Carne Guisada

Carne Guisada is a comforting dish featuring tender, slow-cooked beef chunks in a rich and flavorful gravy. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress with a delicious meal. With its easy preparation and wonderful flavors, carne guisada is sure to be a hit at your table.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Stew
• For Garnish
• How to Make Carne Guisada
• Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
• Step 2: Brown the Beef
• Step 3: Add Peppers
• Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Tomatoes
• Step 5: Thicken with Flour
• Step 6: Add Seasonings and Broth
• Step 7: Simmer the Stew
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Carne Guisada
• Over Rice
• In Tacos
• With Beans
• On a Salad
• As a Nacho Topping
• In Burritos
• How to Perfect Carne Guisada
• Best Side Dishes for Carne Guisada
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Carne Guisada
• Reheating Carne Guisada
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Carne Guisada?
• Can I use different cuts of beef for Carne Guisada?
• How do I make Carne Guisada spicier?
• What should I serve with Carne Guisada?
• Can I make Carne Guisada in a slow cooker?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Comfort – The combination of spices and slow cooking melds beautifully, creating a deep, satisfying flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve this carne guisada over rice, with warm tortillas, or alongside beans for a complete meal.
• Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create this hearty dish.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – This stew stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent choice for make-ahead meals.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish – With its rich flavor and tender meat, carne guisada is sure to please family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most out of your carne guisada experience, having the right tools on hand can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons and cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for browning meat and simmering the stew evenly.
• Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Chef’s knife – Ensures precise chopping of vegetables for even cooking.

Ingredients

This Carne Guisada recipe features tender, slow-cooked beef chunks simmered in a rich and flavorful gravy. Perfect for serving over rice, with tortillas, or alongside beans, it’s a comforting dish that’s easy to make and sure to please any crowd.

For the Stew

• 2 ½ 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
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 cups beef broth

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Carne Guisada

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot:
1. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the cubed chuck steak to the pot:
1. Cook until browned on all sides.

Step 3: Add Peppers

Stir in the chopped bell peppers:
1. Cook for a couple of minutes until softened.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Tomatoes

Add the tomato paste to the pot:
1. Cook for 1 minute.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Thicken with Flour

Sprinkle flour over the mixture:
1. Stir to combine.
2. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Add Seasonings and Broth

Pour in beef broth:
1. Stir in salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
2. Bring mixture to a boil; then reduce heat to low.

Step 7: Simmer the Stew

Cover the pot:
1. Let carne guisada simmer on low heat for 2 hours while stirring occasionally.
2. Add water as needed to prevent thickening too much.

Step 8: Serve

Once meat is tender:
1. Serve carne guisada warm.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.

How to Serve Carne Guisada

Carne Guisada is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it over rice, wrapped in tortillas, or accompanied by beans, this comforting stew is sure to please everyone at the table.

Over Rice

• Serve the carne guisada over a bed of fluffy white rice for a hearty meal. The gravy seeps into the rice, enhancing every bite.

In Tacos

• Use warm corn or flour tortillas to create delicious tacos filled with carne guisada. Top with diced onions and fresh cilantro for added flavor.

With Beans

• Pair your carne guisada with refried beans or black beans. The creamy texture of the beans complements the stew perfectly.

On a Salad

• For a lighter option, serve carne guisada on a bed of mixed greens. Add avocado slices and lime dressing for freshness.

As a Nacho Topping

• Transform leftover carne guisada into a tasty nacho topping. Layer tortilla chips with carne guisada, cheese, and your favorite toppings like jalapeños and sour cream.

In Burritos

• Wrap carne guisada in large flour tortillas with rice and beans to make satisfying burritos. These are perfect for a filling lunch or dinner.

How to Perfect Carne Guisada

To ensure your carne guisada turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Choose the right cut of beef: Chuck steak is ideal due to its marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness during cooking.
• Sear the meat well: Browning the beef before adding other ingredients enhances the depth of flavor in your dish.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices provide more robust flavors than pre-ground options. Consider using whole spices when possible.
• Let it simmer: A longer cooking time allows flavors to meld and the beef to become tender. Aim for at least two hours on low heat.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking. A pinch of salt or additional spices can elevate your dish significantly.
• Don’t rush cooling: Allowing your carne guisada to cool before storing helps the flavors develop further when reheated.

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Best Side Dishes for Carne Guisada

Carne Guisada pairs wonderfully with many side dishes that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy and flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes an excellent base for carne guisada.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances the spice of carne guisada beautifully.
3. Corn Tortillas: Warm corn tortillas are perfect for scooping up stew or creating tacos.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime brightens up your plate.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa are great as an appetizer or snack alongside your main dish.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the beef stew.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty twist on traditional rice adds freshness that pairs well with the rich flavors of carne guisada.
8. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans are a classic Mexican side that goes hand-in-hand with carne guisada’s hearty goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making carne guisada, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring the Searing Process: Not browning the beef before simmering can lead to less flavor. Always sear the meat in batches to develop a rich taste.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient broth can result in a dry stew. Ensure you add enough beef broth for a moist, flavorful dish.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Adding vegetables too early may make them mushy. Cook them just long enough to maintain their texture and flavor.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Under-seasoning can leave the dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices as needed for balance.
• Neglecting the Simmer Time: Rushing the cooking process can yield tough meat. Allow carne guisada to simmer slowly for two hours for maximum tenderness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store carne guisada in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Freezing Carne Guisada

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Container: Place cooled stew in an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Carne Guisada

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place carne guisada in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carne Guisada?

Carne guisada is a traditional Mexican beef stew known for its tender chunks of beef cooked in a savory gravy with spices and vegetables.

Can I use different cuts of beef for Carne Guisada?

Yes, while chuck steak is ideal due to its tenderness after slow cooking, you can use other cuts like brisket or round if preferred.

How do I make Carne Guisada spicier?

To spice it up, add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños during the cooking process. Adjust according to your heat preference!

What should I serve with Carne Guisada?

Carne guisada pairs well with rice, tortillas, or beans. You can also serve it alongside fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added flavor.

Can I make Carne Guisada in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After sautéing onions and garlic, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

Final Thoughts

This carne guisada recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Try serving it over rice or with warm tortillas for a delightful meal that will impress family and friends!

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