Carne Guisada Recipe

If you’re craving classic comfort food that’s full of flavor, you have to try Carne Guisada! This hearty Tex-Mex beef stew is simmered until melt-in-your-mouth tender, wrapped in a rich, savory gravy that will have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s pure cozy goodness, and trust me—this is a recipe you’ll make on repeat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There isn’t much fuss with Carne Guisada—the magic happens when simple, everyday ingredients slowly meld together. Each one plays an important role, from the juicy beef to the zesty spices and the aromatic veggies, creating that signature rich gravy and unforgettable taste.

• Olive oil or vegetable oil: Helps brown the beef, creating a flavorful caramelized crust, and softens the vegetables.
• Stew meat: Go for good-quality chuck or round, cut into small 1-inch cubes—this ensures ultra-tender, fall-apart bites!
• Onion: A large onion (or two small ones) adds sweetness and savory depth to every spoonful.
• Green bell pepper: Adds fresh flavor and gentle sweetness, plus that gorgeous pop of color.
• Garlic: Four cloves may seem bold, but they mellow out as they cook, infusing the stew with irresistible aroma.
• Roma tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes bring juiciness and a touch of acidity to balance the rich gravy.
• Salt & black pepper: The foundation of savory flavor—add more to taste at the end if needed.
• Ground cumin: Earthy and aromatic, cumin is essential for that authentic tex-mex character.
• Chili powder: Delivers mild warmth and beautiful red color without making things too spicy.
• Tomato paste: Gives the gravy body and a deep, concentrated tomato richness.
• Beef bouillon cube: Intensifies the background beefy flavor—just crumble it in for umami heaven.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy as it simmers, making it wonderfully scoopable and silky.
• Beef broth: Use low-sodium so you have total control over salt—add extra if you love lots of gravy!
• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle on top at the end brings brightness and that classic finishing touch.

Variations

One of the best things about Carne Guisada is how easy it is to make your own. Don’t be afraid to switch it up with what you have on hand or to fit your taste, whether you want more veggies, big bold flavors, or to sneak in some extra heat.

• Potato Lover’s Guisada: Dice and add a few potatoes during the last hour of simmering for an extra hearty and filling stew.
• Bolder & Spicier: Swap in hot chili powder, toss in crushed red pepper flakes, or add diced jalapeños if you like a spicy kick.
• Beer-Braised Twist: Replace a cup of beef broth with your favorite dark beer for deeper, richer flavor notes.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in extra bell peppers, carrots, or even corn—carne guisada welcomes your creativity!

How to Make Carne Guisada

Step 1: Sear the Beef to Build Deep Flavor

Heat a large skillet over medium-high and swirl in olive oil. Working in batches, add the cubed stew meat and let it brown beautifully on all sides. Don’t rush here—this is where you build layers of rich, savory taste! Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and repeat as needed. A little patience pays off big time for Carne Guisada.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies Until Fragrant

Reduce the heat slightly and drizzle in your remaining oil. Toss in the chopped onions and bell pepper, sautéing until soft and slightly translucent—about 3 minutes. The kitchen will smell amazing the moment you add minced garlic and tomatoes, so let them sizzle for a minute more until everything is vibrant and fragrant.

Step 3: Spice and Savor

Season everything with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder, stirring until the veggies are beautifully coated. Next, add the tomato paste and crumble in your beef bouillon cube, making sure you scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the skillet—those are flavor gold!

Step 4: Create the Luscious Gravy

Sprinkle the flour over the veggie mixture and toss well, letting the flour cook for a minute or two to remove any raw taste. Slowly pour in a cup of beef broth, stirring constantly. Watch as the mixture starts to thicken and transform into that silky, signature gravy that makes carne guisada irresistible.

Step 5: Simmer Low & Slow Until Tender

Return the browned beef to the skillet. Pour in another 2 cups of beef broth (add more if you want a “gravy-ier” stew), and give everything a good stir. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and let the magic happen for at least 1½ hours, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef yields to your fork and the gravy is thick and glossy.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of brightness. Your Carne Guisada is ready—grab your rice and tortillas and dig in!

How to Serve Carne Guisada

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is classic, but a few lime wedges or a scattering of diced onions add a bright pop and extra flavor. For an indulgent finishing touch, a little shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream never goes amiss.

Side Dishes

Fluffy Mexican rice and warm flour tortillas are traditional partners for Carne Guisada—perfect for sopping up that luscious gravy. Refried beans or buttery corn on the cob also make fabulous sides for a full and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Ladle your carne guisada into crispy taco shells, stuff it into burritos, or spoon generous helpings over baked potatoes or even fries for a Tex-Mex take on poutine! The possibilities for deliciousness are endless.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Carne Guisada is the kind of dish that tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop and mellow. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days—perfect for easy lunches or a second round of dinner heroics!

Freezing

This stew freezes like a dream. Cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 6 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready for a warm bowl of comfort.

Reheating

Reheat slowly on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to restore that creamy gravy, or zap in the microwave for a quick fix. Stir gently and heat until piping hot for best results.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Few dishes promise as much warmth and soul as Carne Guisada. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want homemade comfort, this recipe is pure love in a bowl. I hope you’ll gather your favorite people, serve up those hearty portions, and savor every bite. Enjoy—this one’s meant to be shared!

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