Calabaza and Poblano Stew
Becky Luigart-Stayner; Melanie J. Clarke and Jan Gautro
Redolent with honey, cinnamon, and aniseed, this stew highlights mild but exotic flavors typically associated with European cuisine, but which are also commonly used in Mexico. Calabaza is a pumpkinlike winter squash. Butternut squash is a good substitute. If you prefer a smoother consistency, use a potato masher to break up the squash.
How to Make It
Step 1
Preheat broiler.
Step 2
Cut poblano chiles in half; discard seeds and membranes. Place the chile halves, skin sides up, on a foil-lined baking sheet; flatten with hand. Broil 5 minutes or until blackened. Place in a heavy-duty zip-top plastic bag; seal. Let stand 15 minutes. Peel chiles; discard skins. Chop chiles.
Step 3
Place aniseed and cinnamon in a spice or coffee grinder; process until finely ground.
Step 4
Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion; sauté 5 minutes or until browned. Add garlic; sauté 1 minute. Add cinnamon mixture to pan; sauté 1 minute. Add chopped chiles, squash, broth, water, honey, and salt; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 30 minutes or until squash is tender.
Step 5
Drizzle each serving with Crema Mexicana; sprinkle with pumpkinseeds.
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GreenRQ's Review
This is a good solid base, but it seemed to be lacking spice. The flavoring of the cream works very well with the broth, but that is the biggest taste profile.
ajvinande's Review