Authentic Mexican Braised Beef with Peppers and Onions – Step-by-Step Recipe

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Mexican Braised Beef with Peppers and Onions is a rich, slow-cooked dish bursting with bold flavors. The combination of tender beef, sweet bell peppers, and savory onions creates a mouthwatering meal that captures the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine.

This dish is braised low and slow, allowing the beef to absorb deep, smoky spices while becoming incredibly tender. Whether served over fluffy rice, tucked into warm tortillas, or layered in burritos, it’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

If you’re craving a hearty and comforting Mexican-inspired dish, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients for the Perfect Braised Beef Recipe

Using high-quality ingredients is key to achieving deep, authentic flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients

• Beef chuck roast – Well-marbled and ideal for slow cooking.
• Bell peppers – Red, yellow, or green for sweetness and color.
• Onions – White or yellow onions enhance the depth of flavor.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic cloves for an aromatic touch.
• Tomatoes – Diced tomatoes or fire-roasted tomatoes add richness.

Spices and Seasonings

• Cumin – A warm, earthy spice essential in Mexican cuisine.
• Chili powder – Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.
• Smoked paprika – Gives the dish a subtle smoky taste.
• Oregano – Mexican oregano enhances the authenticity of the dish.

Liquid Base for Braising

• Beef broth – Deepens the savory umami taste.
• Tomato sauce – Thickens the braising liquid and adds richness.
• Adobo sauce – A smoky, slightly spicy option for extra depth.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mexican Braised Beef

This method ensures tender, flavorful beef infused with the perfect blend of spices. Follow these simple steps to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Proper preparation ensures smooth cooking and enhances flavor.

• Trim the beef – Remove excess fat and cut the chuck roast into large chunks for even cooking.
• Chop the vegetables – Slice the bell peppers and onions thinly, and mince the garlic.
• Measure the spices – Mix cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

Step 2: Searing the Beef for Maximum Flavor

Searing helps lock in juices and adds a deep, caramelized taste.

• Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Add beef chunks in a single layer, searing each side for 2-3 minutes until browned.
• Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 3: Slow Cooking or Braising the Beef

Braising allows the beef to become tender while absorbing all the rich flavors.

• In the same pot, sauté onions and bell peppers until softened (about 5 minutes).
• Stir in the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until its aroma fills the air.
• Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and adobo sauce (if using).
• Return the seared beef to the pot and pour in 1 cup of beef broth.
• Cover and cook on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender.

👉 Slow Cooker Option: Transfer seared beef and sautéed vegetables to a slow cooker, add liquids, and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.

Step 4: Shredding and Serving Suggestions

Once fully cooked, the beef should be fall-apart tender.

• Use two forks to pull apart the beef right in the pot, blending it thoroughly with the rich sauce.
• Adjust seasoning if needed, adding extra salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Serving Ideas:

• Tacos – Fill warm corn tortillas and top with cilantro and queso fresco.
• Rice Bowls – Serve over Mexican rice with black beans.
• Burritos – Wrap with rice, cheese, and avocado for a hearty meal.
• Fajitas – Serve with warm tortillas and sautéed onions and peppers.

This step-by-step process guarantees a flavorful and tender dish. Let me know if you need any refinements!

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What is Mexican Braised Beef with Peppers and Onions?

Mexican Braised Beef with Peppers and Onions is a slow-cooked dish that transforms simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful meal. Braising involves searing the beef first, then simmering it in a flavorful liquid at a low temperature. This process enhances the beef’s natural taste, making it incredibly tender and juicy.

Why Braising Enhances Flavor

• Searing locks in juices and creates a deep, caramelized crust.
• Slow cooking allows the beef to absorb spices and aromatics fully.
• The braising liquid thickens into a rich, savory sauce that coats the beef.

Traditional Mexican Ingredients in This Dish

This dish stays true to authentic Mexican flavors by using key ingredients such as:

• Beef chuck roast – Perfect for slow cooking due to its marbling.
• Bell peppers and onions – Add sweetness and depth.
• Garlic and tomatoes – Provide richness and balance.
• Mexican spices – A blend of cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika infuses bold flavors.

How This Recipe Compares to Barbacoa or Carne Guisada

• Barbacoa – Traditionally made with beef cheek or lamb, slow-cooked until shredded, often with a tangy, vinegar-based sauce.
• Carne Guisada – A Mexican beef stew with a thicker gravy-like consistency, usually served with rice or tortillas.
• Mexican Braised Beef – Falls between the two, offering tender, shredded beef in a flavorful yet slightly brothy sauce with peppers and onions.

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Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions

Cooking Methods: Stovetop, Slow Cooker, or Instant Pot

This recipe can be adapted to different cooking methods depending on your time and convenience:

• Stovetop (Traditional Braising) – Cook on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
• Slow Cooker – After searing, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.
• Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker) – Use the Sauté function to sear the beef, then cook on HIGH pressure for 45 minutes with a 15-minute natural release.

Serving Ideas

Mexican braised beef is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

• Over Rice – Serve with Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice for a hearty meal.
• With Tortillas – Use soft corn or flour tortillas to make tacos or fajitas.
• Inside Burritos – Wrap the beef with rice, cheese, beans, and avocado for a loaded burrito.
• With Refried Beans – Serve alongside refried beans and fresh guacamole for a traditional Mexican plate.

Spice Level Adjustments

Adjusting the spice level allows you to customize the dish to your taste:

• For a Milder Flavor – Reduce the chili powder, omit adobo sauce, and use mild smoked paprika instead of regular.
• For a Spicier Kick – Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, diced chipotle peppers, or extra adobo sauce.
• For a Smoky Heat – Use chipotle powder or fire-roasted tomatoes.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?

Yes! While chuck roast is ideal for braising, you can also use:

• Beef brisket – Slightly leaner but still tender when slow-cooked.
• Short ribs – Adds extra richness due to the bone-in flavor.
• Beef shank – Requires a longer cooking time but delivers deep flavors.

How Can I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

• Storage – Store any leftovers in a sealed, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days to maintain freshness.
• Freezing – Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating – Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

What Are the Best Sides to Serve with Braised Beef?

Pair this dish with classic Mexican sides for a complete meal:

• Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
• Refried beans or black beans
• Grilled corn (elote)
• Fresh guacamole and salsa

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! Mexican braised beef tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

• Make-Ahead – Cook and store it in the fridge overnight. Reheat before serving.
• Meal Prep – Portion into containers for quick lunches or dinner throughout the week.

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You’ll Also Love

If you enjoyed this Mexican Braised Beef with Peppers and Onions, here are more delicious recipes to try:

• Slow Cooker Barbacoa Beef – A flavorful, smoky, and tender shredded beef perfect for tacos and burrito bowls.
• Carne Guisada (Mexican Beef Stew) – A hearty and savory beef stew simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce.
• Birria Tacos – Juicy, slow-cooked beef served in crispy, cheese-filled tortillas with consommé for dipping.
• Spicy Chipotle Chicken Tacos – Smoky and spicy shredded chicken tacos packed with bold Mexican flavors.
• Authentic Mexican Rice – A classic side dish with a perfect blend of tomatoes, garlic, and seasonings.

Conclusion

Mexican Braised Beef with Peppers and Onions is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the rich, authentic taste of Mexican cuisine to your kitchen. With its tender, slow-cooked beef and perfectly balanced spices, this recipe is versatile enough for tacos, burritos, rice bowls, or even meal prep.

Give this recipe a try and experiment with different serving options to make it your own. Whether you prefer a mild or spicy version, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Don’t forget to share your creations using #BeesRecipes on Instagram – we’d love to see how you enjoy this delicious braised beef!