Are you looking to spice up your dinner routine with a flavor-packed Mexican dish? Look no further than conchitas con carne, a traditional recipe that combines tender pasta shells with savory beef and a rich tomato sauce. This meal is sure to please your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. So put on your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s go over the key ingredients you will need for conchitas con carne:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) of tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces of conchitas pasta
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
Now that you have gathered your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a mouthwatering conchitas con carne:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef to the other side. Break up the beef with a spatula and cook until it is browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce
Pour the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce into the skillet with the beef and vegetables. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together, then reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the beef and vegetable mixture is simmering, cook the conchitas pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water liberally to add flavor to the pasta.
Step 6: Combine and Bake
Once the pasta is cooked al dente, drain it and add it to the skillet with the beef and vegetables. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 7: Bake and Garnish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: While conchitas are the traditional choice for this recipe, feel free to experiment with other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells.
Q: Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
A: Certainly! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. You can also try using vegetarian crumbles for a meatless version.
Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder or use a mild variety. For spice enthusiasts, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
Conclusion
Conchitas con carne is a classic Mexican dish that combines the hearty flavors of beef, pasta, vegetables, and spices. By following this simple recipe, you can recreate the authentic taste of Mexico in your own kitchen. Treat your taste buds to a fiesta of flavors and impress your family and friends with this delicious and satisfying meal. So why wait? Get cooking and enjoy a plate of conchitas con carne today!
Key Takeaways
- Conchitas con carne is a traditional Mexican dish that features pasta shells, ground beef, and a savory tomato sauce.
- This recipe is customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level and substitute different proteins or pasta shapes.
- Make sure to sauté the aromatics, brown the ground beef, and simmer the ingredients to enhance the flavors of the dish.
- Cook the pasta separately and combine it with the beef and vegetables before baking with cheese.
- Garnish your conchitas con carne with fresh cilantro for a burst of refreshing flavor.
References:
- Smith, J. (2023). Authentic Mexican Cuisine: Exploring the Flavors of Mexico. Food & Culture Magazine, 15(4), 30-35.
- Gonzalez, M. (2022). The Art of Mexican Cooking. Taqueria Publishing.
- Recipe adapted from The Mexican Kitchen Blog. Available at: <a href=”https://mexicankitchen.com”>https://mexicankitchen.com</a>
