Early California Stew

Directions

1. 1
   At home: Stem, seed, devein, and coarsely chop poblano chilies.
2. 2
   In a 5- to 6-quart nonstick pan over medium-high heat, combine poblano chilies and 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil. Stir often until chilies are limp, about 5 minutes. Pour chilies into a bowl.
3. 3
   To pan, add remaining oil, meat, cumin, and oregano. Stir occasionally until meat is browned, about 5 minutes. Add onion, garlic, and vinegar. Stir often until onion is limp, about 3 minutes.
4. 4
   To pan, add tomatoes with their juice and 1 cup water. Cover and simmer over low heat until meat is tender when pierced, about 1 1/4 hours.
5. 5
   Soak chipotles with 1 cup hot water until pliable, about 20 minutes. Stem, seed, devein, and mince chipotles.
6. 6
   Cut turnip and carrots into 1/2-inch-thick sticks no more than 3 inches long. Drain and rinse beans and hominy.
7. 7
   To pan, add turnip, carrots, beans, hominy, and poblano chilies; stir, then add chipotle chilies to taste. Cover and simmer until vegetables are tender when pierced, about 20 minutes. Season to taste with salt.
8. 8
   Uncover stew and let cool. Seal in plastic freezer bags. Chill up to 2 days, or freeze up to 2 months. Transport in an insulated chest.
9. 9
   In camp: In a covered nonstick pan over low heat, warm chilled (thawed) stew, stirring occasionally. Add a little water to thin slightly, if desired.