Slow Cooker Taco Soup

Ingredients and Weight:

1. Beef stew meat: 500g
2. Onion: 1 large, chopped
3. Bell pepper: 1, chopped
4. Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
5. Taco seasoning mix: 40g (can be purchased at supermarkets)
6. Chicken broth or water: 4 cups
7. Kidney beans or black beans: 1 cup, cooked
8. Diced tomatoes: 1 can (200g)
9. Salsa (hot or mild): 1 cup (according to preference)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 4-6 hours (slow cooker)
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 6 hours 20 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate) - requires a bit of prep work and time, but the dish is quite rewarding and the slow cooker does most of the work for you.

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a slow cooker, place the beef stew meat, onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
2. Add the taco seasoning mix, chicken broth or water, and stir well to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the meat is tender and cooked through.
4. About an hour before serving, add the cooked kidney beans or black beans, diced tomatoes, and salsa into the slow cooker and stir well to combine.
5. Continue cooking for another hour until flavors are well combined and the soup is heated through.
6. Serve with desired toppings like cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh cilantro.

Nutritional Information: (per serving - varies depending on the exact ingredients used)

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 calories per serving (depending on toppings)
• Protein: 30-40g per serving (from meat and beans)
• Fat: Moderate from the meat and from toppings like cheese or sour cream.
• Carbohydrates: From beans, tomatoes, and seasoning mix.

Dish Characteristics:

• Hearty and flavorful, with a rich taco flavor profile.
• Slow cooked to ensure tender meat and rich flavor throughout the dish.
• Can be customized with various toppings to suit different tastes.

User Comments:

1. "This dish was a hit with my family! The slow cooking process gave it such rich flavor." - John Doe
2. "Easy to make in a slow cooker, perfect for a cold winter day." - Jane Smith
3. "Great dish for a potluck or gathering with friends." - Emily Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use a slow cooker with a tight-fitting lid to ensure maximum flavor retention during cooking.
• Adjust the seasoning mix and salsa according to your preference for spiciness.
• If you want to make this dish vegetarian, you can omit the beef stew meat and increase the beans and other ingredients accordingly.