Carne de res en salsa con verdolagas is a traditional Mexican dish that combines beef with a flavorful green sauce, and the addition of verdolagas (purslane) gives it a unique, tangy flavor. The verdolagas, known for their slightly sour taste and rich texture, pair wonderfully with the tender beef.
Here’s a simple recipe to make Carne de Res en Salsa con Verdolagas:
Ingredients:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 2-3 chiles gueros or poblano peppers (depending on your spice preference), roasted, peeled, and chopped (optional)
- 2 cups fresh verdolagas (purslane), cleaned and chopped
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the beef:
- Cut the beef stew meat into bite-sized chunks if necessary.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the beef and brown on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef and set aside.
- Make the sauce:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the chopped tomatoes (and optional chiles) and cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- You can blend this mixture into a smooth sauce or leave it chunky, depending on your preference.
- Simmer the beef:
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the cumin, salt, pepper, and enough beef broth or water to cover the meat.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add the verdolagas:
- Once the beef is tender, add the fresh verdolagas to the pot. Stir them into the sauce and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the verdolagas are tender but still vibrant.
- Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired, alongside rice, tortillas, or beans.
This dish combines the richness of beef with the tangy freshness of verdolagas, creating a comforting and flavorful meal. Enjoy!
