Carne Guisada
My carne guisada recipe features tender, slow-cooked beef chunks in the most incredible gravy ever. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings alike. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this dish is sure to impress! Whether you’re serving it as a hearty main course or over rice for a filling meal, carne guisada stands out with its delightful taste and aroma.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: The steps are straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.
- Rich Flavor: Slow cooking brings out deep flavors, ensuring every bite is savory and satisfying.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings; it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with various sides.
- Comfort Food: This dish warms the soul, ideal for chilly evenings or when you need some comfort food.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for leftovers; the flavors deepen after a day in the fridge.
Tools and Preparation
To make carne guisada effortlessly, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the key items you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy pot or Dutch oven: Retains heat well, allowing for even cooking of the beef.
- Sharp knife: Ensures easy cutting of vegetables and meat, making prep time quicker.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
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 and cook until they become translucent. Then, add minced 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. This step enhances flavor by developing a nice crust on the beef.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Add the chopped bell peppers to the pot. Cook for a couple of minutes until they soften slightly. Stir to combine everything well.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste
Stir in one tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for an additional minute to blend flavors. Then add diced tomatoes to the mixture and cook for another couple of minutes.
Step 5: Thicken with Flour
Sprinkle two tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the mixture. Stir well to ensure everything is coated evenly and cook until heated through.
Step 6: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in two cups of beef broth along with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring this mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low.
Step 7: Simmer
Cover your pot and let your carne guisada simmer gently for about two hours. Stir occasionally, adding water if needed to prevent thickening too much.
Step 8: Serve
Once the meat is tender, ladle your flavorful carne guisada into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving warm.
Enjoy this delicious carne guisada with rice or warm tortillas!
How to Serve Carne Guisada
Carne guisada is a delicious and hearty dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want a traditional meal or a creative twist, here are some great serving suggestions.
Tacos
- Use warm corn or flour tortillas to wrap the carne guisada. Top with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for an authentic taste.
Rice
- Serve carne guisada over a bed of fluffy white or Spanish rice. The rice absorbs the flavorful gravy, making each bite delightful.
Tortillas
- Pair carne guisada with homemade or store-bought tortillas. You can use them to scoop up the tender meat and sauce for an easy, hands-on meal.
Nachos
- Layer tortilla chips with carne guisada, cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream for a tasty nacho platter. This makes for a great appetizer or party snack.
Beans
- Serve alongside refried or black beans for added protein and flavor. The creamy texture complements the savory beef stew perfectly.
Salad
- Accompany your carne guisada with a fresh green salad. A light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish while adding crunch.
How to Perfect Carne Guisada
To achieve mouthwatering carne guisada, consider these helpful tips that enhance the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
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Choose quality beef: Opt for chuck steak for its rich marbling, which results in tender cuts after slow cooking.
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Sear the meat well: Browning the meat before simmering adds depth to the flavor. Make sure to brown all sides thoroughly.
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate your carne guisada. Opt for ripe tomatoes and fresh garlic whenever possible.
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Allow time to simmer: Patience is key! Slow cooking allows flavors to meld together beautifully; let it simmer low and slow for at least two hours.
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Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce as it simmers and adjust salt and spices according to your preference. This ensures balanced flavors in every bite.
Best Side Dishes for Carne Guisada
Pairing side dishes with carne guisada enhances your dining experience. Here’s a list of fantastic options that complement this savory stew.
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Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and spices provides a perfect base for soaking up delicious gravy.
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Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with savory carne guisada, offering a delightful contrast in flavors.
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Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds freshness and richness, making it an excellent accompaniment to your meal.
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Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice brightens up each bite of carne guisada.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add color and health benefits alongside your main dish.
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Chips & Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make for an irresistible starter before diving into carne guisada.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice adds brightness to your meal while providing an extra layer of flavor that complements the beef stew.
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Queso Dip: A creamy cheese dip is perfect for dipping tortilla chips or drizzling over carne guisada tacos for extra decadence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making carne guisada, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.
- Skipping the browning step: Browning the meat is crucial for flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds depth to your carne guisada.
- Not seasoning enough: If you don’t season properly, the dish can taste bland. Always taste as you go and adjust your spices.
- Overcooking or undercooking: Timing is key. Too long can make the meat dry; not long enough leaves it tough. Stick to the recommended cooking time.
- Ignoring the gravy consistency: A good carne guisada should have a rich gravy. If it’s too thick, add more broth; if too thin, let it simmer longer without the lid.
- Using low-quality ingredients: The quality of your meat and vegetables impacts flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store carne guisada in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Carne Guisada
- Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Carne Guisada
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about carne guisada.
What is Carne Guisada?
Carne guisada is a traditional Mexican beef stew made with tender chunks of beef cooked slowly in a savory gravy.
Can I use other cuts of meat for Carne Guisada?
Yes, you can substitute chuck steak with other cuts like brisket or flank steak, but cooking times may vary.
How do I make Carne Guisada spicier?
To add heat, incorporate more chili powder or fresh jalapeños into your recipe for a spicier kick.
Can I make Carne Guisada in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, it often tastes better the next day as flavors meld together. Just follow proper storage instructions.
Final Thoughts
This carne guisada recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, bringing warmth and comfort to any table. Try it out and enjoy every hearty bite!
Carne Guisada
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately six servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of carne guisada, a traditional Mexican beef stew that warms both the heart and soul. This easy recipe features tender chunks of slow-cooked chuck steak simmered in a savory gravy made from fresh vegetables and spices. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings, carne guisada is versatile enough to be served on its own, over rice, or in hearty tacos. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that will impress your loved ones. Let the enticing aromas fill your kitchen as this delightful stew bubbles away, creating an unforgettable meal that everyone will adore.
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 and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic until fragrant.
- Add cubed chuck steak; brown on all sides for enhanced flavor.
- Mix in chopped bell peppers and cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste and diced tomatoes; cook for another couple of minutes.
- Sprinkle with flour, stirring well to coat the mixture evenly.
- Pour in beef broth, adding salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and let simmer gently for about two hours or until meat is tender. Stir occasionally.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
