Carne Con Calavasa

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Cuisine: Mexican

A flavorful Mexican-inspired dish featuring tender cubed roast beef simmered with roasted chilies, zucchini, and savory vegetables for a hearty, spicy meal.

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Ingredients

  • cubed roast beef
  • 4 yellow squash or zucchini
  • 1/2 large onion
  • 4 Anaheim chilies
  • 1 large tomato
  • 1 to 2 jalapeno peppers

Instructions

  1. Steam the chilies, jalapenos, and tomato in a large frying pan until softened.
  2. Remove the steamed chilies, jalapenos, and tomato from the pan and place them in a plastic bag to steam further and loosen skins. Then, peel off the skins.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider marinating the cubed roast beef in lime juice and spices for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute zucchini for yellow squash based on availability. If you prefer more heat, add additional jalapenos or use a spicier variety. Always taste as you go; adjusting seasoning can elevate the dish. This dish also pairs well with sides like rice or tortillas.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Carne Con Calavasa warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for added brightness. It pairs beautifully with rice or warm tortillas. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad, such as a Taco Salad - Low-Fat, to balance the rich flavors of the beef and vegetables.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent overcooking the beef. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help restore moisture and flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Carne Con Calavasa contains roughly 409 calories, with 7g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 681mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).

409 kcal 20% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.2g 14% DV
Total Fat 27.3g 35% DV
Carbs 35.1g 13% DV
Fiber 2.6g 9% DV
Sugar 5.5g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 680.5mg 30% DV
Potassium 167.7mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 16.5mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 25.2mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 4.2mg 5% DV
Calcium 38.6mg 3% DV
Iron 1.8mg 10% DV

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cubed roast beef with chicken, pork, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly, especially for chicken or pork, to ensure they are fully cooked.

What if I can't find Anaheim chilies?

If Anaheim chilies are unavailable, you can substitute them with poblano peppers or even bell peppers for a milder flavor. Alternatively, if you like heat, use serrano peppers for an extra kick.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the spice level, use more jalapeno peppers or opt for spicier varieties like serrano or Thai chilies. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes during cooking to customize the heat to your preference.

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).

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