Hearty Pinto Bean & Green Chile Beef Soup

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat the oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef stew meat (or ground beef if using) and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Brown the meat: Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to brown it evenly on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Cook the onion and garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the green chiles: Stir in the diced green chiles and cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients

1. Return the beef: Add the browned beef back into the pot, along with any juices that have collected. Stir to combine with the vegetables.
2. Add the beans and tomatoes: Pour in the drained pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine everything.
3. Season the soup: Add the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and more salt if needed. Stir well to incorporate the spices into the soup.
4. Add the corn (optional): If you like a bit of sweetness and texture, you can add frozen corn at this point. It will add a lovely contrast to the other flavors.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook

1. Bring to a simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
2. Simmer: Let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, allowing the flavors to develop and the beef to become tender. Stir occasionally, adding more beef broth or water if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add extra salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your taste.
2. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for brightness and freshness. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or cornbread.

Tips for Perfecting Your Hearty Pinto Bean & Green Chile Beef Soup:

• Use slow-cooked beef: For a more tender result, consider using beef that’s been slow-cooked for several hours. A slow cooker or pressure cooker can be used to get the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Adjust the spice level: The green chiles add a mild heat, but if you prefer more spice, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Make it your own: This soup is very customizable—add extra veggies such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers for more texture and nutrients.
• Freezing for later: This soup freezes well, so you can make a big batch and save some for later. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers for freezing.

Why Hearty Pinto Bean & Green Chile Beef Soup is Perfect for You:

This soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with protein, fiber, and a burst of flavor in every spoonful. The tender beef and creamy pinto beans combine with the smokiness of green chiles and the warmth of spices to create a dish that’s perfect for cozying up on a chilly day. It’s easy to make, customizable, and incredibly satisfying, making it a staple in any home.

Hearty Pinto Bean & Green Chile Beef Soup is not only filling but also versatile enough to serve as a stand-alone meal or paired with a light salad or cornbread. It’s a great option for family dinners, meal prep, or even hosting guests. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!

Conclusion: A Soup That Will Warm Your Soul

If you’re in the mood for a soul-warming, hearty meal that’s full of flavor, Hearty Pinto Bean & Green Chile Beef Soup is the perfect choice. With tender beef, creamy beans, and a touch of spice, this soup is a satisfying and delicious meal for any occasion. It’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and discover why this soup is truly comfort food at its finest!