Chile Colorado: A Hearty Mexican Classic

ByEmma

Chile Colorado—literally meaning “red chili”—is a beloved Mexican stew known for its tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, smoky red chile sauce. This dish is a staple in many Mexican households, celebrated for its deep flavors and comforting warmth.

Contents

🌶️ What Is Chile Colorado?

Despite its name, Chile Colorado has no connection to the U.S. state of Colorado. The term “colorado” refers to the reddish hue of the dish, derived from the dried red chiles used in its preparation. The stew typically features beef slow-cooked in a sauce made from dried chiles, garlic, onions, and spices, resulting in a flavorful and hearty meal .

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare an authentic Chile Colorado, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2–2.5 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 5–6 dried red chiles (such as guajillo, ancho, or New Mexico chiles)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Pro Tip: To enhance the flavor, lightly toast the dried chiles in a dry skillet before soaking them. This step brings out their natural oils and adds depth to the sauce.

🍲 How to Make Chile Colorado

  1. Prepare the Chiles: Remove stems and seeds from the dried chiles. Toast them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant. Then, soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes until softened.
  2. Make the Chile Sauce: Drain the soaked chiles and blend them with garlic, cumin, oregano, and a bit of the soaking water until smooth. Strain the sauce to remove any remaining solids.
  3. Sear the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear the pieces until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.
  4. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onions and cook until translucent.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Return the beef to the pot, pour in the chile sauce, and add the beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Pro Tip: For a thicker sauce, uncover the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the liquid to reduce.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Chile Colorado is traditionally served with:

  • Warm tortillas (corn or flour)
  • Mexican rice
  • Refried beans
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

It also makes a delicious filling for burritos, enchiladas, or tacos.

🧊 Storing and Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Chile Colorado freezes well. Place cooled stew in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Chile Colorado is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, offering a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Whether you’re new to Mexican cooking or a seasoned enthusiast, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

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