Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Finish:
Stir in the crispy bacon that was set aside. Let the stew cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
Serve:
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Tips:
Adjust Spice Level: For a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Make Ahead: This stew can be made ahead of time and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Freeze for Later: It’s also great for freezing. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
This Hearty Three-Bean Bacon and Beef Stew is perfect for feeding a crowd and is sure to warm you up on a cold day. Enjoy it with some crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal!
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