Carne Guisada
My carne guisada recipe features tender, slow-cooked beef chunks in the most incredible gravy ever. It’s easy to make and even easier to eat! This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a comforting weeknight meal. The rich flavors blend beautifully, making it a standout option for any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and slow cooking creates a deep, satisfying taste that everyone will love.
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish with minimal effort.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with tortillas, or as a filling for tacos—endless possibilities!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; the flavors only get better.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will appreciate this hearty meal that brings everyone together.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making carne guisada, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy pot or Dutch oven: These tools provide even heat distribution, ensuring your meat cooks perfectly without drying out.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware; it helps mix ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements of spices are crucial for achieving that authentic carne guisada flavor.
Ingredients
For the Carne Guisada
- 2 1/2 tablespoons oil
- 2 pounds chuck steak (cubed)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 1 large bell pepper (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 large tomatoes (diced)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 cups beef broth
How to Make Carne Guisada
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Begin by heating oil in a pot over medium heat. Once hot, add onions and cook until they become translucent. Add garlic and continue cooking until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Then, add peppers and cook for a couple of minutes until they soften.
Step 3: Add Tomato Ingredients
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute. Next, add tomatoes to the pot and cook for a couple of minutes.
Step 4: Thicken the Gravy
Add flour to the pot and cook until heated through. Pour in the beef broth and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low.
Step 5: Simmer
Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add water as needed to keep the mixture from getting too thick.
Step 6: Serve
Once the meat is tender, serve the carne guisada warm. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for extra flavor. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite sides!
How to Serve Carne Guisada
Carne guisada is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it over rice, in tacos, or with fresh tortillas, this hearty stew is sure to please. Here are some delicious serving suggestions.
Over Rice
- White Rice: Serve carne guisada over fluffy white rice for a comforting meal.
- Spanish Rice: For added flavor, opt for Spanish rice infused with spices and tomatoes.
In Tacos
- Soft Corn Tortillas: Fill warm corn tortillas with carne guisada and your favorite toppings for a tasty taco treat.
- Crispy Taco Shells: Use crispy taco shells for a fun crunch alongside the tender meat.
With Tortillas
- Flour Tortillas: Pair carne guisada with soft flour tortillas for wrapping or dipping.
- Homemade Tortillas: Make homemade tortillas to elevate your meal experience.
As a Filling
- Nachos: Use carne guisada as a topping for nachos, adding cheese and jalapeños for a delightful snack.
- Burritos: Wrap carne guisada in burritos along with beans and cheese for a filling option.
How to Perfect Carne Guisada
To achieve the best carne guisada, consider these helpful tips that will enhance the flavors and texture of your dish.
- Choose the Right Cut: Select chuck steak for optimal tenderness during slow cooking.
- Brown the Meat Well: Ensure the meat is browned on all sides to develop rich flavors.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper as the stew simmers.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the stew to simmer gently for two hours to ensure the meat is tender and flavorful.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley just before serving for an extra burst of freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Carne Guisada
Pairing side dishes with carne guisada can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful rice dish featuring tomatoes and spices that complements the beef nicely.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness to your plate.
- Guacamole: Fresh guacamole brings brightness and creaminess that balances the savory stew.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch to your meal.
- Chips & Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make for an excellent appetizer.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro offers a refreshing contrast.
- Sauteed Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables sautéed in garlic provide nutrition and color on your plate.
- Salad Verde: A simple green salad dressed lightly allows a refreshing palate cleanse between bites of carne guisada.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making carne guisada, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
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Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the meat can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always ensure that you sear the beef on all sides for added depth of flavor.
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Not Using Enough Liquid: A common mistake is not adding sufficient broth. Make sure you have enough liquid to keep the meat tender and create a rich gravy.
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Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Add them at the right time so they retain some texture and flavor.
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Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your carne guisada as it cooks. Adjusting seasoning at different stages helps enhance the overall flavor.
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Rushing the Cooking Process: Carne guisada requires slow cooking for tenderness. Don’t rush; allow it to simmer properly for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Carne Guisada
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for tracking.
Reheating Carne Guisada
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s hot.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is carne guisada?
Carne guisada is a traditional Mexican beef stew made with tender chunks of beef cooked slowly in a flavorful gravy made from spices and vegetables.
How long does it take to make carne guisada?
This recipe takes about 121 minutes total, including prep and cooking time. The meat simmers for 2 hours for optimal tenderness.
Can I customize my carne guisada?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like potatoes or carrots, or adjust spices based on your taste preferences.
What do I serve with carne guisada?
Consider serving it with rice, tortillas, or over mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. It pairs well with beans too!
Final Thoughts
This carne guisada recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to fit your taste preferences by adjusting spices or adding extra veggies. Give it a try for a cozy family dinner that everyone will love!
Carne Guisada
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of carne guisada, a traditional Mexican beef stew that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe features tender beef chunks slow-cooked to perfection in a rich and savory gravy made from fresh ingredients and spices. With minimal effort and easy preparation, you can create a dish that brings everyone together around the table. Serve it over fluffy rice or in soft tortillas for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 tablespoons oil
- 2 pounds chuck steak (cubed)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 1 large bell pepper (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 large tomatoes (diced)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 cups beef broth
Instructions
- Heat oil in a heavy pot over medium heat. Add onions, cooking until translucent, then add garlic until fragrant.
- Add cubed beef and brown on all sides. Stir in bell peppers until softened.
- Mix in tomato paste and diced tomatoes; cook for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle flour into the mixture, stirring well before adding beef broth and seasonings.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
