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! Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is a comforting classic that will impress your guests. The rich flavors and hearty texture make carne guisada a standout meal that can be enjoyed on various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making carne guisada is a breeze.
- Rich Flavor: Slow-cooking allows the beef to absorb the spices, resulting in a deep and savory flavor.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, with tortillas, or alongside beans for a complete meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it perfect for leftovers during the week.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tender meat and flavorful gravy.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect carne guisada, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for simmering the beef and allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables for even cooking.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
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: Sauté Vegetables
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:
Cook until browned on all sides.
Then, add peppers and cook for a couple of minutes until they soften.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes
Stir in the tomato paste:
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:
Cook until heated through.
Pour in the beef broth and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil:
Reduce heat to low.
Cover the pot and let it simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add water as needed to keep it 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 your delicious carne guisada!
How to Serve Carne Guisada
Carne guisada is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you want a hearty meal or a simple snack, there are numerous options to enjoy this flavorful stew.
Tacos de Carne Guisada
- Use warm corn or flour tortillas to wrap the tender beef and gravy. Top with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for freshness.
Rice Bowl
- Serve carne guisada over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. Add some avocado slices and pico de gallo for extra flavor and texture.
Nachos
- Spread tortilla chips on a plate and generously top them with carne guisada. Add melted cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream for a delicious appetizer.
Burritos
- Roll carne guisada into large flour tortillas along with rice, beans, and your favorite toppings. This makes for a filling and satisfying meal.
Quesadillas
- Place carne guisada between two tortillas with cheese and grill until crispy. Cut into wedges for an easy-to-eat snack.
Sopes
- Serve carne guisada on thick corn sopes topped with refried beans, lettuce, crema, and queso fresco for a delightful twist.
How to Perfect Carne Guisada
To create the most delicious carne guisada, follow these helpful tips. Each suggestion will enhance flavor and tenderness in your dish.
- Choose the right cut: Use chuck steak or brisket as they become tender during slow cooking.
- Marinate meat: If time allows, marinate the beef overnight to deepen its flavor.
- Brown the meat well: Searing the meat adds depth and richness to the gravy.
- Use fresh spices: Freshly ground cumin and chili powder give a more robust flavor than pre-ground versions.
- Control the heat: Keep it low during simmering to ensure tender meat; high heat can make it tough.
- Add acidity: A splash of lime juice or vinegar at the end brightens up the flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Carne Guisada
Pairing side dishes with carne guisada can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options that complement this savory stew perfectly.
- Mexican Rice – Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices is perfect for soaking up gravy.
- Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans add protein and texture; serve them alongside or as a topping.
- Corn Tortillas – Freshly made corn tortillas are ideal for scooping up carne guisada or enjoying on their own.
- Fried Plantains – Sweet fried plantains provide a lovely contrast to the savory meat stew.
- Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip enhances every bite; serve it fresh with tortilla chips.
- Salad Verde – A simple green salad with lime dressing adds brightness and balance to your plate.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder offers vibrant flavor.
- Chips & Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa make for a fun appetizer before dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Carne guisada is a delicious dish, but it’s easy to make mistakes while preparing it. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.
- Flavoring: Skipping on seasonings can lead to bland carne guisada. Be sure to use enough spices like cumin and chili powder to enhance the flavor.
- Overcooking Meat: Cooking the beef too long can make it tough. Aim for a tender simmer rather than boiling the meat vigorously.
- Ignoring Browning: Not browning the meat before adding other ingredients can affect flavor depth. Take time to sear the beef for a rich taste.
- Neglecting Vegetables: Forgetting to soften vegetables like onions and peppers may result in an uneven texture. Always sauté them until they’re tender.
- Skipping Gravy Adjustments: If your gravy is too thick, don’t hesitate to add water or broth. This will keep it from becoming too dry during cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store carne guisada in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Carne Guisada
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It lasts for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Carne Guisada
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Simmer on low heat with a splash of broth or water until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about carne guisada that may help you further understand this dish.
What cut of meat is best for Carne Guisada?
Chuck steak is ideal for carne guisada due to its rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked.
Can I make Carne Guisada ahead of time?
Yes, carne guisada tastes even better when made ahead! Letting it sit allows flavors to meld beautifully.
How do I thicken the gravy in my Carne Guisada?
If your gravy is too thin, add a slurry of cornstarch and water or more flour during cooking for thickness.
Can I customize my Carne Guisada recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables, beans, or spices according to your taste preferences.
Is Carne Guisada gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute flour with gluten-free alternatives like cornstarch or rice flour.
Final Thoughts
This carne guisada recipe offers a comforting meal that warms the heart. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences. Whether served over rice, with tortillas, or enjoyed plain, you’ll find it hard not to love this flavorful dish!
Carne Guisada
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Carne Guisada is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any table. This traditional Mexican beef stew features tender chunks of slow-cooked chuck steak simmered in a rich, savory gravy infused with aromatic spices and fresh vegetables. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Serve it over rice, in tacos, or with warm tortillas for a delightful meal that everyone will love. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, Carne Guisada is sure to impress your guests with its hearty texture and robust flavors.
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 onions and sauté until translucent, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add cubed chuck steak to the pot and brown on all sides. Stir in chopped bell peppers and cook until softened.
- Mix in tomato paste and cook for an additional minute before adding diced tomatoes.
- Sprinkle flour into the mixture and stir well, then pour in beef broth, seasoning with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally and adding water if necessary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
