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! This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply enjoying a comforting meal at home. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, carne guisada is guaranteed to be a hit on any occasion.

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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 Carne Guisada
• How to Make Carne Guisada
• Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
• Step 2: Heat Oil and Sauté Vegetables
• Step 3: Brown the Meat
• Step 4: Add Tomato Paste and Fresh Tomatoes
• Step 5: Thicken with Flour and Add Broth
• Step 6: Simmer to Perfection
• Step 7: Serve Your Delicious Carne Guisada
• How to Serve Carne Guisada
• With Rice
• In Tacos
• With Tortillas
• Garnished with Cilantro
• With Beans
• On Nachos
• 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?
• How do I make carne guisada more flavorful?
• Can I use other cuts of meat for carne guisada?
• What should I serve with carne guisada?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor – The combination of spices and slow cooking creates a savory taste that will impress your guests.
• Easy Preparation – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can make this delicious meal.
• Versatile Usage – Serve it over rice, in tacos, or with warm tortillas for different dining experiences.
• Perfect for Leftovers – Carne guisada tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
• Family-Friendly – This hearty dish appeals to both adults and kids alike, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect carne guisada, some essential tools will help streamline your cooking process. Having the right equipment not only makes cooking easier but also enhances the final dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons and cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for slow cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Sharp knife – Ensures easy chopping of vegetables and meat, saving you time during preparation.
• Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients.

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: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your vegetables and cube the meat so everything is ready to go when you start cooking.

Step 2: Heat Oil and Sauté Vegetables

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot:
Add chopped onions and cook until they become translucent.
Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Add the cubed chuck steak to the pot:
Cook until browned on all sides.
Then add chopped bell peppers and cook for another couple of minutes until softened.

Step 4: Add Tomato Paste and Fresh Tomatoes

Stir in the tomato paste:
Cook for about one minute before adding diced tomatoes.
Allow everything to cook together for a few minutes.

Step 5: Thicken with Flour and Add Broth

Sprinkle flour into the mixture:
Cook briefly until heated through.
Pour in beef broth along with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring it to a boil before reducing heat to low.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

Cover your pot:
Let the stew simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Check occasionally if more liquid is needed to keep it from thickening too much.

Step 7: Serve Your Delicious Carne Guisada

Once the meat is tender:
Serve warm garnished with chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor!

Enjoy this authentic carne guisada as part of a hearty meal that brings family together!

How to Serve Carne Guisada

Carne guisada is a versatile and hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it on its own or as part of a larger meal, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Rice

• Serve carne guisada over a bed of fluffy white rice to soak up the savory gravy. This classic combination makes for a filling meal.

In Tacos

• Use corn or flour tortillas to create delicious tacos filled with carne guisada. Top with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for added zest.

With Tortillas

• Warm up some soft tortillas and serve them alongside the carne guisada. They’re perfect for scooping up the tender beef and flavorful sauce.

Garnished with Cilantro

• Enhance the presentation by garnishing your carne guisada with freshly chopped cilantro. It adds color and a fresh flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

With Beans

• Pair carne guisada with refried beans or black beans for extra protein and fiber. This combination is not only hearty but also satisfying.

On Nachos

• For a fun twist, load tortilla chips with carne guisada, cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings to create indulgent nachos perfect for sharing.

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How to Perfect Carne Guisada

To achieve the most tender and flavorful carne guisada, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose quality meat: Selecting a well-marbled chuck steak ensures tenderness and flavor as it cooks slowly.
• Sear properly: Browning the meat before adding other ingredients creates depth in flavor through caramelization.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables like onions, garlic, and peppers enhance the taste of your stew significantly.
• Simmer long enough: Allowing the dish to simmer for at least two hours helps break down tough fibers in the beef, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices as necessary during cooking to suit your palate.
• Let it rest: Allowing carne guisada to sit after cooking allows flavors to meld together even more before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Carne Guisada

Carne guisada pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes an ideal base for soaking up the savory sauce of carne guisada.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a delicious contrast and add extra protein to your meal.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful texture contrast while balancing out the savory notes of the beef.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled vegetables add freshness and crunch to your plate, which pairs well with rich stews.
5. Guacamole: A smooth avocado dip brings creaminess that enhances each bite of carne guisada.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a great appetizer before diving into your carne guisada main course.
7. Salad: A light salad with citrus dressing can refresh your palate between bites of hearty beef stew.
8. Plantains: Sweet fried plantains contrast nicely with savory dishes like carne guisada, providing an interesting balance of flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making carne guisada can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Browning the meat adds depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step; ensure the beef is well-browned before moving on.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: If you cook the onions and peppers too long, they may lose their texture. Sauté just until tender for the best results.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season adequately can lead to bland carne guisada. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings along the way.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: If you don’t add enough broth, the dish may dry out. Always ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot for a rich gravy.
• Skipping Garnishes: Garnishing with fresh cilantro or lime can enhance flavor dramatically. Don’t skip this step for a fresh finish!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Carne guisada will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Carne Guisada

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty plastic bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Carne Guisada

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place carne guisada in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

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 meat slow-cooked in a savory gravy.

How do I make carne guisada more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, consider adding spices such as oregano or bay leaves. Cooking low and slow also helps develop richer flavors.

Can I use other cuts of meat for carne guisada?

Yes! Cuts like brisket or round steak can work well too. Just ensure they are cooked until tender.

What should I serve with carne guisada?

Carne guisada pairs beautifully with rice, tortillas, or beans for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This carne guisada recipe offers comfort and warmth, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s versatile and allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste. Whether you enjoy it with rice or tortillas, this dish is sure to impress your loved ones!