Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef soup

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef:

  • Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. If the beef is lean, add olive oil to prevent sticking.
  • Drain any excess grease.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

  • Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

3. Build the Soup Base:

  • Stir in the green chiles, diced tomatoes, and pinto beans.
  • Add the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.

4. Add the Broth:

    • Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
  • Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Optional Additions:

  • Stir in the frozen corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a touch of sweetness.

6. Serve:

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  • Serve with lime wedges for a tangy finish and pair with cornbread, tortillas, or crusty bread on the side.

Tips and Variations

  • Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing mild or spicy green chiles. Add chili powder or cayenne for an extra kick.
  • Beans: Substitute or mix in black beans, kidney beans, or cannellini beans for variety.
  • Vegetarian Option: Skip the beef and use vegetable broth. Add diced zucchini or mushrooms for extra heartiness.
  • Toppings: Customize with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or tortilla chips for added flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Smoky and Flavorful: The spices and green chiles create a bold and satisfying flavor profile.
  • Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy nights, with simple prep and one-pot convenience.
  • Customizable: Tailor the soup to your spice tolerance and favorite toppings.
  • Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Enjoy this Pinto Bean, Green Chile, and Beef Soup as a comforting meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Let me know how it turns out! 🍲✨😊

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