusy notes.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Thyme has a similar earthy and slightly minty flavor, making it a good substitute for oregano.
green salsa - Substitute with tomatillo sauce: Tomatillo sauce has a similar tangy and slightly spicy flavor, making it a good alternative to green salsa.

Presentation Ideas for Mexican Beef Stew

Serve in a shallow, wide bowl: Use a shallow, wide bowl to allow the vibrant colors of the green salsa, cilantro, and jalapeno pepper to stand out. This also helps in spreading out the beef stew meat for a more visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh cilantro on top of the stew just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma.
Add a lime wedge on the side: Place a wedge of lime on the side of the bowl. This allows diners to add a fresh squeeze of lime juice to their taste, adding a zesty freshness to the dish.
Use a contrasting plate: Serve the bowl on a dark-colored plate to make the vibrant colors of the stew pop. This contrast will make the dish more visually striking.
Drizzle with olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the stew. This adds a glossy finish and a touch of richness to the presentation.
Sprinkle with finely chopped green onions: Finely chop the green onions and sprinkle them over the stew. This adds a fresh crunch and a burst of color.
Serve with a side of warm tortillas: Place a small stack of warm tortillas on the side. This not only complements the stew but also adds an authentic touch to the presentation.
Use a decorative napkin: Place a brightly colored or patterned napkin under the bowl to add an extra layer of sophistication and visual interest.
Add a touch of heat: For those who enjoy a bit more spice, place a few thin slices of jalapeno pepper on top of the stew. This adds a visual cue for the heat level and an extra kick.
Finish with a light dusting of dried oregano: Lightly dust the top of the stew with a pinch of dried oregano. This adds a subtle aromatic note and a touch of elegance to the final presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Mexican Beef Stew

Large skillet: Used to heat the olive oil and cook the onions, beef, and garlic. It provides a wide surface area for even browning.
Cutting board: Essential for chopping the onion, jalapeno pepper, green onions, and cilantro.
Chef's knife: Used for chopping and dicing the vegetables and herbs.
Measuring spoons: Needed to measure out the olive oil, garlic, and dried oregano accurately.
Juicer: Handy for extracting juice from the lime.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the lime juice, jalapeno, cilantro, and green onions before adding them to the skillet.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients in the skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Lid for skillet: Necessary to cover the skillet while the stew simmers, helping to cook the meat through and blend the flavors.
Serving spoon: Used to serve the stew once it is cooked and ready to enjoy.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Mexican Beef Stew

Allow the Mexican beef stew to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. This will prevent condensation from forming and affecting the quality of the stew.
If you plan to consume the leftover stew within 3-4 days, you can store it in the refrigerator. Make sure to place the container or bag in the coldest part of the fridge, typically the back.
For longer storage, freezing is the best option. Transfer the cooled stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing. Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.
If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. You can also portion the stew into smaller quantities for convenient thawing and reheating.
When properly stored, the Mexican beef stew can last up to 3 months in the freezer. However, for optimal flavor and texture, it is recommended to consume it within 1-2 months.
To reheat the frozen stew, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, stirring the stew every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell, mold growth, or a significant change in texture or color, discard the stew immediately to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

How To Reheat Leftover Mexican Beef Stew

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover mexican beef stew to a saucepan or pot. Heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure even reheating without overcooking the beef or making it tough.
Microwave method: place the desired portion of leftover stew in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the stew is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the beef to become tough and rubbery.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover stew to an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the stew is heated through. Stir the stew halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. This method is ideal for reheating larger portions of stew.
Slow cooker method: if you have a slow cooker or crockpot, you can use it to reheat your leftover mexican beef stew. Transfer the stew to the slow cooker and set it on low heat. Cover and let the stew reheat for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is perfect for those who want to reheat their stew without much hands-on attention.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the stew well to distribute the heat evenly and prevent any cold spots. If the stew seems too thick after reheating, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out and restore its original consistency. Taste the reheated stew and adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors may have mellowed during storage.

Interesting Trivia About Mexican Beef Stew

A unique aspect of this Mexican beef stew recipe is the use of green salsa as a base, which adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor that distinguishes it from traditional beef stews.

Is Making Mexican Beef Stew Cost-Effective?

This Mexican beef stew recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using basic ingredients like onion, beef stew meat, garlic, lime, jalapeno pepper, green onions, cilantro, oregano, and green salsa, the total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15-$20 USD. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is a solid 8 out of 10.

Is Mexican Beef Stew Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Mexican beef stew recipe is a relatively healthy dish, as it incorporates lean beef, fresh vegetables, and herbs. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the onion, garlic, jalapeno, and cilantro offer various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The lime juice adds a boost of vitamin C and helps tenderize the meat. Additionally, the green salsa likely contains tomatillos, which are low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to enhance its nutritional value:

Use a leaner cut of beef, such as sirloin or round, to reduce the overall fat content
Increase the amount of vegetables by adding diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to boost the fiber and nutrient content
Opt for a low-sodium green salsa to help control the dish's salt content
Serve the stew with a side of brown rice or quinoa to add complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
Garnish with a dollop of plain, low-fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to increase the protein content and reduce the saturated fat

Editor's Opinion on This Mexican Beef Stew Recipe

This Mexican beef stew recipe is straightforward and flavorful, leveraging fresh ingredients like lime, jalapeno, and cilantro to enhance the dish. The use of green salsa adds a tangy depth, while the oregano provides a subtle herbaceous note. However, consider simmering the stew longer than 10 minutes to tenderize the beef further and meld the flavors more deeply. Adding a bit of beef broth could also enrich the stew's consistency. Overall, it's a vibrant and aromatic dish that promises a satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Mexican Beef Stew Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mexican Rice: Elevate your Mexican Beef Stew with a side of Mexican Rice. The fluffy, seasoned rice will soak up the rich flavors of the stew, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The subtle hints of tomato, garlic, and cilantro in the rice will complement the stew perfectly.

