Hungry Joe Dish Recipe

Finely chop the shallot, mince the garlic, dice the onion, red bell pepper and tomato. Drain and rinse the kidney beans. If using frozen corn, rinse under warm water to loosen and drain.

Measure out spices and have tomato paste, beef broth, crushed tomatoes and brown sugar ready.

Heat oil & soften aromatics

Place a large skillet or medium pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. When shimmering, add the chopped shallot and diced onion. Sauté 3–4 minutes until translucent, stirring occasionally so they do not brown aggressively.

Add garlic and pepper

Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper to the pan. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.

Brown the beef

Push vegetables to the side, increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon. Cook 5–7 minutes until no pink remains and the beef has some brown bits. Drain excess fat if more than 2 tablespoons remain, leaving a little for flavor.

Add tomato paste & spices

Stir in the 2 tablespoons tomato paste and cook 1 minute to caramelize slightly. Add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes. Cook 30–60 seconds to bloom the spices.

Add tomatoes, broth & beans

Add the 1 cup crushed tomatoes, diced fresh tomato, 1/2 cup beef broth and the drained kidney beans. Stir to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Simmer

Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low and let cook, uncovered or partially covered, for 12–18 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add corn & finish flavors

Stir in the 1/2 cup corn, 1 teaspoon brown sugar (or honey) and 1 tablespoon lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more salt or chili powder if desired. Simmer 2–3 more minutes to meld flavors.

If the mixture is too thick, stir in up to 1/4 cup additional beef broth or water to reach desired consistency.

Stir in chopped cilantro if using. Remove from heat.

Spoon Hungry Joe Dish over cooked rice or serve with crusty bread. Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt.

Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve hot.