Chile Verde Sopita

Ingredients:

1 Tbsp oil

½ lb ground beef or sausage (or diced beef)

½ onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1–2 Roma tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)

1 small green bell pepper, chopped

½ cup tomato sauce (optional for richer flavor)

6 cups chicken or beef broth

1 cup elbow macaroni

1 tsp salt (to taste)

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp oregano

½ tsp cumin

½ tsp chili powder or paprika (optional for color and spice)

1 cup mixed vegetables (like carrots, peas, or green beans — optional)

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Instructions:

1. Brown the meat:
   Heat oil in a pot. Add beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté aromatics:
   Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until softened.
3. Add tomatoes and seasoning:
   Stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–5 minutes.
4. Add broth:
   Pour in chicken or beef broth. Bring to a boil.
5. Cook the pasta:
   Add macaroni and reduce to a simmer. Cook 10–12 minutes, until pasta is tender.
6. Adjust seasoning:
   Taste and add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.
7. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice. Serve hot with warm tortillas or crusty bread.

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