Carne Guisada

This Carne Guisada recipe is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. Featuring tender beef chunks slow-cooked in a rich, savory gravy, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Whether served over rice, with warm tortillas, or alongside beans, this dish is sure to satisfy every palate. The unique blend of spices creates a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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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
• With Tortillas
• Alongside Beans
• Topped with Cilantro
• With Avocado Slices
• As a Taco Filling
• 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 spicy?
• Can I use other meats for Carne Guisada?
• What should I serve with Carne Guisada?
• How do I thicken Carne Guisada?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and slow cooking infuses the beef with incredible taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, in tacos, or with sides like beans and salads.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this dish accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Great for leftovers and can be stored or frozen for later enjoyment.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking Carne Guisada easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious stew.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron pot or heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron pot: Retains heat well, ensuring even cooking and deep flavor development.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while preventing burns from hot surfaces.

Ingredients

For this flavorful Carne Guisada, you will need:

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, add the chopped onions.
* Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
* Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

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

Step 3: Add Peppers

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

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Tomatoes

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

Step 5: Thicken with Flour

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

Step 6: Add Seasonings and Broth

Pour in beef broth and stir in seasonings (salt, black pepper, cumin, chili powder).
* Bring mixture to a boil.
* Reduce heat to low.

Step 7: Simmer the Stew

Cover the pot and let carne guisada simmer on low heat for 2 hours.
* Stir occasionally.
* Add water as needed to keep from thickening too much.

Step 8: Serve

Once meat is tender, serve carne guisada warm.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.

How to Serve Carne Guisada

Carne guisada is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. Whether you prefer it over rice or wrapped in tortillas, there are several serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the carne guisada over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal. The gravy soaks into the rice, adding flavor.

With Tortillas

• Warm up corn or flour tortillas and use them to wrap the carne guisada. This makes for a delightful hand-held meal that’s perfect for gatherings.

Alongside Beans

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

Topped with Cilantro

• Garnish your carne guisada with fresh chopped cilantro for an added burst of flavor and color. It brightens up the dish instantly.

With Avocado Slices

• Add slices of ripe avocado on the side or on top of your carne guisada. This provides a creamy contrast to the savory beef.

As a Taco Filling

• Use carne guisada as a filling for tacos. Top with diced onions and salsa for a perfect taco night treat.

How to Perfect Carne Guisada

To make sure your carne guisada turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use quality meat: Choose a well-marbled chuck steak for tender results. The fat adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy during cooking.
• Brown the meat well: Make sure to brown the beef thoroughly before simmering. This step enhances flavor through caramelization.
• Let it simmer low and slow: Cooking at low heat for an extended period allows all flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich, flavorful stew.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your carne guisada as it cooks and adjust seasonings as needed. Every palate is different, so don’t hesitate to add more salt or spices.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables like carrots or potatoes for added nutrition and texture.
• Rest before serving: Letting the stew sit for about 10-15 minutes after cooking helps deepen the flavors even more.

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Best Side Dishes for Carne Guisada

Carne guisada pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices that adds a colorful, flavorful base to your meal.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a comforting element that balances the robust meat stew.
3. Guacamole: A fresh avocado dip adds creaminess and zest, making it an ideal accompaniment.
4. Corn Elote: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder offers a sweet crunch alongside savory beef.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crisp tortilla chips served with fresh salsa create a vibrant starter that’s hard to resist.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled veggies add brightness and texture, perfectly complementing carne guisada’s richness.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty twist on traditional rice that enhances every bite of your hearty stew.
8. Queso Fresco Salad: A light salad topped with crumbled queso fresco brings freshness to balance out the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making carne guisada, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Bold Use of Low-Quality Meat: Using low-quality or tough cuts of beef can lead to a chewy texture. Always opt for well-marbled chuck steak for tender results.
• Bold Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the meat properly can result in less flavor. Take the time to sear the beef on all sides before adding other ingredients.
• Bold Ignoring Seasoning Balance: Under-seasoning your carne guisada can make it bland. Taste as you go, adjusting salt and spices to achieve a flavorful dish.
• Bold Overcooking or Undercooking: Cooking the stew for too long or not enough can affect tenderness. Aim for the recommended 2 hours of simmering for perfect results.
• Bold Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold broth or ingredients can lower the pot’s temperature, affecting cooking time. Always use room-temperature ingredients when possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing Carne Guisada

• Transfer cooled stew to airtight containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Carne Guisada

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (20 seconds), stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until fully heated.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carne Guisada?

Carne guisada is a traditional Mexican beef stew made with tender chunks of meat simmered in a rich gravy.

How do I make Carne Guisada more spicy?

To add spice, incorporate additional chili powder or diced jalapeños during cooking. Adjust according to your heat preference.

Can I use other meats for Carne Guisada?

Yes! While beef is traditional, you can use chicken or pork as alternatives, adjusting cooking times as necessary.

What should I serve with Carne Guisada?

Carne guisada pairs beautifully with rice, tortillas, or beans. Choose your favorite side dishes to complement this hearty meal.

How do I thicken Carne Guisada?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

This carne guisada recipe offers comfort and flavor that will delight your family and friends. Its versatility allows for customization with various spices and sides. Give it a try and make it your own!