Calabacitas Con Carne Molida En Salsa Verde: A Flavorful Mexican Delight
Calabacitas con Carne Molida en Salsa Verde is a traditional Mexican dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of zucchini, ground beef, and tangy salsa verde. This recipe brings together the freshness of vegetables, the heartiness of ground beef, and the zesty kick of salsa verde, resulting in a mouthwatering and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium zucchini, diced
- 2 cups fresh or canned salsa verde
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for added heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. Remove any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Stir in the diced zucchini and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the zucchini starts to soften.
- Pour in the salsa verde, ground cumin, and chili powder (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the zucchini to become tender.
- Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Once the calabacitas con carne molida en salsa verde is cooked to perfection, transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired, to add a burst of freshness and color.
- Serve the dish as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enjoy it on its own. It pairs well with warm tortillas, rice, and refried beans.
Variations:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and replace it with cooked black beans or corn.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor and heat.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding hot sauce to taste.
Cook’s Notes:
- Feel free to experiment with different types of salsa verde, whether store-bought or homemade, to find your preferred level of tanginess and heat.
- If the mixture becomes too thick during cooking, you can add a small amount of water or chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
Calabacitas Con Carne Molida En Salsa Verde is a traditional Mexican dish that showcases the abundance of fresh vegetables found in Mexican cuisine. The star of the dish is calabacitas, which refers to zucchini in Spanish. Combined with savory ground beef and tangy salsa verde, this dish offers a delightful medley of flavors that is both satisfying and comforting.
To make Calabacitas Con Carne Molida En Salsa Verde, ground beef is first browned and cooked through, infusing it with rich flavors. The addition of finely chopped onions and minced garlic adds aromatic depth to the dish. The zucchini, diced into bite-sized pieces, is then added to the skillet and cooked until tender, while still retaining a slight crunch.
Salsa verde, a vibrant and tangy green salsa made with tomatillos, adds a burst of flavor to the dish. It brings a delightful tanginess and a touch of heat, depending on the spiciness of the salsa used. The ground cumin elevates the overall flavor profile, while chili powder can be added for those who prefer a bit of extra heat.
As the dish simmers with the salsa verde, the flavors meld together, creating a cohesive and delicious combination. The result is a savory and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. The versatility of Calabacitas Con Carne Molida En Salsa Verde allows you to get creative with how you serve it.
For those who enjoy a vegetarian option, the ground beef can be omitted and replaced with cooked black beans or corn. This variation still offers a hearty and flavorful dish that is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
When it comes to garnishing, chopped fresh cilantro can be sprinkled on top to add a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish. The cilantro not only provides a pop of color but also enhances the overall taste experience.
Calabacitas Con Carne Molida En Salsa Verde is a versatile and delicious dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. It is a wonderful way to incorporate zucchini into your meals and is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
So, whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or simply looking to try something new, give Calabacitas Con Carne Molida En Salsa Verde a try. Embrace the flavors, enjoy the textures, and savor the deliciousness of this traditional Mexican delight.
Calabacitas con Carne Molida en Salsa Verde is a delightful Mexican dish that celebrates the flavors of zucchini, ground beef, and zesty salsa verde. This recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or simply looking to expand your culinary horizons, this dish is a must-try. Prepare it with love, serve it with flair, and savor every delicious bite.
