Carne Guisada

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with flavor: A combination of spices, tender beef, and savory vegetables creates an irresistible taste.

• Easy to make: With simple ingredients, this dish is straightforward to prepare.

• Customizable: Adjust the spice level and vegetables to suit your taste.

• Meal prep friendly: Ideal for storing and reheating, making for delicious meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 ½ tablespoons oil (vegetable, canola, or any neutral oil)

• 2 pounds chuck steak (cubed into bite-sized pieces)

• 1 large onion (chopped)

• 1 large bell pepper (chopped)

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 2 large tomatoes (diced)

• 2 cups beef broth

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

Directions

1. Heat 2 ½ tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

3. Add cubed beef and cook until browned, about 6-7 minutes.

4. Stir in the bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes.

5. Add tomato paste and diced tomatoes, simmer for 2-3 minutes.

6. Sprinkle flour and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.

7. Add beef broth, salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat.

8. Simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Adjust the consistency with water or broth as needed.

9. Serve garnished with cilantro and paired with rice or tortillas.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 2 hours

Variations

• Spicy: Add more chili powder or fresh chilies for an extra kick.

• Vegetables: Include additional vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or peas for a heartier dish.

• Slow Cooker: For a more hands-off approach, transfer everything to a slow cooker after browning the meat, and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to adjust consistency. It can also be reheated in the microwave.

FAQs

How do I make Carne Guisada less spicy?

To reduce the spice, use less chili powder or omit it entirely. You can also balance the heat with a dollop of sour cream or crema.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can substitute chuck steak with stew meat or brisket, but chuck steak offers the best flavor and tenderness for slow cooking.

Can I make Carne Guisada in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a tender, flavorful dish.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, stir in a little more flour or let it simmer uncovered for longer to reduce and thicken.

What do I serve Carne Guisada with?

Pair it with rice, warm tortillas, or even use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. It’s also great with beans or a side of guacamole.

Can I freeze Carne Guisada?

Yes, store the cooled stew in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I make Carne Guisada spicier?

Add more chili powder or incorporate fresh jalapeños or other hot peppers to increase the heat level.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

While this recipe is traditionally made with beef, chicken can be substituted. It will change the flavor but still work well in the stew.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and peas can be added to the stew for extra flavor and texture.

How can I make Carne Guisada gluten-free?

Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

Conclusion

Carne Guisada is a deliciously comforting stew that’s full of flavor and perfect for any meal. Whether you enjoy it with rice, tortillas, or as a filling for tacos, this hearty dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for meal prepping, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Carne Guisada

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• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Carne Guisada is a savory, tender Mexican beef stew made with chuck steak, aromatic vegetables, and a rich gravy. This comforting dish is seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and other spices, creating a flavorful, hearty meal. Perfect with rice, tortillas, or as taco or burrito filling, Carne Guisada is an easy-to-make, customizable recipe that’s ideal for meal prep.

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Ingredients

2 ½ tablespoons oil (vegetable, canola, or any neutral oil)

2 pounds chuck steak (cubed into bite-sized pieces)

1 large onion (chopped)

1 large bell pepper (chopped)

3 cloves garlic (minced)

1 tablespoon tomato paste

2 large tomatoes (diced)

2 cups beef broth

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

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Instructions

• Heat 2 ½ tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.

• Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

• Add cubed beef and cook until browned, about 6-7 minutes.

• Stir in bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes.

• Add tomato paste and diced tomatoes, simmer for 2-3 minutes.

• Sprinkle flour and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.

• Add beef broth, salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat.

• Simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Adjust consistency with water or broth as needed.

• Serve garnished with cilantro and paired with rice or tortillas.

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Notes

• For a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh chilies.

• Customize the vegetables by adding potatoes, carrots, or peas for more texture.

• For a hands-off approach, you can also make this dish in a slow cooker by transferring the ingredients after browning the beef and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.