Carne Guisada is a tasty beef stew that’s perfect for any meal! It’s made with juicy beef chunks, spicy peppers, and flavorful spices that make every bite delicious and warming.
This dish is a hug in a bowl! I love serving it over rice or with warm tortillas for a cozy dinner. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy for chilly nights! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This is the heart of carne guisada. It’s tender and flavorful when cooked slowly. If you can’t find beef chuck, try using beef brisket or round steak as a substitute; they work well, too.
Vegetable Oil: For frying the beef, vegetable oil is a good neutral choice. You could also use olive oil or canola oil. If you prefer a different flavor, avocado oil is a great option!
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture. However, you can use Russet or red potatoes. If you’re avoiding carbs, try using cauliflower instead for a low-carb option!
Spices: Ground cumin is a key flavor here. If you want to change it up, try smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a unique twist. Adjust the spice levels by adding more or less chili powder to taste!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Tender Beef in Carne Guisada?
Tender beef is crucial for a great carne guisada. It takes time and low, slow cooking to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Here’s how:
- Start by browning the beef cubes in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pot, or they won’t sear properly.
- After browning, deglaze the pot with the broth to lift those flavorful bits stuck on the bottom.
- Simmer the beef gently for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender. The low heat breaks down the tough fibers in the meat.
- For best results, check the beef towards the end of cooking. It should be fork-tender before you add the vegetables.
Enjoy your cooking time, and savor every bite of this delicious comfort food! 😊
Carne Guisada
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Beef: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Oil: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 to 2 jalapeño peppers, sliced (for garnish and mild heat)
- Liquids: 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- Spices: 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Sliced avocado, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Carne Guisada takes about 20 minutes to prep and around 2 hours to cook, which includes simmering time to make sure the beef is tender and flavors meld together beautifully. So grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to crowd the pot, so they can brown nicely on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
2. Soften the Vegetables:
In the same pot, toss in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The aroma will be fantastic!
3. Combine and Season:
Now, return the browned beef to the pot. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well, ensuring every piece of meat and vegetable is coated with those wonderful spices.
4. Add Liquids and Simmer:
Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours. This will allow the beef to become tender and soak up all the flavors.
5. Add Vegetables:
After the beef has simmered, add the potatoes and carrots to the pot. Continue simmering uncovered for another 30 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and the sauce is thick to your liking.
6. Final Taste Check:
Before serving, give it a taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Adjust the spices to your preference for that perfect flavor.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Dish up the carne guisada hot, over a bed of white rice, or alongside it. Garnish each bowl with jalapeño slices and freshly chopped cilantro. Don’t forget a slice of avocado for a creamy touch!
Enjoy a hearty, comforting plate of classic Carne Guisada! Pairs perfectly with tortillas or crusty bread for a delightful meal! 😊
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal due to its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use brisket or round steak as alternatives. Just ensure they are cut into equal-sized pieces for even cooking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months! Just allow to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! If you prefer more heat, you can add extra jalapeños or even toss in some diced serrano peppers during cooking. Adjust the chili powder to your taste for an extra kick!
What Can I Serve with Carne Guisada?
This dish is fantastic served over rice or with warm flour or corn tortillas. You can also pair it with a side salad or guacamole for added freshness!
