Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Season the meat: Sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly over the beef pieces. This enhances the flavor and helps the meat brown beautifully.
- Heat the oil: In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef: Add the beef pieces in a single layer, cooking until browned on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Remove the beef: Transfer the seared beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Incorporate the spices: Add the ground cumin and dried oregano, stirring well to coat the onions and garlic.
Step 3: Simmer the Beef
- Return the beef to the pot: Stir the seared beef back in with the aromatics.
- Pour in the broth: Add the beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Cover and simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 2 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the more tender the beef will become.
Step 4: Make the Green Chile Sauce
- Prepare the oven: Preheat your oven to high broil and position the rack on the second-highest level.
- Roast the peppers and tomatillos: Place the halved poblano peppers, jalapeños, and tomatillos cut-side down on a baking sheet. Broil for about 7-10 minutes, or until the skins are blistered and slightly blackened.
- Steam the peppers: Immediately transfer the roasted peppers to a plastic bag and seal it shut. Let them steam for about 5 minutes—this makes peeling the skin easier.
- Blend the sauce: Peel the skin off the peppers, then add them to a blender along with the roasted tomatillos and fresh cilantro. Blend until smooth.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
- Add the sauce to the beef: Pour the green chile sauce into the pot with the simmering beef.
- Simmer to meld flavors: Cook everything together for another 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly, and the flavors will deepen.