Homemade Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas
Carne Guisada, a classic Mexican and Tex-Mex stew, is a hearty and comforting dish made with tender, slow-cooked beef simmered in a flavorful sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner, with the rich, savory flavors complemented by fluffy flour tortillas, rice, or mashed potatoes. Cooking Carne Guisada slowly brings out the depth of flavor, as the meat absorbs the spices and becomes incredibly tender. Here’s how to make this delightful dish at home.
Ingredients for Carne Guisada
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients needed to make authentic Carne Guisada:
3 lbs stew meat: Cubed beef chuck or stew meat is ideal for this dish as it becomes tender during slow cooking.
1 tablespoon oil (lard, bacon grease, or cooking oil): Adds richness and flavor.
1 medium onion, diced: Provides aromatic depth to the stew.
1 small green bell pepper, diced (optional): Adds a mild sweetness and enhances the flavor of the stew.
3 tablespoons tomato sauce or 1 large tomato, diced: Adds a bit of acidity and thickens the sauce.
1 teaspoon garlic powder or 3 cloves of garlic, minced: Enhances the savory flavor of the beef.
2 teaspoons ground cumin: Adds warmth and a smoky depth, essential in Mexican-inspired dishes.
2 teaspoons salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the natural flavor of the beef.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle spice to the stew.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce, creating a luscious gravy.
1 cup water or chicken stock: Adds moisture and flavor, helping to form the sauce.
Flour tortillas, rice, or mashed potatoes, for serving: Perfect for soaking up the savory gravy.
Preparing the Stew Meat
Begin by heating a large, heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven over high heat. Add the oil (lard, bacon grease, or your preferred cooking oil) and allow it to heat until it shimmers.
Add the stew meat to the hot pan in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the meat. Brown the beef on all sides to lock in the flavor and develop a rich base for the stew.
As the meat browns, add the diced onion and green bell pepper (if using) to the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and the bell pepper is slightly tender.
Adding the Seasonings and Tomato
Once the meat, onions, and bell peppers are browned, add the tomato sauce or diced tomato to the pan. The tomato adds a slight tang and rich color to the sauce.
