Dive into a bowl of vibrant flavors with our Mexican Ranchero Amaranth Stew! This hearty dish combines the nutty goodness of amaranth with the warmth of spices and fresh vegetables, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress your dinner guests or simply want a nutritious weeknight dinner, this stew is sure to become a favorite. With just 50 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll be savoring every spoonful in no time. Ready to discover the secret to this deliciously satisfying stew? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup amaranth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the amaranth under cold water in a fine mesh strainer to remove any impurities. Set aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bell pepper softens.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the rinsed amaranth to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the amaranth is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- After 30 minutes, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or spices as desired. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Once the amaranth is fully cooked and the stew has reached your desired consistency, remove it from heat. Allow the stew to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the Mexican Ranchero Amaranth Stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado if desired. Enjoy!
Tips
- Rinse the Amaranth: Always rinse the amaranth thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness and impurities. This step is crucial for achieving the best flavor.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. This enhances their sweetness and builds a flavorful base for the stew.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to customize the spices according to your taste. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the stew to simmer longer if you have the time. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together, resulting in a richer taste.
- Thicker Stew Option: If you prefer a thicker stew, simply leave the lid off for the last few minutes of cooking to let some of the liquid evaporate.
- Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh cilantro or avocado adds a delightful freshness that complements the stew beautifully.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to loosen it up.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
