For many families, a hearty meat-and-vegetable stew is more than a meal. It is a tradition passed down from one generation to the next.
Gemma Aguayo-Murphy, creator of Everyday Latina, where she shares Mexican and Latin American recipes with a healthy twist, offers a recipe that brings both flavor and cherished family memories to the table.
Her ground beef and jalapeño stew recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients that are both nutritious and deeply nostalgic.
“Its flavors and aromas evoke cherished childhood memories, transforming a simple meal into a comforting reminder of home and family,” Aguayo-Murphy said.
As cooler weather arrives, many people crave warm, comforting dishes. This ground beef and jalapeño stew delivers exactly that, making it a perfect addition to fall and winter menus.
Known in Mexico as ‘‘caldillo de carne molida,’’ the dish features ground beef, potatoes, tomatoes, onion, garlic and jalapeños simmered in a flavorful broth.
While this stew has many regional and family variations, Aguayo-Murphy loves the version she grew up with.
“I have early memories of eating this stew at my grandmother’s house in Mexico, where it was often on the menu because it was quick and easy to make. Now, I find myself making a big pot in my own kitchen for my family. It is one of those recipes that has been passed down through generations,” she said.
Aguayo-Murphy describes the dish as simple, comforting and full of flavor.
“The ground beef makes it hearty and satisfying, while the potatoes add substance. The tomatoes, onion, garlic and jalapeños contribute flavor, nutrients and a gentle heat that can easily be adjusted to suit individual tastes,” she said.
Beyond its comforting appeal, the stew offers several nutritional benefits. The beef provides protein, iron and zinc, while the potatoes contribute carbohydrates, potassium and fiber. The vegetables add vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Aguayo-Murphy recommends using lean ground beef to reduce saturated fat while maintaining flavor. The recipe is an easy one-pot meal, especially convenient for busy weeknights.
“I like to serve it as a hearty soup with plenty of broth or with less broth alongside rice and beans,” she said.
Ground beef and jalapeño stew recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef, preferably lean
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (if needed)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, diced
- 1 Roma tomato, diced
- 1 to 2 jalapeños, diced (depending on desired spice; in this case, it is level 2 medium)
- Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 3 cups chicken or beef broth
- 3 cups water
Preparation:
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. If using ground beef that is more than 85% lean, add 1 tablespoon of oil to the pot.
- Add the ground beef and season with salt, black pepper, and cumin. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon, until it is almost completely cooked through.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add the diced tomato and jalapeño and cook for another minute.
- Add the broth and water and stir to combine.
- Peel the potatoes, if desired, and cut them into ½-inch pieces. Add them to the pot and stir.
- Bring the stew to a simmer. Reduce the heat as needed and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve in bowls with plenty of broth. For a heartier meal, serve with less broth alongside rice and beans.
You may reach Gemma Aguayo-Murphy at [email protected] and on Instagram.