Carne Guisada

This Carne Guisada recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, featuring tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich gravy. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this comforting dish pairs beautifully with rice, tortillas, or beans. Its depth of flavor and ease of preparation make it a standout choice for both special occasions and weeknight meals.

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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
• In Tacos
• As a Burrito Filling
• With Salad
• 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?
• Can I use different cuts of meat?
• How do I serve Carne Guisada?
• Can I make Carne Guisada in a slow cooker?
• Is Carne Guisada gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Comfort Food: The slow-cooked beef combined with spices creates a savory dish that warms the soul.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal hands-on time, you can enjoy this delicious meal without stress.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with warm tortillas, or alongside your favorite beans for endless possibilities.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: This recipe yields generous portions, making it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and store for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here are the essentials you’ll need to make Carne Guisada.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for browning the meat and simmering the stew evenly.
• Cutting board: Keeps your workspace organized while chopping vegetables safely.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts for even cooking and presentation.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

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:
1. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add cubed chuck steak to the pot:
1. Cook until browned on all sides, ensuring a rich flavor base for your Carne Guisada.

Step 3: Add Peppers

Stir in chopped bell peppers:
1. Cook for a couple of minutes until softened.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Tomatoes

Add tomato paste to the mixture:
1. Cook for 1 minute before stirring in diced tomatoes.
2. Allow to cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Thicken with Flour

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

Step 6: Add Seasonings and Broth

Pour in beef broth:
1. Stir in salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
2. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to low.

Step 7: Simmer the Stew

Cover the pot:
1. Let Carne Guisada simmer on low heat for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
2. Add water as needed to prevent thickening too much.

Step 8: Serve

Once meat is tender:
1. Serve warm garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your delicious Carne Guisada!

How to Serve Carne Guisada

Carne Guisada is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the carne guisada over a bed of fluffy white rice for a hearty and comforting option. The gravy seeps into the rice, making every bite flavorful.

With Tortillas

• Pair carne guisada with warm corn or flour tortillas for an authentic touch. Use the tortillas to scoop up the meat, creating a delightful handheld meal.

Alongside Beans

• Add refried beans or black beans as a side dish. The creamy texture complements the rich flavors of the carne guisada and adds extra protein.

In Tacos

• Fill soft or crunchy taco shells with carne guisada for a fun twist. Top with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for freshness.

As a Burrito Filling

• Use carne guisada as a filling for burritos. Wrap it up with rice, beans, and cheese for a satisfying meal on the go.

With Salad

• Serve carne guisada alongside a fresh salad for balance. A simple green salad with avocado and lime dressing pairs wonderfully with this dish.

How to Perfect Carne Guisada

To achieve the best carne guisada, follow these essential tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Choose the right cut of beef: Opt for chuck steak or brisket, as these cuts become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
• Sear the meat properly: Browning the beef before simmering adds depth to the gravy. Make sure to cook until it’s nicely browned on all sides.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and tomatoes enhance the overall taste of your carne guisada. Avoid canned tomatoes if possible.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust spices throughout cooking. Don’t hesitate to add more salt or spices according to your preference.
• Simmer low and slow: Allow enough time for simmering; two hours ensures that the beef becomes tender and absorbs all flavors.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let your carne guisada sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

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Best Side Dishes for Carne Guisada

Pairing carne guisada with perfect side dishes can elevate your dining experience even further. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice
   A flavorful rice dish cooked with tomatoes, spices, and peas that complements the savory meat perfectly.
2. Guacamole
   Creamy avocado dip mixed with lime juice and cilantro adds freshness to balance out the richness of carne guisada.
3. Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
   Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice offers a deliciously sweet contrast.
4. Pico de Gallo
   A fresh salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños brings brightness and crunch alongside the stew.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Fluffy rice tossed with lime juice and chopped cilantro provides zesty flavors that pair well with rich meats.
6. Fried Plantains
   Sweet fried plantains offer a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully against savory carne guisada flavors.
7. Chips & Salsa
   Crunchy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa make for an excellent appetizer or snack before diving into your main course.
8. Refried Beans
   Creamy refried beans serve as both a side dish and an excellent topping option for tacos filled with carne guisada.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making carne guisada, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the onions and garlic can lead to a bland dish. Always take the time to cook them until fragrant.
• Rushing the Browning Process: If you don’t brown the beef properly, it won’t develop rich flavors. Make sure to brown each piece on all sides.
• Neglecting Seasonings: Forgetting to add seasonings can result in a flat taste. Use salt, cumin, and chili powder generously for depth.
• Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time: Carne guisada needs time to tenderize. Avoid cutting down the simmering time; aim for at least two hours.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too much meat at once can lower the temperature and prevent browning. Cook in batches if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for freshness.
• Consume within 1 week for best taste.

Freezing Carne Guisada

• Place cooled carne guisada in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Carne Guisada

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring frequently until evenly heated.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carne Guisada?

Carne guisada is a traditional Mexican stew made with beef, vegetables, and spices. It’s known for its rich and savory gravy.

Can I use different cuts of meat?

Yes, while chuck steak is preferred for tenderness, you can use other cuts like brisket or round steak if needed.

How do I serve Carne Guisada?

Carne guisada pairs well with rice, tortillas, or beans. You can also enjoy it with fresh cilantro as a garnish.

Can I make Carne Guisada in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After sautéing your ingredients, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Is Carne Guisada gluten-free?

To make carne guisada gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Final Thoughts

This carne guisada recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Whether served over rice or with tortillas, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!