Calabacita
Calabacita is a hearty Mexican vegetable stew featuring zucchini, corn, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for a comforting, nutritious family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the fryer in a deep saucepan using 3 tablespoons of shortening.
- Add chopped onion and tomato, then brown.
- Add chopped squash, frozen corn, and seasonings to taste.
- Stir in 4 tablespoons of tomato sauce.
- Cover and simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier meal, consider adding black beans or cooked chicken to the dish. If you're out of zucchini, yellow squash or eggplant can work as substitutes. Adjust the cumin and garlic based on your taste preference, and feel free to add a pinch of chili powder for extra heat. This dish can also be served over rice for a filling option.
Serving Suggestions
Calabacita is delightful on its own or served with warm tortillas or rice. It pairs beautifully with Fiesta Grilled Peppers for a colorful meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside a refreshing Frozen Margarita to balance the flavors. Garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it for quick reheating, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calabacita contains roughly 560 calories, with 25g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (91% of the Daily Value), and potassium (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 815mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh corn! Just make sure to cook it a bit longer to ensure it's tender. Fresh corn can add a sweeter flavor and crunch to the dish, making it even more enjoyable.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by ensuring that any added proteins are plant-based and by using vegetable shortening instead of animal fats. The use of zucchini and corn keeps it light and healthy, perfect for those following vegan recipes.
What can I do if I don't have tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes. You could also blend fresh tomatoes with a bit of water to create a sauce-like consistency. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).