Chili Colorado is a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. This classic Mexican dish features tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce made from dried red chilies. It’s perfect for chilly evenings when you want something hearty and satisfying. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s cooking is simply irresistible.
This recipe brings out the deep, earthy flavors of the chilies, creating a sauce that’s both spicy and savory. Served over rice or with warm tortillas, Chili Colorado is a delightful way to experience the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine.
Delicious Chili Colorado: A Taste of Tradition
Chili Colorado is a robust dish that combines succulent beef with a velvety sauce made from dried red chilies, garlic, and spices. The result is a dish that’s both spicy and savory, boasting a rich depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.
The taste of this Chili Colorado is a perfect balance of warmth and spice, creating a satisfying meal that lingers long after the last bite.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4-5 dried red chilies (such as New Mexico or Ancho)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Tortillas or rice for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chilies: Remove the stems and seeds from the dried chilies. Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then soak them in hot water for 15 minutes.
- Blend the Sauce: Drain the chilies and place them in a blender with garlic, cumin, oregano, and a bit of the soaking water. Blend until smooth and set aside.
- Sear the Meat: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.
- Cook the Onions: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Return the browned beef to the pot.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the blended chili sauce over the beef, add the beef broth, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve the Chili Colorado hot with warm tortillas or over rice.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
