Southwest Ragout
Southwest Ragout is a hearty, flavorful vegetarian dish featuring tender potatoes, sweet corn, black beans, and vibrant peppers in a rich tomato base. Perfect for a comforting meal, it suits both meatless days or as a side with grilled meats, offering bold, smoky flavors with fresh cilantro.
Ingredients
- 1 large red potato, cut into 1/2-inch pieces ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil ⓘ
- 1 medium green or red pepper, cut into 1/2-inch pieces ⓘ
- 2 or 3 large garlic cloves, chopped ⓘ
- 1 (14 1/2 oz.) can Mexican style stewed tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 (12 oz.) can corn, drained ⓘ
- 1 (15 to 16 oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. minced fresh cilantro ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the potato in a small pot of boiling salted water until almost tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Drain the potato and set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a heavy, large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the pepper and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped garlic and stir for 1 minute.
- Add the stewed tomatoes with juices, corn, black beans, cilantro, and the cooked potato to the saucepan.
- Simmer until the potato is very tender and the liquids are thick, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, consider adding diced zucchini or Anasazi veggies for extra texture and flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in some canned salsa or diced jalapeños. You can substitute the black beans with pinto beans if desired, and if fresh cilantro isn't available, parsley can work as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions
This Southwest Ragout pairs beautifully with warm tortillas for tacos or as a hearty topping for nachos. Serve it alongside a fresh avocado dressing or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It also works well as a filling for burritos or as a side dish to grilled meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or warm it in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwest Ragout contains roughly 690 calories, with 16g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (130% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and iron (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 501mg per serving (22% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ragout ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat it gently before serving to maintain its texture.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This Southwest Ragout is entirely plant-based, making it a perfect option for vegan recipes. Just ensure that any additional toppings or sides you serve with it are also vegan-friendly.
What can I serve with this ragout?
You can serve this dish with rice, quinoa, or over a bed of greens for a lighter option. It also pairs well with tortilla chips for dipping or as a filling for burritos. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra creaminess.
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).