why make this recipe
Sweet Jalapeno Beef is an exciting dish that brings a delightful mix of flavors. The sweetness from the brown sugar balances perfectly with the heat from the jalapenos, making it a unique combination that pleases the palate. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
how to make Sweet Jalapeno Beef
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1-2 jalapenos, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in ground beef, cooking until browned.
- Drain excess fat, then add chopped jalapenos.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Pour over the beef mixture and stir to combine.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until flavors meld.
- Serve warm and top with cilantro if desired.
how to serve Sweet Jalapeno Beef
You can serve Sweet Jalapeno Beef in several ways. It pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles. You can also use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Adding a side of fresh salad or grilled vegetables enhances the meal. For a fun twist, serve it in lettuce wraps for a light and tasty option.
how to store Sweet Jalapeno Beef
To store Sweet Jalapeno Beef, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
tips to make Sweet Jalapeno Beef
- Use fresh jalapenos for the best flavor. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like your food.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrition.
- If you want a thicker sauce, let the mixture cook a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
variation
You can make Sweet Jalapeno Beef with ground turkey or chicken as a lean alternative. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or black beans instead of meat. Adding pineapple can also give it a fruity twist that complements the sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use dried jalapenos instead of fresh?
While fresh jalapenos provide the best flavor and texture, dried jalapenos can be used if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to soak them first to rehydrate.
Can I add more sugar if I like it sweeter?
Yes, you can adjust the brown sugar to taste. Start with a little and add more until you reach your preferred sweetness.
Is this dish spicy?
The heat level depends mostly on the amount of jalapenos you use. You can reduce or remove them if you prefer a milder dish.
Sweet Jalapeno Beef
A delightful mix of sweet and spicy flavors, Sweet Jalapeno Beef is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please a crowd.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1–2 jalapenos, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in ground beef, cooking until browned.
- Drain excess fat, then add chopped jalapenos.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Pour over the beef mixture and stir to combine.
- Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until flavors meld.
- Serve warm and top with cilantro if desired.
Notes
Use fresh jalapenos for the best flavor. Adjust the jalapeno amount based on your spice preference. For a thicker sauce, let the mixture cook longer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: beef, jalapeno, sweet, spicy, easy weeknight dinner