Carne Guisada is a tasty beef stew full of flavors. It’s made with tender chunks of beef, savory spices, and juicy tomatoes. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Whenever I make this dish, my kitchen fills with the best smells, making everyone hungry. I love to serve it over rice or with warm tortillas. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This is the star of the dish. Look for chuck or round cuts; they’re rich and tender when slow-cooked. If you want a leaner option, sirloin works too, though it may be less tender.
Onion and Bell Peppers: Onions add sweetness and depth. You can use any color of bell pepper, but I love the mix of red and yellow for a pop of color. If you’re out of bell peppers, try using zucchini or mushrooms for a different twist.
Spices: Cumin and chili powder give a wonderful base flavor. You can swap chili powder for taco seasoning if you have that on hand. If you like heat, add cayenne pepper in small amounts!
Tomato Sauce: This enriches the stew. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, use crushed tomatoes instead. For richness, a bit of tomato paste can enhance the flavor too.
How Do I Cook the Beef to Be Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking the beef properly is crucial. Browning the meat helps lock in flavors and adds depth. Here’s how to do it right:
- Before cooking, pat the beef dry with paper towels; moisture can prevent browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook it in batches to ensure even browning.
- After browning, let the beef rest before adding it back to the pot. This keeps it juicy.
Remember, slow cooking is key! Aim for low and slow to let the meat become tender and soak up all those delicious spices.
How to Make Carne Guisada
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 orange or yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Carne Guisada will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then about 1.5 to 2 hours to simmer. So, set aside around 2.5 hours for this dish. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful and tender the beef will become!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. While the oil heats up, coat the beef cubes evenly with flour, salt, and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, until they soften and the onions become translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until you can smell the lovely aroma!
3. Mixing in the Spices:
Now, it’s time to bring back the beef! Return the browned cubes to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and a bit more salt and pepper. Stir everything together so the beef and vegetables are well coated with the spices.
4. Adding the Liquids:
Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once bubbling gently, lower the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.
5. Final Touches:
After simmering, check the beef to make sure it’s tender. Adjust the seasonings with more salt and pepper if needed. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro—this adds a nice pop of color and flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Carne Guisada hot, alongside white rice, warm tortillas, or your favorite beans. Enjoy this warm, hearty, and flavorful dish!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While stew meat is ideal for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use chuck roast or brisket. Just make sure to cut it into 1-inch cubes for even cooking!
Can I Make Carne Guisada in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
What Can I Serve With Carne Guisada?
This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, warm tortillas, or beans. You can also serve it alongside mashed potatoes or over a bed of quinoa for a healthier option!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!
