Green Chili Stew is a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out — perfect for breezy autumn evenings or when you crave a hearty meal. With ground meat, zesty green chilies, and a medley of spices simmered to perfection, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors that come together effortlessly. I’ve made this stew countless times for my family, and it never fails to please, especially when topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Why Cook This Delightful Stew at Home?
This Green Chili Stew isn’t just another recipe in your collection—it’s a satisfying meal that’s quick to whip up and budget-friendly. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, it captures the spirit of comfort food without demanding your entire afternoon. What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. You can throw it together in a slow cooker and let it work its magic while you tackle your to-do list or kick back and enjoy a little downtime.
“I made this stew for a potluck, and it disappeared within minutes! Everyone raved about the flavors. It’s now my go-to recipe for gatherings!”
The Cooking Process Explained
Prepare yourself for a simple yet rewarding cooking experience! This dish combines the comforting flavors of meat, beans, and chilies with minimal hands-on time. Here’s a quick overview of how this recipe comes together:
- Start by browning the meat with onion and garlic.
- Transfer this mixture to a crock pot.
- Add in the chilies, tomatoes, beans, spices, and broth.
- Let it simmer low and slow or cook it on high for a quicker fix.
- Serve and enjoy the rave reviews!
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What You’ll Need
To make this hearty Green Chili Stew, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans diced green chilies (4 oz each)
- 2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 oz each)
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
You can easily swap ground turkey for beef if you prefer a leaner option or adjust the spices to your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir until meat is fully cooked through. Be sure to drain the excess fat for a healthier stew.
- Transfer the cooked meat mixture into a crock pot.
- Add the diced green chilies, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, broth, and the optional chopped bell pepper to the crock pot.
- Stir everything together to combine all the delicious flavors.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours—whichever suits your schedule best.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or freshly chopped cilantro!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Green Chili Stew is a meal in itself, but you can elevate it with some creative sides. Consider serving it with:
- Warm cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping.
- A side salad with fresh greens.
- Mexican rice for a heartier plate.
Feel free to garnish your stew with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or cheese for an extra pop of flavor!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Green Chili Stew is a blessing! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave.
For longer storage, this stew freezes beautifully. Cool it completely before transferring it into a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Pro Chef Tips
- To deepen the flavors, consider searing the meat a bit longer before adding it to the crock pot.
- Don’t skip the spices! They’re essential for a robust flavor.
- You can add some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley during the last few minutes of cooking for a fresh touch.
Creative Twists
Green Chili Stew is versatile! Here are a few variations to try:
- Swap in black beans or pinto beans for a different bean experience.
- Add extra veggies, such as zucchini or carrots, for a heartier stew.
- Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for Green Chili Stew?
Typically, you’ll need about 15 minutes to prep your ingredients before cooking.
Can I use fresh green chilies instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh chilies will give the stew a bolder flavor. Just adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
How can I make this stew vegetarian?
Substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth as a base. You’ll keep the rich texture while making it plant-based!
Now that you’re equipped with this tasty Green Chili Stew recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy the simplicity and delight of making a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings warmth to your dining table.
