Colorado Chile, or Carne de Res con Chile Rojo Mexicano, is a comforting dish that brings warmth and rich flavors to the table. Imagine a hearty beef stew infused with a vibrant red chile sauce, perfect for cozy family dinners or gathering with friends. It’s a recipe that not only warms the belly but also the heart, evoking memories of celebrations or simply a Sunday evening meal that brings everyone together. The depth of flavor from the dried chiles and spices makes it truly special, showcasing Mexican culinary tradition at its best.

Why you’ll love this dish

This Colorado Chile is a delight for many reasons. First and foremost, it’s an authentic dish that can be made right in your own kitchen, delivering a robust flavor that rivals your favorite Mexican restaurant. It’s budget-friendly too, as you can acquire all the ingredients without breaking the bank, and the slow cooking method ensures that even the toughest cut of meat transforms into a fork-tender delight. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

"This Colorado Chile is hands down the best comfort food! The flavors are deep, hearty, and just perfect for any night of the week." – A happy home cook

Preparing Colorado Chile (Carne de Res con Chile Rojo Mexicano)

Making this dish is a straightforward process, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. You’ll begin by toasting and soaking the dried chiles, blending them into a smooth sauce, and then simmering the beef until it’s deliciously tender. The entire cooking process typically takes about 2 hours, but don’t let that deter you—most of it is hands-off time where the flavors meld beautifully.

What you’ll need

To bring this mouthwatering Colorado Chile to life, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 1/2 lbs beef chuck or stew meat, cut into chunks
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 6 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
• 2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
• 1 small dried árbole chile (optional, for heat)
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/4 small white onion
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups beef broth (divided)
• 1 bay leaf

Feel free to customize your spice levels by adjusting the amount of árbole chile or even introducing new ingredients that you love!