Travel back in time to the early days of Colorado and the cattle trails that led into the state with Chuck Wagon Chow – a cowboy recipe that has stood the test of time. Ed Jones from Baker City, Oregon, shares this rustic and hearty dish, whose ingredients can be adapted based on what’s available.
INGREDIENTS:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2 pounds beef top round steak (½ inch thick), cut into ½-inch cubes
- ¼ cup canola oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green pepper, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, juice drained and reserved
- 1 can (16 ounces) whole kernel corn, juice drained and reserved
PREPARATION:
- In a large plastic bag, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper. Add the beef cubes to the bag and shake to coat them evenly.
- In a Dutch oven or large skillet, brown the beef cubes in canola oil. Add the chopped onion, green pepper, and minced garlic; cook until the peppers are crisp-tender. Stir in the chili powder, dried oregano, and the reserved liquid from the kidney beans and whole kernel corn. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, until the meat becomes tender, which usually takes about 45-50 minutes. Stir in the kidney beans and corn, and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the dish is heated through.
YIELD: 6-8 servings
COOKING TIME: 55 minutes (including preparation time)
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- For a spicier kick, you can add additional chili powder or hot sauce to the dish.
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as diced tomatoes or bell peppers, to customize the flavor according to your taste preferences.
Take a journey into the Old West with Chuck Wagon Chow – a timeless cowboy recipe that hails from the early days of Colorado or the cattle trails that led into the state. This rustic and hearty dish has been passed down through generations and offers a taste of history on a plate.
Crafted by Ed Jones from Baker City, Oregon, Chuck Wagon Chow is a versatile recipe, allowing for ingredient variations based on what’s available. The dish features tender beef top round steak cubes coated in a savory blend of all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper, adding a delightful textural element to each bite.
As the beef browns in canola oil, the aromatic trio of chopped onions, green peppers, and minced garlic infuses the dish with earthy flavors. The addition of chili powder and dried oregano elevates the taste, transporting you to the rugged landscapes and open plains of the Old West.
What truly makes Chuck Wagon Chow stand out is the ingenious use of canned kidney beans and whole kernel corn, their juices reserved to create a rich and hearty sauce. This slow-simmered medley of flavors allows the beef to tenderize and the tastes to meld together beautifully.
As you savor each spoonful of Chuck Wagon Chow, you’ll be transported back to a bygone era, where cowboys gathered around a campfire, relishing the comforting flavors of this nourishing and satisfying dish.
Whether you’re looking to recreate a slice of history or simply seeking a hearty meal that celebrates the pioneer spirit, Chuck Wagon Chow fits the bill perfectly. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of cowboy culture and the resourcefulness of trailblazers.
So, gather around your own “Chuck Wagon” and create lasting memories as you enjoy this cowboy classic. From Baker City, Oregon, to your own dining table, embrace the spirit of adventure and culinary innovation with a taste of the Old West.
