A light, brothy stew from Puebla and Guerrero with meat, vegetables, and mild dried chiles. This healthy, protein-rich family soup offers a gentler, everyday alternative to complex moles.
Add beef, chicken broth, onion, garlic, bay leaf, and salt to a large pot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, skimming foam as needed.
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 50–60 minutes until the beef is just tender but not falling apart.
While the beef cooks, toast guajillo and ancho chiles in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes, turning until fragrant but not burned.
Soak the toasted chiles in 1 cup of hot water for 10 minutes, then blend with oregano and peppercorns until completely smooth.
Strain the chile puree into the beef pot. Add potato and carrot; simmer on medium for 15 minutes.
Stir in corn rounds and green beans, cook 10 minutes, then add zucchini. Continue simmering gently until all vegetables are soft but not mushy, about 10 minutes.
Taste and adjust salt. Discard bay leaf and onion before serving. Serve hot with fresh herbs or lime if desired.