Introduction
This hearty and flavorful dish is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Packed with protein and vegetables, it provides a warm, satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef, browned and drained
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow onion, chopped
14 ounces whole kernel corn, drained
14 ounces canned diced tomatoes
8 ounces tomato sauce
16 ounces kidney beans, drained
16 ounces pinto beans, drained
1 tablespoon cumin
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups water
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Total Time
55 minutes
Yield
Serves 6-8
This recipe combines wholesome ingredients to create a delicious and filling meal that is easy to prepare. By simply browning the beef and combining all the ingredients in a stockpot, you’ll have a nourishing dish that simmers to perfection. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a complete experience.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large stockpot, add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until fully browned. Make sure to drain any excess grease after browning to keep the dish lean.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Chop 1 green bell pepper and 1 yellow onion into small pieces. Set them aside for later use.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the chopped bell pepper and onion to the stockpot with the browned ground beef. Next, add 14 ounces of drained whole kernel corn, 14 ounces of canned diced tomatoes, and 8 ounces of tomato sauce to the mixture.
Step 4: Add Beans
Stir in 16 ounces of drained kidney beans and 16 ounces of drained pinto beans. Ensure all the beans are well distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of cumin, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 2 teaspoons of paprika, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well to combine all the spices evenly.
Step 6: Add Water
Pour in 3 cups of water. Stir the entire mixture until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 7: Simmer
Set the heat to medium and cover the pot. Let the mixture simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help flavors meld.
Notes
Storage Instructions
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or additional beans and increase the vegetable quantity.
Spice Level Adjustments
For more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture during cooking. Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference.
Cook techniques
Brown the Ground Beef
Begin by heating a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to reduce fat content.
Chop Vegetables
While the beef is browning, chop the green bell pepper and yellow onion into small, uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and enhances the dish’s flavor and texture.
Drain Canned Ingredients
Before adding canned ingredients to the pot, ensure to drain the whole kernel corn, kidney beans, and pinto beans. This removes excess liquid and prevents the dish from becoming too watery.
Combine Ingredients
Once the beef is browned and drained, add the chopped vegetables, drained beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Season the Dish
Sprinkle in the cumin, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. These spices will enhance the flavor profile of the dish, so mix well to ensure even distribution.
Simmer the Mixture
Add 3 cups of water to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium and allow it to cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute lean ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a different flavor or dietary preference.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables to make it a hearty vegetarian dish.
How can I adjust the spiciness?
To make the dish spicier, you can add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or chili powder. For a milder version, reduce the amount of spices or omit the paprika.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or microwave.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This hearty and flavorful dish brings together a variety of ingredients to create a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of beans, tomatoes, and spices contributes to a rich texture and taste, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings.
Tex-Mex Chili
Combine the same ingredients but add jalapeños for heat and shredded cheese on top before serving.
Bean and Beef Tacos
Use the mixture as a filling for tacos. Top with lettuce, cheese, and salsa for a flavorful twist.
Cornbread Casserole
Layer the beef and bean mixture in a baking dish, top with cornbread batter, and bake until golden.
Chili Stuffed Peppers
Stuff halved bell peppers with the beef mixture, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender.
Vegetarian Version
Replace ground beef with lentils or quinoa, and add extra vegetables like zucchini or carrots for a hearty vegetarian option.
