Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Gather all of your ingredients first. Trust me, this simple step saves you from running around the kitchen looking for things last minute. Chop the onions, mince the garlic, and prepare your peppers. This part lays the foundation for success.
Step 2: Sear the Meat
- Heat the bacon fat or oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the chunks of chuck roast with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef in batches, ensuring you’re not overcrowding the pot. You want to achieve a nice, brown crust on the meat. This enhances the flavor, so take your time with it.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- Once the beef is browned and removed from the pot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until translucent. Then, throw in the minced garlic and stir for another minute. These aromatics are crucial—they add a depth of flavor that you won’t want to miss.
Step 4: Add the Green Chilies
- Add the fresh Anaheim, poblano, and jalapeño peppers to the pot. If you like it spicy, leave some seeds in the jalapeños, but if you're playing it safe, remove them. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes. The peppers will start to soften and release their moisture.
Step 5: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Spices
- Next, it’s time to add the tomatillos, cumin, oregano, allspice, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine everything. The tomatillos will break down as they cook, creating that luscious sauce we’re aiming for.
Step 6: Pour in the Chicken Stock
- Return the seared beef to the pot and pour in the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 2 hours. If you're using a slow cooker, transfer everything to it and let the flavors meld for 6-8 hours on low.
Step 7: Finish the Dish
- Once the beef is tender, stir in the masa harina and lime juice. This thickens the sauce and adds a beautiful richness. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Discard the bay leaf, and you’re ready to serve!
Notes
- Beef Chuck Roast: If you can't find chuck roast, brisket or round roast will work, though they offer slightly different textures and flavors.
- Chicken Stock: If you want something lighter, use vegetable broth. It will still give you a good depth of flavor.
- Fresh Chilies: If fresh chilies are unavailable, canned green chilies can be used. Just adjust the quantity to taste.
- Tomatillos: You can substitute canned diced tomatoes if tomatillos are hard to find, keeping in mind that it will change the flavor slightly.
- Fresh Cilantro: If you're not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or even green onions can provide a lovely garnish with a different flavor profile.
