Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Mexican Beef Stew?
Savory Mexican Beef Stew is a hearty, slow-cooked dish featuring tender beef, tomatoes, black beans, and mexicorn, seasoned with taco spices and chili powder.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What size slow cooker is recommended for this stew?
A 4-quart crock pot or slow cooker is recommended for this recipe.
How long does the beef need to cook in the slow cooker?
The beef stew meat should be cooked on the low setting for 9 to 11 hours to ensure it is perfectly tender.
What are the main ingredients for Mexican Beef Stew?
The main ingredients include beef stew meat, canned tomatoes, frozen onions, chili powder, taco seasoning, black beans, and mexicorn.
Is the chili powder required for this recipe?
No, the chili powder is listed as an optional ingredient to adjust the heat to your preference.
When should I add the black beans and mexicorn?
Add the rinsed black beans and drained mexicorn after the initial 9 to 11 hours of slow cooking is complete.
How do I finish the stew after adding the beans and corn?
After adding the beans and corn, switch the slow cooker to high and cook for an additional 15 to 30 minutes.
Should I drain the canned tomatoes before adding them?
No, the recipe specifies using the canned tomatoes along with their juice.
Do I need to brown the beef before putting it in the crock pot?
No, the instructions indicate to combine the raw beef cubes directly with the other ingredients in the crock pot.
How many calories are in one serving of this Mexican beef stew?
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories.
What is the protein content of this dish?
This stew is high in protein, providing 27g per serving.
How much fat is in this beef stew?
There are 8 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
There are 33 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is mexicorn?
Mexicorn is a canned whole kernel corn product that usually includes chopped red and green bell peppers.
How should I prepare the beef for this stew?
The beef stew meat should be cut into 1-inch cubes before cooking.
Can I use fresh onions instead of frozen?
Yes, while the recipe calls for 1 cup of frozen small whole onions, fresh diced onions can be substituted.
What is the suggested serving accompaniment?
This stew is delicious served with fresh tortillas or over a bed of rice.
Is this recipe suitable for a family dinner?
Yes, it is described as an ideal meal for family gatherings or dinners because it is hearty and easy to prepare.
How do I prepare the black beans for the stew?
The black beans should be thoroughly rinsed and drained before being added to the pot.
What kind of seasoning gives it the Mexican flavor?
A 1.25-ounce packet of taco seasoning mix and optional chili powder provide the primary Mexican flavor profile.
How many ounces of canned tomatoes are needed?
The recipe requires 28 ounces of canned tomatoes.
Can I cook this on high heat for the whole duration?
The recipe specifically recommends cooking on low for 9-11 hours to tenderize the beef, though most slow cooker recipes can be adapted to high for 4-6 hours if needed.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a zesty flavor from the taco seasoning; the spiciness can be increased or decreased by the amount of optional chili powder used.
How much beef is required?
You will need 2 lbs of beef stew meat.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, beef stew typically freezes well; ensure it is cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
How do I adjust the consistency of the stew?
The final 15 to 30 minutes of cooking on high helps the stew reach your preferred thickness.
What size is the taco seasoning packet?
The recipe calls for one standard 1.25-ounce packet.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 total ingredients in this recipe.