Carne Guisada
My carne guisada recipe features tender, slow-cooked beef chunks in the most incredible gravy ever. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. The rich flavors and hearty texture make it a standout choice that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious meal that feels special without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, even beginner cooks can make this dish with confidence.
- Rich Flavor: The blend of spices and slow cooking brings out the best in the beef, creating a savory gravy that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with tortillas, or as a filling for tacos. The possibilities are endless!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please picky eaters and adults alike, making it ideal for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making carne guisada, gather your essential tools for smooth cooking. Having the right equipment makes preparing this delicious dish easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy pot or Dutch oven: These pots distribute heat evenly, ensuring that your carne guisada cooks perfectly without burning.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, allowing you to prep your ingredients efficiently.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface while mixing flavors thoroughly.
Ingredients
For the Beef Stew
- 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 heavy pot over medium heat. Once hot, add chopped onions. Cook until they become translucent, then add minced garlic and continue cooking until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add cubed chuck steak to the pot. Cook until browned on all sides. Next, incorporate the chopped bell peppers into the pot and cook for an additional couple of minutes until they soften.
Step 3: Add Tomato Ingredients
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute. Then, add diced tomatoes to the pot and let them cook for another couple of minutes.
Step 4: Thicken the Stew
Sprinkle flour over the mixture in the pot. Stir well until heated through. Pour in beef broth and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low.
Step 5: Simmer
Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 2 hours. Stir occasionally; add water as needed to prevent it from getting too thick during cooking.
Step 6: Serve
Once the meat is tender, serve your carne guisada warm. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
This carne guisada recipe serves about eight people, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prepping! Enjoy every delicious bite!
How to Serve Carne Guisada
Carne guisada is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or at a gathering, there are plenty of delicious options to enhance your meal.
Tacos
- Use warm corn tortillas to fill with carne guisada, adding fresh cilantro and diced onions for a classic touch.
Rice Bowls
- Serve carne guisada over a bed of white or brown rice, topped with avocado slices and lime wedges for an extra zing.
Nachos
- Layer tortilla chips with carne guisada, cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream for a tasty snack or appetizer.
Quesadillas
- Spread shredded cheese and carne guisada between flour tortillas. Grill until golden brown for a melty treat.
Burritos
- Roll carne guisada in large flour tortillas along with rice and beans for a hearty burrito option.
Tortas
- Fill crusty bolillo rolls with carne guisada, avocado, and jalapeños for a satisfying sandwich.
How to Perfect Carne Guisada
To achieve the ultimate carne guisada, consider these helpful tips that will elevate the flavors and texture of your dish.
- Choose the right cut of meat – Chuck steak is ideal due to its tenderness when slow-cooked.
- Let it simmer – A longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully; aim for at least 2 hours.
- Use fresh spices – Freshly ground cumin and chili powder enhance the richness of your gravy.
- Don’t skip the browning – Browning the meat adds depth and flavor to your stew.
- Adjust seasoning gradually – Taste as you go to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
- Garnish wisely – Fresh cilantro or diced onions adds a refreshing finish to each serving.
Best Side Dishes for Carne Guisada
Pairing sides with your carne guisada can make the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some fantastic options that complement this savory dish perfectly.
-
Spanish Rice
A flavorful rice dish cooked with tomatoes and spices that pairs well with the rich gravy of carne guisada. -
Refried Beans
Creamy refried beans add protein and a satisfying texture alongside carne guisada. -
Guacamole
Creamy avocado mixed with lime juice and spices offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef stew. -
Corn Tortillas
Soft corn tortillas are perfect for scooping up carne guisada or making mini tacos. -
Chips and Salsa
Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a crunchy side that enhances the overall experience. -
Grilled Vegetables
Seasonal vegetables grilled with olive oil make for a colorful and healthy accompaniment. -
Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
Sweet corn topped with cheese, lime, and chili powder complements the flavors of carne guisada beautifully. -
Cilantro Lime Rice
Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime zest adds brightness to balance out the rich stew.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making carne guisada can seem straightforward, but certain mistakes can hinder the final dish. Here are common pitfalls to avoid:
- Using Low-Quality Meat: Poor-quality beef won’t yield tender results. Always choose good cuts like chuck steak for the best flavor and texture.
- Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the meat adds a layer of flavor. Make sure to take the time to sear the beef before adding other ingredients.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your stew bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning for a robust flavor profile.
- Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time: Rushing the cooking process will result in tough meat. Letting it simmer for at least two hours is crucial for tenderness.
- Ignoring Thickness Adjustments: If your gravy is too thick, add water or broth gradually. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a while.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover carne guisada in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Carne Guisada
- Freeze in a sturdy container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- For best quality, label containers with dates.
Reheating Carne Guisada
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on medium power in intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring often to ensure even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about carne guisada, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions regarding this delicious dish.
What is Carne Guisada?
Carne guisada is a traditional Mexican beef stew made with tender chunks of beef slowly cooked in a rich gravy.
How do I make carne guisada more flavorful?
To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like bay leaves or additional herbs such as oregano during cooking.
Can I use other meats for carne guisada?
Yes! While beef is traditional, you can use pork or chicken as variations for this recipe.
How do I thicken carne guisada?
If your sauce is too thin, you can add more flour or cornstarch mixed with water as a slurry. Simmer until thickened.
Final Thoughts
This carne guisada recipe offers comfort and warmth that’s hard to resist. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite spices and vegetables. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious dish; you’ll be delighted by its rich flavors!
Carne Guisada
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 8 people 1x
Description
Carne Guisada is a beloved Mexican comfort food that features tender, slow-cooked beef simmered in a rich and savory gravy. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this hearty dish is sure to please everyone at the table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can whip up a delicious meal that feels special without the hassle. Serve it over rice, in tacos, or with warm tortillas for an irresistible experience. Enjoy the robust flavors of carne guisada that will leave your taste buds wanting more!
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 chopped onions and cook until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add cubed chuck steak, browning on all sides. Incorporate bell peppers and cook until softened.
- Mix in tomato paste and diced tomatoes; cook for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stir well, then pour in beef broth. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder; bring to a boil before reducing heat to low.
- Cover and let simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Adjust thickness with water or broth if necessary.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 22 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 27 grams
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
