Carne Guisada Recipe

Introduction

Carne Guisada is a savory, hearty stew that combines tender beef, aromatic spices, and a flavorful gravy that will leave your taste buds wanting more. This dish, often associated with Latin American and Tex-Mex cuisine, is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Slow-cooked to perfection, the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the rich sauce takes on deep, robust flavors. Whether you enjoy it over rice, with tortillas, or in a bowl, Carne Guisada offers versatility and a taste of home-style cooking that will warm you from the inside out.

Carne Guisada is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The slow-cooking process allows the beef to absorb the flavors of the seasonings and vegetables, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. The dish is often served for family gatherings, casual dinners, or special occasions. No matter the event, Carne Guisada will always stand out as a favorite among your guests or loved ones.

Why You’ll Love Carne Guisada

• Tender, Flavorful Beef: The slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, absorbing the savory broth and spices.
• Rich, Savory Gravy: The sauce is thick, savory, and packed with flavor from the combination of spices, vegetables, and beef broth. It perfectly complements the beef, making every bite delicious.
• Versatile: Carne Guisada can be served with various side dishes like rice, beans, or tortillas, or even as a filling for tacos or burritos. It’s a perfect dish for any meal.
• Comforting and Hearty: With its deep, rich flavors and tender meat, Carne Guisada is a true comfort food that will fill you up and leave you feeling satisfied.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few ingredients and basic spices, you can make this dish from scratch without any complicated steps, making it a great choice for home cooks of all skill levels.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 4-5g

Ingredients

For the Carne Guisada:

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck roast, brisket, or round, cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups beef broth (or water, if preferred)
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Optional: 1-2 diced potatoes for a heartier dish

Special Equipment

Although Carne Guisada can be made with basic kitchen equipment, a few items will help make the cooking process smoother and more efficient:

1. Dutch Oven or Heavy Pot: A Dutch oven or a large, heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for making Carne Guisada. It helps with even heat distribution and is perfect for slow cooking.
2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for cutting the beef into cubes and chopping the vegetables with precision.
3. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: A sturdy spoon or spatula is ideal for stirring the ingredients and preventing them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
4. Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements of spices and liquids are essential for balancing the flavors of the Carne Guisada sauce.
5. Tongs: Tongs are perfect for browning the beef cubes and turning them in the pot without losing any juices.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

Start by cutting the beef stew meat into 1-inch cubes. For the best results, use a well-marbled cut of beef, such as chuck roast or brisket. These cuts have a good amount of fat that will break down during the cooking process, making the meat tender and flavorful.

2. Brown the Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring the meat is browned on all sides. Browning the meat enhances the flavor and helps seal in the juices. Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Don’t overcrowd the pot; brown the beef in batches if necessary.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using). Sauté the vegetables for 3-5 minutes, or until they soften and begin to turn translucent. This will build the base of flavor for the dish. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.

4. Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Once the vegetables are softened, add the diced tomatoes, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, black pepper, and salt to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and become aromatic. The tomatoes will help create the base of the sauce and add a slight acidity to balance the richness of the beef.

5. Deglaze the Pot

Add 1-2 cups of beef broth to the pot, stirring to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. These bits are full of flavor and will enhance the richness of the sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can also stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste at this point. Let the broth come to a simmer.

6. Return the Beef to the Pot

Once the broth is simmering, return the browned beef to the pot along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Stir everything together and make sure the beef is evenly distributed in the sauce.

7. Slow Cook the Carne Guisada

Cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the Carne Guisada simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent the meat from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you are adding potatoes, you can add them now to cook alongside the beef, or you can add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking for firmer potatoes.

8. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the mixture into the Carne Guisada during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This will thicken the sauce and give it a more gravy-like consistency.

9. Garnish and Serve

Once the Carne Guisada is fully cooked and the beef is tender, remove the pot from the heat. If desired, garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro to add a burst of color and freshness. Serve the Carne Guisada over steamed rice, with warm tortillas, or as a filling for tacos or burritos. The hearty stew can also be enjoyed as a standalone dish with a side of beans or salad.

Tips for Perfect Carne Guisada

• Choose the Right Cut of Beef: For the best results, use a cut of beef with enough marbling to stay tender during the slow-cooking process. Chuck roast, brisket, or round steak work well for Carne Guisada.
• Slow Cooking is Key: The longer you cook the Carne Guisada, the more tender the meat will become. Don’t rush the cooking process; let it simmer gently for the best texture and flavor.
• Adjust the Seasonings: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Add Veggies for Extra Flavor: For a more substantial dish, consider adding diced potatoes, carrots, or even peas. These vegetables will absorb the flavors of the sauce and make the dish even more filling.
• Use Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring a bright, slightly sweet flavor to the Carne Guisada. If you use canned tomatoes, be sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the sauce.

Variations of Carne Guisada

• Carne Guisada with Potatoes: For a heartier meal, add diced potatoes to the dish. The potatoes will absorb the sauce and add a comforting element to the stew.
• Spicy Carne Guisada: If you like things hot, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to increase the heat level of the dish.
• Slow Cooker Carne Guisada: For a more hands-off approach, you can make Carne Guisada in a slow cooker. Simply brown the beef, sauté the vegetables, and then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
• Carne Guisada with Beer: Add a bottle of beer (such as a dark lager or stout) in place of some of the beef broth to add depth and a slight malty flavor to the dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Carne Guisada stores well and can be enjoyed as leftovers. After the dish has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently simmer on the stove or microwave until hot. Carne Guisada also freezes well for longer storage. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To thaw, simply defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Carne Guisada

• Steamed Rice: The rich, savory sauce of Carne Guisada is perfect when served over fluffy, steamed rice. The rice soaks up the sauce, making each bite even more delicious.
• Warm Tortillas: Serve Carne Guisada with soft, warm tortillas to create tacos or burritos. The tortillas add texture and allow you to enjoy the beef and gravy in a handheld form.
• Refried Beans: Pair the Carne Guisada with a side of creamy refried beans for a traditional, comforting meal.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or corn, complement the richness of the Carne Guisada and add a fresh, smoky flavor to the meal.

Print

Conclusion

Carne Guisada is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings together tender beef, a rich gravy, and a medley of spices. Whether served over rice, wrapped in tortillas, or eaten straight from the pot, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. The slow-cooked beef and hearty sauce make it a perfect meal for any occasion, offering both flavor and satisfaction in every bite. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, Carne Guisada is a meal that’s sure to impress every time you make it!