Aztec-Inspired Cacao Chile Beef

Slow-braised beef with ancho chile, tomato, warm spice, and a small amount of unsweetened cacao.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 pounds beef chuck, cubed
• 2 ancho chiles, softened and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

Directions

1. Brown beef in batches and set aside.
2. Cook onion and garlic until fragrant.
3. Stir in ancho chile, cumin, cinnamon, and cocoa.
4. Add tomatoes, broth, and beef.
5. Cover and simmer gently about 2 1/2 hours until very tender.
6. Adjust seasoning and serve with corn tortillas or rice.