Carne Guisada
My carne guisada recipe features tender, slow-cooked beef chunks in the most incredible gravy ever. It’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings, showcasing the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine. This dish stands out with its comforting warmth and savory aroma, making it a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy it on a cozy night in or serve it at your next celebration!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-packed goodness: The combination of spices and slow cooking creates an unforgettable taste.
- Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious meal without hassle.
- Versatile dish: Carne guisada pairs beautifully with rice, tortillas, or even over nachos for a delightful twist.
- Feeds a crowd: This recipe serves 8 people, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep.
- Comfort food classic: This hearty stew is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking carne guisada easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essential items before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Stirring spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A sturdy pot allows for even cooking and provides enough space for all ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables and meat, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
Ingredients
For the 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)
For Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
For Broth
- 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 cubed chuck steak to the pot:
Cook until browned on all sides.
Then, add chopped bell peppers and cook for a couple of minutes until they soften.
Step 3: Mix in Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste:
Cook for an additional minute.
Next, add diced tomatoes to the pot and cook for another couple of minutes.
Step 4: Thicken the Mixture
Sprinkle flour into the pot:
Cook until heated through.
Pour in beef broth and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low.
Step 5: Simmer the Stew
Cover the pot:
Let the stew simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Add water as needed to keep the mixture from getting too thick.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the meat is tender:
Serve your carne guisada warm.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor.
How to Serve Carne Guisada
Carne guisada is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its rich flavors pair well with many sides and toppings, allowing you to customize each meal.
Tacos
- Use warm corn tortillas to hold the tender beef, adding diced onions and cilantro for a fresh touch.
Rice
- Serve the carne guisada over a bed of fluffy white or Mexican rice to soak up the delicious gravy.
Beans
- Pair with refried beans or black beans for a protein-packed side that complements the savory notes of the dish.
Tortilla Chips
- Offer tortilla chips on the side for a crunchy contrast, perfect for scooping up the carne guisada.
Avocado Slices
- Fresh avocado adds creaminess and balances the spices in carne guisada. Simply slice and serve alongside.
Salad
- A light salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and lime dressing can provide a refreshing counterpoint to this rich meal.
How to Perfect Carne Guisada
To achieve the best carne guisada, consider these helpful tips for enhancing your dish.
- Choose quality meat: Select well-marbled chuck steak for tenderness and flavor after slow cooking.
- Sear meat thoroughly: Browning the beef before simmering adds depth to the overall taste.
- Use homemade broth: For an authentic flavor, use homemade beef broth instead of store-bought.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook; adjust salt and spices according to your preference.
- Let it rest: After cooking, let your carne guisada sit covered for a few minutes. This allows flavors to meld.
- Garnish creatively: Consider garnishing with lime wedges or fresh cilantro to brighten each serving.
Best Side Dishes for Carne Guisada
When planning your meal, choosing complementary side dishes can elevate your carne guisada experience. Here are some great options:
-
Mexican Rice
A flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices that pairs perfectly with beef. -
Refried Beans
Creamy refried beans provide a comforting side that’s packed with protein. -
Guacamole
Creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances out the spices in carne guisada. -
Cornbread
Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory stew, making every bite enjoyable. -
Grilled Vegetables
Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and onions contribute color and nutrients alongside your dish. -
Pico de Gallo
Fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro provides a refreshing crunch to complement the stew. -
Cilantro Lime Rice
This zesty rice enhances flavors while adding brightness to your plate. -
Chips and Salsa
Crunchy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa offer a fun starter before diving into carne guisada.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making carne guisada is simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.
- Using the wrong cut of meat: Always choose chuck steak for tenderness. Other cuts may not provide the same flavor or texture.
- Skipping the browning step: Browning the meat adds depth to the flavor. Take your time and achieve a nice crust before adding other ingredients.
- Overcooking vegetables: Add vegetables like bell peppers later in the cooking process to retain their texture and flavor.
- Not seasoning enough: Seasoning at each stage enhances flavor. Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings as you go.
- Ignoring simmering time: Patience is key! Letting the stew simmer for the full time ensures tender meat and rich gravy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover carne guisada in an airtight container.
- It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Carne Guisada
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Carne guisada can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Carne Guisada
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container. Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
- Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until hot, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is carne guisada?
Carne guisada is a traditional Mexican beef stew made with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and flavorful spices. It’s perfect served with rice or tortillas.
How do I make carne guisada more spicy?
To add more spice to your carne guisada, incorporate diced jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder in your recipe. Adjust according to your heat preference!
Can I use different meats for carne guisada?
Yes! While chuck steak is recommended for its tenderness, you can use other meats like brisket or round steak. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
What side dishes pair well with carne guisada?
Serve carne guisada with warm tortillas, rice, beans, or a fresh salad. These sides complement the rich flavors perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This carne guisada recipe is truly comforting and versatile. Whether you’re serving it for family dinners or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or vegetables!
Carne Guisada
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Experience the comforting warmth of Carne Guisada, a traditional Mexican beef stew that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. This recipe features tender chunks of chuck steak slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, savory gravy infused with spices that create an unforgettable flavor profile. Perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings, Carne Guisada is versatile enough to serve with rice, tortillas, or as a hearty filling for tacos. Enjoy it garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado for an extra layer of flavor.
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 and cook until translucent, then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add cubed chuck steak, browning on all sides. Stir in chopped bell peppers and cook until softened.
- Mix in tomato paste and diced tomatoes; cook for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stir, and 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. Add water if needed to maintain consistency.
- Serve warm and garnish 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: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
