Carne Guisada is a comforting dish made with tender beef, simmered in a flavorful sauce of tomatoes, onions, and spices. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners!
This hearty stew fills up your kitchen with mouthwatering smells. I love serving it with rice or warm tortillas—who can resist scooping it up? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef stew meat: Choose cuts like chuck or round for tenderness. You can substitute with pork or chicken for a different flavor. If you’re going for a lighter option, consider using turkey or any well-cooked meat you have on hand.
Vegetable oil: This helps in browning the meat. You can use olive oil or canola oil if you prefer. For extra flavor, try using coconut oil or ghee instead.
Onion: A large yellow onion works best. If you don’t have any, shallots or white onions are good alternatives. For a milder taste, consider using green onions.
Bell pepper: Red, green, or yellow are all great. You could swap it with poblano or jalapeño for a little heat too. If you want a milder flavor, leave it out entirely.
Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes both work. If tomatoes aren’t available, you can use tomato sauce or puree, but reduce the amount of liquid slightly.
How Do I Get the Beef Tender?
To ensure your beef is tender, browning the meat properly is key. This adds depth of flavor and locks in juiciness. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Use high heat to brown the beef cubes in batches. Don’t overcrowd the skillet to avoid steaming.
- After browning, let the meat sit and cool down slightly before stirring it back in with the other ingredients.
- Cook the stew low and slow—this will break down the tough fibers in the meat and make it tender.
Lastly, give it enough time to simmer! The longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld together.
How to Make Carne Guisada
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or green)
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped or 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon 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)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Carne Guisada takes about 15 minutes to prep and 1.5 to 2 hours to cook. The long simmering time is crucial for getting that tender beef and flavorful sauce. So, get cozy and relax while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil and Brown the Beef:
In a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned beef and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for around 3-4 minutes until they become soft. This adds great flavor to your dish!
3. Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook it for another minute until it’s nice and fragrant. Then, stir in the chopped tomatoes or crushed tomatoes, plus the tomato paste. Cook this mixture for 3-4 minutes until it thickens a little.
4. Combine and Season:
Put the browned beef back into the pot and pour in the beef broth or water. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine it well.
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is super tender and the sauce is thick. Don’t forget to check on it occasionally!
6. Final Touches:
Once it’s done, taste it and adjust the seasonings if needed. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before you dig in.
7. Serve it Up:
Enjoy your hearty Carne Guisada hot with some fluffy rice, fresh warm tortillas, or crusty bread. It’s a perfect meal for sharing!
Enjoy making and savoring this comforting Carne Guisada!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Beef for Carne Guisada?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is ideal, you can also use cuts like chuck roast or brisket for a rich flavor. Just ensure they are well-trimmed and cut into manageable pieces for even cooking.
Can I Make Carne Guisada in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! To adapt the recipe for a slow cooker, brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as instructed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 4 hours until the beef is tender.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
You can freeze Carne Guisada for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
What Should I Serve with Carne Guisada?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, warm tortillas, or mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a fresh salad or with roasted vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal.