This recipe for Beef Jalapeno Stew is the perfect hearty meal for those chilly winter evenings. The robust flavor is created from a combination of ground beef, onions, and tomatoes, which are enhanced by the spicy kick of jalapenos. The addition of pinto beans adds a layer of depth and richness to the stew, while the minestrone soup base brings all the flavors together. Easy to cook and delicious to eat, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
The ingredients in Beef Jalapeno Stew are commonly found at your local supermarket, with the exception of pinto beans with jalapeno peppers. They are canned beans that have been pre-seasoned with jalapeno peppers for an added kick. If you're unable to find them, you can substitute with regular pinto beans and add diced jalapeno peppers. Likewise, if your supermarket doesn't stock cans of tomatoes and green chiles, simply purchase them separately and mix them together.
Key Ingredients for Beef Jalapeno Stew
Ground beef: This forms the base of the stew, providing a hearty, meaty flavor.
Onions: They add a sweet, caramel-like flavor when cooked, which balances out the spiciness of the jalapenos.
Minestrone soup: This soup base has a medley of vegetables and spices, adding depth to the stew’s flavor.
Pinto beans with jalapeno peppers: These beans add a spicy kick and a creamy texture to the stew.
Tomatoes and green chiles: They provide a tangy flavor and a bit of heat.
Garlic powder: It enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Seasoned salt: This is a blend of table salt, herbs, spices, and other flavorings. It adds a burst of flavor to the stew.
Ground black pepper: It adds a mild heat and a layer of complexity to the stew.
One reader, Judith Weimer says:
This beef jalapeno stew recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so rich and the jalapeno adds the perfect kick. It's easy to make and the whole family loves it. It's become a regular in our dinner rotation. Highly recommend trying it out!
Cooking Techniques for Beef Jalapeno Stew Recipe
How to brown ground beef and onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onions until the beef is evenly brown and the onions are tender. Drain the grease.
How to simmer the stew: After mixing the ingredients in a pot, bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
How To Make Beef Jalapeno Stew
Tender ground beef mixed with pinto beans with jalapeno and tomatoes with green chiles makes up this hearty and filling stew recipe!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2lbsground beef
- 1medium onions,chopped
- 10ozminestrone soup,(2 cans)
- 14.5ozpinto beans with jalapeno peppers,(1 can)
- 10oztomatoes and green chiles,(2 cans), diced
- garlic powder,to taste
- seasoned salt,to taste
- ground black pepper,to taste
Instructions
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onions until beef is evenly brown and onions are tender. Drain the grease.
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In a pot, mix the beef and onions, minestrone soup, pinto beans with jalapeno peppers, and diced tomatoes and green chiles. Season with garlic powder, seasoned salt, and pepper.
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Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 1 hour.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 233.27kcal
- Fat: 15.65g
- Saturated Fat: 5.93g
- Trans Fat: 0.89g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.80g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.51g
- Carbohydrates: 8.64g
- Fiber: 2.46g
- Sugar: 4.14g
- Protein: 14.64g
- Cholesterol: 54.15mg
- Sodium: 442.92mg
- Calcium: 35.07mg
- Potassium: 506.65mg
- Iron: 2.15mg
- Vitamin A: 66.56µg
- Vitamin C: 102.30mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Beef Jalapeno Stew
When browning the ground beef, make sure to break it up into small, even pieces. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and integrates well with the other ingredients in the stew. Also, don't rush the browning process. Taking the time to properly brown the beef will add a depth of flavor to your stew. Remember, the fond, or browned bits at the bottom of the pan, is packed with flavor. When you add the soup and other ingredients, scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate this flavor into your stew.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Stew Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a slow cooker: Consider using a slow cooker to let the stew cook slowly while you attend to other tasks.
Buy pre-chopped ingredients: Opt for pre-chopped onions and pre-diced tomatoes to cut down on prep time.
One-pot meal: Look for recipes that require minimal pots and pans to reduce clean-up time.
Multi-task: While the stew is simmering, use that time to prepare side dishes or set the table.
Substitute Ingredients For Beef Jalapeno Stew Recipe
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to ground beef and can be used as a healthier option in the stew. It also has a similar texture and can absorb the flavors of the stew well.
minestrone soup - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for minestrone soup to maintain the savory flavor and provide a vegetarian option for the stew.
pinto beans with jalapeno peppers - Substitute with black beans with diced green chilies: Black beans with diced green chilies can add a similar texture and a hint of spiciness to the stew, replacing the pinto beans with jalapeno peppers.
tomatoes and green chiles - Substitute with diced tomatoes with added jalapenos: Diced tomatoes with added jalapenos can provide a similar flavor profile and spiciness to the stew, replacing the tomatoes and green chiles.
garlic powder - Substitute with minced garlic: Minced garlic can be used as a substitute for garlic powder to provide a more intense and fresh garlic flavor to the stew.
seasoned salt - Substitute with kosher salt and a blend of dried herbs (such as oregano, thyme, and paprika): Creating a blend of kosher salt and dried herbs can replace the seasoned salt, providing a similar depth of flavor to the stew.
ground black pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick to the stew, replacing the ground black pepper while also providing a different dimension of heat.
