Beef Chile Rojo is a flavorful, spicy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration. This traditional Mexican recipe, rich with tender beef strips and vibrant red chile sauce, will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
Beef Chile Rojo
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef strips
- 4-5 dried red chilies (such as guajillo or ancho)
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3-4 green onions (optional, as shown in the picture)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chilies: Remove stems and seeds from the dried chilies. Soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes until they are soft.
- Make the Chile Sauce: Blend the soaked chilies, garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, and beef broth until smooth. Strain the mixture to remove any solid bits, resulting in a smooth sauce.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned on all sides. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine and Simmer: Pour the chile sauce over the beef in the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Optional Step (as shown in the picture): Add the green onions to the skillet for the last 10 minutes of cooking, allowing them to soften and absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Serve hot with warm tortillas, rice, or beans.
Suggested Pairings
Beef Chile Rojo pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks:
- Sides:
- Mexican Rice: The fluffy, tomato-infused rice is a perfect companion to soak up the rich chile sauce.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and savory, refried beans add a smooth texture contrast to the dish.
- Fresh Salsa: A refreshing pico de gallo or a tangy tomatillo salsa can complement the robust flavors of the beef chile rojo.
- Drinks:
- Margaritas: The classic lime margarita provides a zesty, citrusy contrast to the spicy beef.
- Horchata: This sweet, cinnamon-flavored rice drink can cool down the heat from the chile.
- Mexican Beer: A light Mexican lager like Corona or Modelo can balance the dish’s spice with its crispness.
With its bold flavors and comforting textures, Beef Chile Rojo is an excellent choice for any occasion. This dish brings together the warmth of Mexican cuisine with the robust flavors of chile-infused beef, making it a memorable meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a taste of Mexico, this recipe will not disappoint.
Enjoy your culinary adventure with Beef Chile Rojo and savor the delightful explosion of flavors!
