If you’re looking to warm up your home and your loved ones with a hearty and flavorful meal, look no further than our delicious Durango Stew recipe. This comforting dish, inspired by the cozy vibes of a cabin in the mountains, is sure to become a family favorite. Packed with tender chunks of beef, vibrant veggies, and a blend of robust spices, this stew is the perfect one-pot wonder for a cozy dinner night at home. Let’s dive into creating this soul-warming Durango Stew!
**Durango Stew**
**Ingredients:**
– 1.5 lbs stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup frozen green beans
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Sear the Beef:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef in batches and sear until browned on all sides. This step helps to lock in the flavor. Once all the beef is browned, set it aside on a plate.
2. **Sauté Aromatics:** In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for a few minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the carrots, celery, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. **Simmer the Stew:** Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender.
5. **Add Vegetables:** After the stew has simmered for a while, add the frozen corn and green beans. Continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
6. **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You can also add more herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Ladle the warm and comforting Durango Stew into bowls. You can enjoy it as is or with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal. This stew is perfect for chilly days or when you need a cozy and satisfying dish.
This Durango Stew is a versatile recipe that you can customize to your liking. Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out the beef for chicken or turkey for a different twist. Enjoy this soulful stew with loved ones, and savor the heartwarming flavors that will transport you to a cabin in the mountains.
