There’s a magical aroma that wafts through the air when you cook carne guisada, a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chunks of beef simmering in a rich, savory sauce that beckons you to come closer, and trust me, once you take that first bite, your taste buds will throw a fiesta. creamy cauliflower mash This isn’t just food; it’s the culinary equivalent of curling up with your favorite blanket while watching your go-to comfort movie.
Let me take you back to my childhood, where carne guisada was the star of our family gatherings. My abuela would whip up this dish with such flair that even the neighbors would come knocking for a plate. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends—basically any occasion that calls for “let’s eat until we can’t move.” Get ready for an explosion of flavors and a dish so good it will make you rethink your entire meal planning strategy! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This carne guisada is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile combines savory spices with hearty meat and vegetables for a delightful taste experience.
- Visually appealing with its rich color and texture, it looks as good as it tastes.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, tortillas, or even in tacos!
Ingredients for Carne Guisada
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Chuck Roast: Look for well-marbled cuts; they break down beautifully during cooking and create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; slice it thick so it holds up during cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are non-negotiable; they add an aromatic punch to the sauce.
- Bell Peppers: Choose colorful peppers for visual appeal; they add crunch and sweetness when sautéed.
For the Sauce:
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: These provide acidity and balance out the richness of the beef—go for fire-roasted varieties if you want an extra kick.
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding moisture during cooking.
- Cumin: This spice brings warmth and earthiness; don’t skimp on it!
- Chili Powder: A must-have for heat; adjust according to your tolerance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Carne Guisada
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Season your beef chuck roast with salt and pepper. Add oil to the pot and sear the beef on all sides until it’s browned nicely—this step locks in those mouthwatering flavors. slow cooker pork roast.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, toss in your chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook them until they’re tender and fragrant—about five minutes should do.
Step 3: Build That Sauce
Add minced garlic into the mix, stirring it around until it’s fragrant—watch out, we don’t want burnt garlic! Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, beef broth, cumin, chili powder, and any additional seasonings you fancy.
Step 4: Return Beef & Simmer
Now is where magic happens! Return your seared beef back to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Cover it up and let it simmer for about two hours or until your beef is fork-tender.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once done simmering, give your carne guisada a taste test. Adjust seasoning if needed—maybe more salt? Perhaps some extra chili powder? Make it yours!
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Plate your carne guisada over rice or load it into tacos topped with fresh cilantro and avocado slices. Trust me; every bite will transport you straight to flavor town!
Now that you’ve made this comforting carne guisada recipe, prepare yourself for rave reviews around the dinner table! You’ll be known as “that person” who can whip up magic in the kitchen—a title everyone secretly desires but few achieve!
You Must Know
- This delightful Carne Guisada recipe offers more than just a comforting meal; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl.
- The rich flavors and tender meat make it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
- Serve it over rice or with warm tortillas, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat in batches to develop a rich flavor. Then, sauté your onions and garlic, add spices, and finally incorporate tomatoes and broth. Let everything simmer until the meat is fork-tender and bursting with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the beef for chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with different spices like cumin or smoked paprika, and throw in some veggies like potatoes or carrots for added texture!
Storing & Reheating
Store your leftover Carne Guisada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist and tasty.
Chef's Helpful Tips
Sometimes I whip up this Carne Guisada on cold evenings, and my friends rave about how it warms their hearts—definitely a family favorite that brings everyone together!
FAQs:
What is Carne Guisada?
Carne Guisada is a traditional Latin American dish that features tender beef simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy. This dish varies by region, but it typically includes ingredients such as onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices. comforting tomato pasta The result is a hearty meal often served with rice or tortillas. Many families have their own recipes for Carne Guisada, making it a beloved comfort food across cultures.
How do you make Carne Guisada from scratch?
To make Carne Guisada from scratch, start by browning chunks of beef in a pot. Add chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers to create a flavor base. Then pour in diced tomatoes and broth, seasoning with cumin, oregano, and bay leaves. Allow the mixture to simmer for several hours until the meat is fork-tender. Serve this delicious dish over rice or with warm tortillas for a complete meal.
Can I use other meats for Carne Guisada?
Yes, you can use different meats for Carne Guisada if desired. While beef is the traditional choice, pork or chicken can also work well. Each type of meat will impart its unique flavor to the dish. quick chicken stir fry Adjust cooking times accordingly; chicken cooks faster than beef or pork. Experimenting with various meats can yield delicious results while keeping the spirit of Carne Guisada alive.
What sides go well with Carne Guisada?
Carne Guisada pairs beautifully with several side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Traditional options include fluffy white rice and warm corn tortillas. You might also consider refried beans or a fresh salad to balance the meal. Adding avocado slices or guacamole provides creaminess that enhances the overall experience of enjoying Carne Guisada.
Conclusion for Carne Guisada:
In summary, Carne Guisada is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings warmth to any table. With its tender beef simmered in savory gravy and a mix of vegetables, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a family favorite in many households. Whether served over rice or alongside tortillas, it offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Embrace your culinary creativity by trying different meats or sides to make this timeless recipe your own!
Carne Guisada
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Carne Guisada is a flavorful Latin American stew featuring tender beef simmered in a savory sauce, enriched with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Serve it over fluffy rice or warm tortillas, and watch as it quickly becomes a cherished favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season beef chunks with salt and pepper. Sear on all sides until browned, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes until tender. Stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
- Build the Sauce: Add diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, cumin, chili powder, and any additional seasonings. Stir well.
- Return Beef & Simmer: Add the seared beef back to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 2 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
- Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
- Serve & Enjoy: Plate your carne guisada over rice or in tacos topped with fresh cilantro and avocado slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Latin American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: For added depth of flavor, consider browning the meat in batches. Substitute beef with chicken or tofu for different variations. Enhance with extra vegetables like potatoes or carrots.