Carne Guisada is a hearty beef stew that’s both comforting and full of flavor. With tender chunks of beef cooked in a rich sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy meal.
This dish is best served with rice or warm tortillas. I love how it gets better as it sits, so leftovers always taste amazing the next day. Who doesn’t appreciate a meal that does all the work for you? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cuts well for slow cooking and becomes incredibly tender. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use sirloin or a brisket cut. Just know they may cook a bit differently and need less cooking time.
Vegetable Oil: This is used for browning the meat. You can substitute with olive oil, canola, or grapeseed oil, but avoid using strong oils like coconut as they may alter the dish’s flavor.
Onion and Bell Pepper: They provide great flavor. If you’re out of bell peppers, you can use any sweet pepper, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat. Red onions can also be swapped for regular ones for a slightly sweeter taste.
Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder are key for flavor. For a different twist, try using taco seasoning instead, or if you like it spicy, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper.
Beef Broth: Homemade is best if you have it, but any low-sodium store-bought version works. You can replace it with vegetable broth for a lighter option, or even red wine for a richer flavor!
How Do I Make Sure My Beef is Tender?
To get that tender melt-in-your-mouth beef, you must cook it slowly and at low heat. Browning the beef first adds flavor, but the real magic happens during the slow simmering. Here’s how:
- Always sear the beef in batches. This keeps the temperature hot and helps caramelize the meat.
- Once all meat is in, keep the heat low and cover it while it simmers. This traps moisture and softens the meat.
- Patience is key! Let it cook for at least 1.5 to 2 hours.
- If it’s falling apart easily when you check it, you know you’re golden. Tender beef is what you’re after!
By following these tips and techniques, you’re set up for a delicious Carne Guisada that everyone will love! Happy cooking!
How to Make Carne Guisada
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
For the Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Sauce:
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional)
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Warm flour tortillas or rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Carne Guisada recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep, plus 1.5 to 2 hours for cooking. The long, slow simmer is what makes the beef tender and the flavors rich. Give yourself about 2 hours and 15 minutes in total, and don’t forget to savor the delicious smells along the way!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, season your beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the remaining oil, add the chopped onions, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for about 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften and the onions turn translucent. This step adds a ton of flavor to your guisada!
3. Mixing in the Spices:
Now, stir in the all-purpose flour, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, and dried oregano. Cook this mixture for another 1-2 minutes over medium heat to help toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
4. Creating the Sauce:
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to combine. Make sure to scrape up any delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Return the browned beef to the pan along with the chopped carrots and diced tomatoes, if you’re using them.
5. Cooking the Guisada:
Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover your pot. Let the Carne Guisada cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and enjoy the amazing aroma filling your kitchen. The beef should be fork-tender by the end of the cooking time.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once the beef is tender, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. To serve, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of freshness, and enjoy it hot with warm tortillas or over a bed of rice!
Enjoy the rich and tender Carne Guisada, perfect for a cozy, comforting meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for Carne Guisada?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can use cuts like sirloin or brisket. Just keep in mind that they might require less cooking time, so check for tenderness accordingly!
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! To amp up the heat, add more chili powder or incorporate some cayenne pepper. You can also toss in some chopped jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare Carne Guisada Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make it a day in advance and it will taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What Should I Serve with Carne Guisada?
This dish is traditionally served with warm flour tortillas or rice, but it’s also fantastic over mashed potatoes or with a side of black beans. Add a simple salad to round out the meal!