Carne Guisada
My carne guisada recipe features tender, slow-cooked beef chunks in the most incredible gravy ever. It’s a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This authentic Mexican recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether served over rice or with tortillas, carne guisada is versatile and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The slow-cooked beef absorbs all the spices, creating a savory and hearty taste that delights the palate.
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family meal or a festive gathering, carne guisada fits right in.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in tacos, or with crusty bread—there are endless ways to enjoy this dish.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutritious veggies, this dish makes for a wholesome meal.
Tools and Preparation
To create delicious carne guisada, having the right tools on hand can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A sturdy pot ensures even cooking and provides ample space for all ingredients to simmer together.
- Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, which saves time during preparation.
- Wooden spoon: This tool is perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, allowing you to mix ingredients gently.
Ingredients
For the Meat
- 2 pounds chuck steak (cubed)
For the Vegetables
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 1 large bell pepper (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 large tomatoes (diced)
For the Sauce
- 2 1/2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 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 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 and cook until browned on all sides. Then, add peppers and cook for a couple of minutes until they soften.
Step 3: Mix in Tomato Products
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute. Next, add tomatoes to the pot and cook for a couple of minutes.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Add flour to the pot and cook until heated through. Pour in the beef broth and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low.
Step 5: Simmer
Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add water as needed to keep the mixture from getting too thick.
Step 6: Serve
Once the meat is tender, serve your carne guisada warm. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for extra flavor. Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve Carne Guisada
Serving carne guisada can elevate your meal experience. It’s versatile and pairs well with various sides and toppings that enhance its rich flavors.
With Rice
- Serve with fluffy white rice for a classic combination. The rice absorbs the delicious gravy.
In Tacos
- Use warm corn tortillas to create tasty tacos. Just add carne guisada, some chopped onions, and fresh cilantro for a delightful treat.
With Tortillas
- Complement your dish with homemade or store-bought flour tortillas. They are perfect for scooping up the beef and sauce.
On Nachos
- Layer carne guisada over tortilla chips, sprinkle with cheese, and add jalapeños for a flavorful nacho platter.
With Beans
- Pair it with refried beans or black beans. The creaminess of the beans balances the savory beef perfectly.
As a Burrito Filling
- Use carne guisada as a filling for burritos. Add rice, cheese, and veggies for a hearty meal on-the-go.
How to Perfect Carne Guisada
Perfecting carne guisada requires attention to detail and proper cooking techniques. Here are some tips to ensure success:
- Choose the right meat: Chuck steak is ideal because it becomes tender during slow cooking.
- Don’t rush the browning: Take your time to brown the meat well; this adds depth to the flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the overall taste of your dish.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference.
- Let it simmer: Allowing the stew to simmer for a couple of hours makes the meat tender and flavorful.
- Add herbs at the end: Fresh cilantro or parsley added just before serving brightens up the dish.
Best Side Dishes for Carne Guisada
Carne guisada shines when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Mexican Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this rice is a staple that goes perfectly with carne guisada.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness that balances the beef’s flavors.
- Corn Tortillas: Soft or crispy tortillas provide an excellent vehicle for enjoying all that juicy carne guisada.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa make a great appetizer before diving into your main course.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn topped with mayo, cheese, and chili powder adds sweetness and crunch.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can provide freshness that complements the richness of carne guisada.
- Fried Plantains: Sweet plantains bring a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making carne guisada can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:
- Using the wrong cut of meat: Always choose a well-marbled cut like chuck steak for tenderness. Avoid lean cuts as they won’t yield the same rich flavor.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Add onions and peppers at the right time to maintain their texture and flavor. Cooking them too long will make them mushy.
- Skipping seasoning: Seasoning is crucial! Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder to enhance the dish’s overall taste.
- Not allowing enough simmer time: Slow cooking is key for tender meat and rich gravy. Avoid rushing the simmering process; it should last at least 2 hours.
- Neglecting to adjust consistency: If your carne guisada is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more beef broth or water during cooking to keep it saucy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow it to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Carne Guisada
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Label your containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Carne Guisada
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about carne guisada:
What is carne guisada?
Carne guisada is a savory Mexican beef stew made with tender chunks of meat cooked in a flavorful gravy.
Can I use other meats for carne guisada?
Yes, while beef is traditional, you can also use pork or chicken if you prefer different flavors.
How do I know when carne guisada is done?
The dish is ready when the meat is fork-tender and easily falls apart after simmering for about 2 hours.
Can I customize my carne guisada?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Carne guisada is a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its rich flavors and tender meat make it a crowd-pleaser. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices for a personal touch!
Carne Guisada
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of carne guisada, a traditional Mexican beef stew that promises to delight your taste buds. This recipe features tender chunks of chuck steak slowly simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy infused with spices and fresh vegetables. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, carne guisada is not just delicious; it’s also versatile, allowing you to serve it over rice, in tacos, or with warm tortillas. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, this dish is an ideal choice for cooks of all skill levels. Prepare to impress your loved ones with this savory comfort food that will have them coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chuck steak (cubed)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 1 large bell pepper (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 large tomatoes (diced)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 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 sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add cubed chuck steak to the pot, browning it on all sides. Incorporate the chopped bell pepper and cook briefly until softened.
- Mix in the tomato paste and allow it to cook for one minute before adding diced tomatoes.
- Sprinkle flour into the pot and stir well before pouring in beef broth. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to low.
- Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about two hours, stirring occasionally and adding water if necessary.
- Once the meat is tender, serve warm garnished with fresh cilantro.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
