Oh, let me tell you about Carne Guisada! This hearty, savory stew is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Tender beef simmered to perfection with a medley of spices, bell peppers, and onions creates a flavor explosion that’ll have you coming back for seconds. And the best part? You can whip it up with simple ingredients like beef broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar for that tangy kick. Serve it over fluffy rice or with warm tortillas, and you’ve got a meal that feels like home. Yum!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Trust me, you’re going to love the rich, savory flavors!
- This one’s a game-changer for cozy family dinners.
- It’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
- Perfect for meal prep—enjoy it all week long!
- Kid-approved and sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Latin American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 2 hours |
| Total Time: | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4-6 people |
| Best Served: | With rice or tortillas |
Ingredients
- Beef chuck – ideal for slow cooking, tenderizes beautifully.
- Olive oil – for browning the meat and adding flavor.
- Onion – adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Garlic – enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Bell peppers – adds color and a slight sweetness.
- Tomatoes – provides acidity and richness to the sauce.
- Beef broth – a flavorful base for the stew; use low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
- Bay leaves – infuses a subtle herbal aroma.
- Cumin – adds warmth and earthiness to the dish.
- Oregano – complements the other spices with its aromatic flavor.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors; adjust to taste.
- Pepper – adds a touch of heat; use freshly ground for best flavor.
- Potatoes – makes the dish heartier and adds texture.
- Carrots – adds sweetness and color to the stew.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to dive into the delicious world of Carne Guisada with these easy steps!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 2 pounds of beef stew meat, 1 large onion (chopped), 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 2 bell peppers (chopped), 1 can of diced tomatoes, 2 cups of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and sear until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush it; let that flavor develop!
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers. Stir everything together and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies soften and become fragrant.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the beef and veggies with those lovely spices. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
Step 5: Pour in the Tomatoes and Broth
Add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) and the beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom.
Step 6: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This is where the magic happens—let those flavors meld together!
Step 7: Check for Tenderness
After the simmering time, check the beef. It should be fork-tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. If it’s not quite there, give it a little more time.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once your Carne Guisada is ready, serve it hot over rice, with tortillas, or alongside your favorite sides. Dig in and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
• Use beef chuck for tender, flavorful meat that breaks down beautifully.
• Marinate the meat overnight in a mix of lime juice and garlic for extra flavor.
• Sear the meat in batches to achieve a nice caramelization without overcrowding the pan.
• Add a splash of beef broth instead of wine for depth without the alcohol.
• Let the stew simmer low and slow for at least two hours for the best results.
How to Serve
- Serve Carne Guisada over a bed of fluffy white rice for a classic combo.
- Pair it with warm, homemade tortillas for a delightful wrap.
- Add a side of black beans for a hearty, protein-packed meal.
- Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
- For a twist, try it in a taco with avocado and salsa.
- Enjoy with cornbread for a comforting Southern touch.
- Offer a side of sautéed vegetables for added color and nutrition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Carne Guisada is a fantastic dish to make ahead and enjoy later. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers properly.
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the Carne Guisada to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container for best results.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Portion the Carne Guisada into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal quality.
Reheating
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
• Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
FAQs
What can I use instead of wine in Carne Guisada?
Using beef broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar can add depth to your Carne Guisada without the use of wine. These substitutes enhance the flavor while keeping the dish family-friendly.
Can I make Carne Guisada in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just brown the meat and then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for tender, flavorful results that require minimal effort.
What sides pair well with Carne Guisada?
Carne Guisada pairs beautifully with rice, tortillas, or even mashed potatoes. These sides soak up the delicious gravy and complement the dish perfectly.
How do I store leftovers of Carne Guisada?
Let the Carne Guisada cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage, making it a great meal prep option!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—Carne Guisada, the ultimate comfort food that warms the heart and fills the belly! This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience waiting to happen. So gather your loved ones, savor the rich flavors, and enjoy the simple joy of cooking. You’ll find that every bite is a hug from the inside. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!
Carne Guisada
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Collect all the ingredients listed above.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies soften.
- Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the beef and veggies.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes and the beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- After simmering, check the beef. It should be fork-tender. If not, give it more time.
- Serve hot over rice, with tortillas, or alongside your favorite sides.