Elote: Add a touch of Mexican street food magic with Elote. This grilled corn on the cob, slathered in mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder, will bring a burst of flavor and a delightful crunch to your meal. The creamy and spicy notes will contrast beautifully with the hearty stew.

Guacamole: Brighten up your plate with a side of Guacamole. The creamy avocado dip, mixed with lime juice, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeno, will add a refreshing and zesty element to your meal. It's the perfect way to balance the rich and savory flavors of the stew.

Tortilla Chips: Crunchy Tortilla Chips are a must-have companion for your Mexican Beef Stew. These crispy corn chips can be used to scoop up the stew or simply enjoyed on the side. Their satisfying crunch and salty taste will add an extra layer of enjoyment to your dining experience.

Churros: Finish your meal on a sweet note with Churros. These golden, crispy dough sticks, dusted with cinnamon and sugar, will provide a delightful contrast to the savory stew. Dip them in a rich chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat that will leave you craving more.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy Mexican Beef Stew

Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup: Dive into a bowl of spicy chicken tortilla soup that will warm your soul. This soup is packed with tender chicken, corn, black beans, and a zesty tomato broth. Top it off with crispy tortilla strips and a squeeze of lime for an extra kick.

Pork Carnitas Tacos: Experience the rich flavors of pork carnitas tacos. Slow-cooked pork is shredded and served in warm corn tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro, onions, and a splash of lime juice. Perfect for a taco night with friends and family.

Chili Con Carne: Savor the hearty and spicy goodness of chili con carne. This stew features ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of spices simmered to perfection. Serve it with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Chicken Enchiladas Verde: Indulge in the creamy and tangy flavors of chicken enchiladas verde. Shredded chicken is rolled in corn tortillas and smothered in a green salsa and cheese sauce. Bake until bubbly and golden, then garnish with fresh cilantro and sour cream.

Beef Barbacoa: Treat yourself to the tender and flavorful beef barbacoa. Slow-cooked beef is marinated in a blend of spices and chipotle peppers, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Serve it with warm tortillas, avocado, and pickled onions for a truly authentic taste.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Mexican Beef Stew

Appetizers:

Stuffed Jalapenos: Stuffed Jalapenos are a fantastic way to kick off your meal. Imagine fresh jalapeno peppers filled with a creamy cheese mixture and seasoned with spices. These little bites are then baked until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The combination of the spicy jalapeno and the rich, savory filling creates a perfect balance of flavors. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added touch of freshness.

Mini Tostadas: Mini Tostadas are a delightful and colorful appetizer that will surely impress your guests. Start with crispy tostada shells as the base. Top them with a layer of refried beans, followed by a generous portion of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and avocado slices. Drizzle with a tangy sour cream and lime juice mixture, and finish with a sprinkle of cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. These bite-sized treats are bursting with flavor and texture, making them a perfect start to any meal.

Desserts:

Churros: Imagine the delight of crispy churros paired with a luscious chocolate dipping sauce. The golden, cinnamon-sugar-coated exterior gives way to a soft, airy interior, making each bite a perfect contrast of textures. Serve them warm, and watch as your guests dip them into the rich, velvety chocolate sauce, savoring the blend of sweet and slightly bitter flavors. This dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, with its rustic, golden-brown appearance and the glossy sheen of the chocolate sauce.

Tres Leches Cake: Transport your guests to a world of creamy indulgence with a tres leches cake. This traditional Mexican dessert features a light, airy sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three kinds of milk: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. The result is a moist, rich cake that melts in your mouth. Top it with a generous layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an added touch of elegance. Each slice reveals the cake's delicate texture and the luxurious, milky sweetness that makes it so irresistible.

Why trust this Mexican Beef Stew Recipe:

This Mexican beef stew recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking authentic flavors. The combination of beef stew meat, jalapeno pepper, and green salsa creates a rich and savory dish. The use of fresh ingredients like cilantro and lime ensures a vibrant taste. Easy to follow and quick to prepare, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust in the simplicity and quality of these ingredients to deliver a delicious and satisfying meal.

Want to share your own Mexican Beef Stew recipe or discuss tips and techniques for making this hearty dish? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum section!

FAQ:

How spicy is this Mexican beef stew?

The spiciness of the stew depends on the jalapeno pepper and the green salsa you use. If you want it milder, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeno or use a milder salsa.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the beef stew meat with chicken, pork, or even a meat substitute if you're looking for a vegetarian option.

How long does it take to make this stew?

From start to finish, it should take about 30-40 minutes. The prep time is minimal, and the cooking time is around 10 minutes once everything is in the skillet.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

What can I serve with this Mexican beef stew?

This stew pairs well with rice, tortillas, or even a side of beans. You can also top it with some extra fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.