Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef Soup

Warm up with a hearty bowl of this delicious Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef Soup! It’s the perfect comfort food for those chilly evenings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can green chilies, chopped
• 2 cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro

Instructions:

• In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add in the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
• Stir in the green chilies, pinto beans, beef broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
• Serve hot with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g

Popular questions:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

• Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried pinto beans, but you will need to soak and cook them beforehand.

• Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute for beef broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.

• How can I make this soup spicier?

You can add extra chopped green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat of this soup.

• Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

• Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Feel free to add diced tomatoes, corn, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

• How long will this soup keep in the refrigerator?

This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can brown the beef and onion, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

• Can I use black beans instead of pinto beans?

Yes, black beans can be used as a substitution for pinto beans in this recipe.

• What other toppings can I add?

Other toppings like avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or a squeeze of lime juice can enhance the flavors of this soup.

Helpful tips:

• For added depth of flavor, toast the cumin in a dry skillet before adding it to the soup.
• You can add a splash of lime juice for a bright and tangy flavor in the soup.
• Try using a combination of beef and pork for a different flavor profile.
• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier alternative topping.
• Don’t skimp on the toppings – they add texture and flavor to the soup.
• For a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans before adding them to the soup.
• Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less green chilies.
• Serve the soup with warm cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
• Leftover soup can be repurposed as a filling for tacos or burritos.
• Experiment with different types of beans, such as kidney beans or black-eyed peas, for variety.

Expert Secrets:

• Simmer the soup for a longer time to allow the flavors to meld together for optimum taste.
• For a smokier flavor, add a splash of liquid smoke to the soup.
• Use homemade beef broth for a richer and more flavorful base.
• Top the soup with pickled jalapenos for an extra kick of heat.
• Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a hint of earthy spice.
• Incorporate cooked bacon pieces for a savory and indulgent addition to the soup.
• For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the pinto beans before adding them to the pot.
• Experiment with different types of chili peppers for varying levels of heat and flavor complexity.
• Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving for a burst of citrusy freshness.
• To enhance the umami taste, stir in a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.