Conchitas con Carne is a comforting Mexican dish that brings together the heartiness of ground beef with the tender bite of shell pasta. Each bite is infused with robust flavors from toasted pasta, aromatic onions and garlic, and a rich tomato broth seasoned with chili powder and cumin.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups small shell pasta (conchitas)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: chopped cilantro, grated cheese, or avocado for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shell pasta and toast, stirring frequently until lightly golden.
- Sauté the aromatics: Push the pasta to one side of the pot. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the open side and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Brown the meat: Add the ground beef to the pot with the onions and garlic. Cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
- Season and simmer: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir well to combine everything.
- Simmer until done: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the flavors have melded.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro, grated cheese, or avocado slices if desired.