Presentation Ideas for Beef Jalapeno Stew
Elevate the plating: When presenting the beef jalapeno stew, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the stew. Ensure that the beef, beans, and vegetables are evenly distributed for an enticing presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. The vibrant green hues will provide a beautiful contrast to the rich, hearty stew.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the presentation, such as a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or tortilla strips on top of the stew. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful textural contrast to each bite.
Artful drizzle: Before serving, drizzle a swirl of sour cream or a zesty lime crema over the stew. The elegant drizzle not only adds a touch of sophistication but also imparts a creamy, tangy flavor to the dish.
Select the right serveware: Opt for elegant, high-quality serveware that complements the rustic charm of the stew. Consider using artisanal ceramic bowls or earthy-toned stoneware to enhance the overall presentation.
Balance and symmetry: Pay attention to the placement of elements on the plate, aiming for a balanced and symmetrical presentation. This attention to detail will create a visually appealing and professional-looking dish.
Create a focal point: Arrange the stew in a way that creates a focal point on the plate. Whether it's a garnish, a drizzle, or a specific ingredient, drawing attention to a central element will make the dish visually captivating.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stew
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
- Pot: A deep, round container with handles, used for cooking stews, soups, and boiling ingredients.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, blunt blade, used for lifting and flipping ingredients while cooking.
- Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A durable board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Can opener: A tool used for opening canned ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
- Stove: A cooking appliance used for heating and cooking food.
- Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for mixing and stirring ingredients while cooking.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Beef Jalapeno Stew Recipe
Allow the beef jalapeno stew to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and minimize the risk of bacterial growth.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld and develop over time, making the stew even more delicious.
If you plan to freeze the stew, consider dividing it into smaller portions for easier thawing and reheating. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents to keep track of your frozen meals. The beef jalapeno stew can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen stew, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If you need to thaw it more quickly, place the container in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until the stew is fully thawed.
Reheat the thawed stew in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You may need to add a little water or broth to adjust the consistency if the stew has thickened during storage.
For best results, consume the reheated stew within 2 days and do not refreeze previously frozen portions to maintain food safety and quality.
How To Reheat Leftover Beef Jalapeno Stew
Reheat the beef jalapeno stew in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method ensures even heating and allows the flavors to meld together once again.
For a quicker reheating option, transfer the leftover stew to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the stew is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the beef to become tough.
If you have a small amount of leftover stew, consider reheating it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to help loosen the consistency and prevent the stew from drying out. Stir frequently until the stew is warmed through.
For a delightful twist, transform your leftover beef jalapeno stew into a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. Simply reheat the stew, then spoon it into your favorite tortilla and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
Create a comforting beef jalapeno stew pot pie by placing the leftover stew in a baking dish, topping it with a layer of mashed potatoes or pie crust, and baking in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the stew is bubbly.
Interesting Trivia About Beef Jalapeno Stew
Minestrone soup is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes, adding a rich and hearty flavor to the dish.
Is Making Beef Jalapeno Stew at Home Cost-Effective?
This beef jalapeno stew recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as ground beef, onions, canned minestrone soup, pinto beans with jalapeno peppers, and canned tomatoes and green chiles, are affordable and readily available. The dish is hearty and filling, making it a great option for feeding a family. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability, simplicity, and delicious flavors.
Is Beef Jalapeno Stew Healthy or Unhealthy?
The beef jalapeno stew recipe, while hearty and flavorful, may not be the healthiest option due to a few key ingredients and preparation methods:
- Ground beef is high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess
- The recipe calls for draining the grease from the cooked beef and onions, but some fat will still remain in the dish
- Canned soups and beans often contain high levels of sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems
- The recipe does not include any additional vegetables beyond the onions and those found in the canned ingredients
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Use lean ground beef (90% or higher) or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lower fat option
- Drain the cooked meat thoroughly and rinse with hot water to remove excess fat
- Choose low-sodium or no-salt-added versions of the canned ingredients to reduce the overall sodium content
- Add more fresh vegetables to the stew, such as diced carrots, celery, bell peppers, or zucchini, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for added health benefits and flavor
- Serve the stew with a side of brown rice or whole grain bread to incorporate more complex carbohydrates and fiber into the meal
Editor's Opinion on This Beef Jalapeno Stew
This beef jalapeno stew recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of ground beef, onions, and jalapeno-infused pinto beans creates a rich and hearty base, while the minestrone soup and diced tomatoes with green chiles add depth and complexity. The seasoning of garlic powder, seasoned salt, and black pepper enhances the overall taste profile. The simmering process allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a comforting and satisfying stew. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests, and it's sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys a bit of spice in their meal.
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Why trust this Beef Jalapeno Stew Recipe:
This hearty beef jalapeno stew recipe offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The combination of savory ground beef, zesty jalapeno peppers, and aromatic onions creates a rich and satisfying dish. The addition of minestrone soup, pinto beans with jalapeno peppers, and tomatoes and green chiles infuses the stew with depth and complexity. Seasoned with garlic powder, seasoned salt, and ground black pepper, this stew promises to tantalize the taste buds and warm the soul. Trust in this recipe to deliver a delightful dining experience.
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