Carne Guisada, a beloved Texan-Mexican comfort food, is a succulent beef stew brimming with rich, savory flavors. This classic dish boasts tender chunks of beef simmered in a deeply flavorful sauce, a harmonious blend of onions, garlic, chilies, and warm spices. Its versatility shines through – serve it with warm tortillas for a satisfying taco filling, alongside fluffy rice and beans for a hearty meal, or even spooned over creamy mashed potatoes for a unique twist. The irresistible aroma alone is enough to draw you in, promising a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine.
This simple yet incredibly rewarding recipe will guide you through each step of creating your own perfect Carne Guisada. From perfectly browning the beef to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, we’ll ensure your guisada is a resounding success. Get ready to experience the magic of this culinary treasure, and prepare for a taste that will transport you straight to the heart of Texas.
Tools Needed
- Large skillet or pan
Ingredients
- Beef stew meat
- Avocado oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1/2 chopped
- Green bell pepper: 1/2 chopped
- Garlic: 3 minced cloves or 3 teaspoons (jarred)
- Flour: 1/4 cup
- Cumin: 1 tbsp
- Oregano: 1/2 tbsp
- Chicken bouillon: 1 tbsp
- Salt
- Pepper
- Jalapeno: 3 slices
- Tomato sauce: 4 tablespoons (small can)
- Beef broth: 3 cups
- Cilantro: 2 tablespoons chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sear the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
- Cut beef stew meat into small bite-sized pieces. If needed, cut larger pieces in half.
- Add 2 tablespoons of avocado oil to a large skillet or pan. Once hot, add beef and brown it, draining off accumulated liquid.
- Add half a chopped onion and cook for about a minute to soften.
- Add half a chopped green bell pepper and mix.
- Add 3 minced garlic cloves (or 3 teaspoons of jarred garlic), stirring until fragrant.
Step 2. Build the Flavor Base
- Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of flour, mix well, and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add 1 tbsp cumin, 1/2 tbsp oregano, 1 tbsp chicken bouillon, salt, pepper, and 3 slices of jalapeno. Mix well.
Step 3. Simmer the Stew
- Pour in 4 tablespoons of tomato sauce and 3 cups of beef broth (or water).
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro.
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 1 1/2 hours (or longer for more tender meat).
Read more: Authentic Charro Beans Recipe: South Texas Style
Tips
- Browning the beef develops rich flavor.
- Draining off the liquid during browning keeps the carne guisada flavorful.
- Chicken bouillon adds depth of flavor despite being in a beef dish.
- Adjust salt, pepper and jalapeno to your preferred taste.
- The longer you cook it, the more tender and flavorful the meat will be.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef for Carne Guisada?
Yes! Chuck roast, beef stew meat, or even flank steak (cut into smaller pieces) work well. Just be sure to choose a cut with some marbling for tenderness.
2. How can I make my Carne Guisada spicier?
Add more chili powder, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or a few slices of jalapeño or serrano pepper to increase the heat. Taste and adjust as you go!
So there you have it – your own delicious batch of Easy Carne Guisada! Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Buen provecho!