Mexican Chile Colorado: A Rich and Flavorful Classic
Mexican Chile Colorado is a beloved dish known for its rich, deep red sauce made from dried chiles and tender beef simmered to perfection. This traditional recipe brings warmth and comfort to the table, making it a favorite among families and food lovers alike. Whether served with warm tortillas, rice, or beans, Chile Colorado is a satisfying meal packed with bold flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 4 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 1 dried pasilla chile, stem and seeds removed
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
1. Prepare the Chiles:
In a skillet over medium heat, lightly toast the guajillo, ancho, and pasilla chiles until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Be careful not to burn them. Transfer the toasted chiles to a bowl, cover with hot water, and let them soak for 15-20 minutes until softened.
2. Make the Chile Sauce:
Drain the soaked chiles and transfer them to a blender. Add the garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, and 1 cup of beef broth. Blend until smooth, then strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids.
3. Brown the Beef:
Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, working in batches if necessary. Remove the beef and set aside.
4. Cook the Sauce:
In the same pot, add the chile sauce and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly and darkens in color.
5. Simmer the Stew:
Add the seared beef back to the pot along with the remaining beef broth. Stir to combine, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chile Colorado with warm tortillas, rice, or beans. Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and diced onions if desired.
A Taste of Tradition
This rich and flavorful stew is a classic comfort food in Mexican cuisine. With its deep, smoky chile sauce and melt-in-your-mouth beef, Chile Colorado is a dish that celebrates the heart and soul of traditional cooking. Enjoy this homemade recipe with loved ones and savor every bite of this delicious, time-honored meal!