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### 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!
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