Carne con Chile with Refried Beans

Carne con Chile with Refried Beans is a classic, hearty Mexican dish that’s packed with bold flavors and comforting textures. Here’s a simple overview along with a recipe if you want to make it at home:

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🌶️ What Is Carne con Chile?

“Carne con Chile” translates to “meat with chile,” typically made with:

• Beef (or pork) chunks, simmered until tender

• A rich red chile sauce made from dried chiles like guajillo, ancho, or pasilla

• Garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, and sometimes tomato

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🍛 Served With: Refried Beans

Refried beans (frijoles refritos) are pinto beans cooked, mashed, and fried—often in lard or oil—with onions and garlic for flavor. They’re creamy, savory, and the perfect match for the spicy, meaty stew.

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📝 Simple Recipe

🍖 For the Carne con Chile:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck or pork shoulder, cubed

• 5 dried guajillo chiles (stems/seeds removed)

• 3 dried ancho chiles

• 3 cloves garlic

• 1/2 onion

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1/2 tsp oregano

• Salt to taste

• 2 cups beef broth or water

• Oil for browning

Steps:

1. Toast and soak chiles in hot water for 20 minutes.

2. Blend chiles with garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, and 1 cup soaking water until smooth.

3. Brown meat in a pot with oil until seared on all sides.

4. Add sauce to the meat, then broth. Simmer covered for 1.5–2 hours until tender.

5. Season to taste.

🫘 For the Refried Beans:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked pinto beans (or 1 can)

• 2 tbsp lard or oil

• 1/4 onion, finely chopped

• Salt to taste

Steps:

1. Sauté onion in lard/oil until soft.

2. Add beans with a bit of their liquid. Mash with a masher or spoon.

3. Cook until thickened and creamy. Season to taste.

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🍽️ Serving Ideas:

• Warm flour or corn tortillas

• Mexican rice

• Sliced avocado or queso fresco

• Pickled jalapeños on the side

Would you like a version for a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or a specific dietary need (like vegetarian or low-sodium)?