Carne Guisada
My carne guisada recipe showcases tender, slow-cooked beef chunks in a rich and flavorful gravy that will delight your taste buds. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or even meal prep for the week. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients makes this carne guisada an unforgettable experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this delicious dish without any fuss.
- Flavorful: The slow cooking process allows all the spices and ingredients to meld together, creating a savory gravy that’s bursting with flavor.
- Versatile: Serve it over rice, with tortillas, or as a filling for tacos to suit your meal preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the refrigerator and tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a hearty dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delectable carne guisada recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Stirring spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for slow-cooking the carne guisada evenly while allowing room for all the ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp knife helps chop vegetables easily and safely.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients without damaging your countertops.
- Stirring spoon: Useful for mixing ingredients thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
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 large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add chopped onions and cook until they become translucent. Add minced garlic and continue cooking until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the cubed chuck steak to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Then, introduce chopped bell peppers and cook for a couple of minutes until they soften.
Step 3: Add Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute. Next, add diced tomatoes to the pot and let them cook down for a couple of minutes.
Step 4: Thicken the Mixture
Sprinkle flour over the mixture in the pot. Cook until heated through before pouring in beef broth. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring this delectable mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Step 5: Simmer
Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add water as needed to keep it from getting too thick.
Step 6: Serve
Once the meat is tender, serve your carne guisada warm. For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro before enjoying!
How to Serve Carne Guisada
Carne guisada is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and toppings. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
With Rice
- Serve carne guisada over a bed of fluffy white rice for a hearty and satisfying combination.
In Tacos
- Fill soft or crunchy tortillas with carne guisada, adding fresh toppings like onions, cilantro, and salsa for extra flavor.
With Tortillas
- Accompany your carne guisada with warm corn or flour tortillas, perfect for scooping up the delicious gravy.
On Nachos
- Layer carne guisada on tortilla chips with melted cheese and jalapeños for a tasty nacho platter ideal for sharing.
With Beans
- Pair it with refried beans or black beans to create a well-rounded meal that’s full of flavor and protein.
Over Polenta
- Serve carne guisada over creamy polenta for a comforting twist that soaks up the savory sauce beautifully.
How to Perfect Carne Guisada
To achieve the ultimate carne guisada, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish every time.
- Choose the right cut: Use chuck steak or similar cuts as they become tender when slow-cooked.
- Sear the meat: Browning the meat before simmering enhances flavor through caramelization.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the taste of your gravy.
- Season gradually: Start with basic seasoning and adjust as needed during cooking for balanced flavor.
- Let it simmer: Allowing the dish to simmer slowly helps the flavors develop fully and makes the meat tender.
- Garnish creatively: Add fresh cilantro or avocado slices before serving to brighten up your plate.
Best Side Dishes for Carne Guisada
Completing your carne guisada meal with delightful side dishes can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the rich flavors of carne guisada beautifully.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a delicious base that pairs perfectly with beef stews.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and freshness, balancing out the hearty beef flavors.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make a great appetizer before digging into your main dish.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn topped with cheese and spices offers a sweet and savory contrast to carne guisada.
- Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and brightness, refreshing each bite of rich stew.
- Cornbread: Moist cornbread serves as a delightful side that soaks up all the sauce from your carne guisada.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies add a smoky flavor, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking carne guisada can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are a few tips to help you avoid them.
- Skipping the Browning: Not browning the meat before simmering can lead to less flavor. Make sure to brown the beef chunks well for a richer taste.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold broth or vegetables can lower the cooking temperature. Always use room temperature ingredients for better results.
- Not Monitoring Simmering: Letting the stew boil vigorously instead of simmering can make the meat tough. Keep it at a low simmer for tenderness.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning as you cook can leave your dish bland. Always season gradually and check flavors before serving.
- Rushing the Cooking Time: Carne guisada needs time to develop its flavor. Resist the urge to rush; allow it to slow-cook for at least two hours.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Carne Guisada
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Carne Guisada
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and cover with foil; heat until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a saucepan, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Carne Guisada?
Carne guisada is a traditional Mexican beef stew made with tender chunks of beef simmered in a flavorful gravy.
How do I make Carne Guisada more flavorful?
To enhance flavor, add spices like oregano or bay leaves, and consider marinating the meat beforehand.
Can I use other meats for Carne Guisada?
Yes! While chuck steak is traditional, you can use pork or chicken as alternatives.
How can I thicken my Carne Guisada?
If your sauce is too thin, mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew while cooking until thickened.
Final Thoughts
This carne guisada recipe offers not only comfort but also versatility. You can customize it with different vegetables or spices based on your preference. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, making it a fantastic go-to dish that everyone will love!
Carne Guisada
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of carne guisada, a classic Mexican beef stew that combines tender chunks of slow-cooked beef with a savory gravy infused with a medley of spices and fresh ingredients. This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or meal prep for the week ahead. With its easy-to-follow recipe and versatile serving options, carne guisada promises to satisfy your cravings while impressing family and friends alike. Serve it over rice, in tacos, or alongside warm tortillas for an unforgettable meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
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 large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions; sauté until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Introduce cubed chuck steak to the pot; brown on all sides. Add chopped bell peppers and sauté until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste and diced tomatoes; cook for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture; mix well before pouring in beef broth. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add water if necessary to maintain desired consistency.
- Once the meat is tender, serve warm—garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow-Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
