If you are craving something hearty, comforting, and packed with rich, savory flavors, this Carne Guisada Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chunks of beef slowly simmered in a vibrant tomato-based sauce with a blend of warm spices create a meal that’s both satisfying and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish offers a perfect balance of texture and depth that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Carne Guisada Recipe is wonderfully straightforward and relies on simple, quality ingredients that work together to create a delicious, well-rounded dish. Each ingredient plays a key role, from tender beef cubes that soak up the sauce to spices that bring warmth and complexity.
- Beef chuck or stew meat (2 lbs): The heart of the dish, these cubes become meltingly tender as they simmer.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Helps to sear the beef and develop deep flavors right from the start.
- Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Provides aromatic depth and a robust base flavor.
- Green bell pepper (1, chopped): Brings a touch of earthiness and color contrast.
- Tomato (1 medium, diced): Freshens up the sauce with a bright acidity.
- Tomato paste (2 tbsp): Concentrates the tomato flavor and gives the sauce richness.
- Beef broth (2 cups): Creates the luscious cooking liquid in which the beef becomes tender.
- Ground cumin (1 tsp): Adds a smoky, slightly nutty warmth.
- Chili powder (1 tsp): Introduces a mild kick and deep spice notes.
- Paprika (1/2 tsp): Enhances color and offers subtle sweetness.
- Ground oregano (1/2 tsp): Brings an herbal edge that complements the meat.
- Bay leaf (1): Infuses the sauce with gentle earthy flavor during simmering.
- Cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water, optional): Perfect for thickening the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish): Adds a bright, fresh finish to the dish.
How to Make Carne Guisada Recipe
Step 1: Preparing and Searing the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season your beef cubes generously with salt and pepper, then sear them in batches until each piece is beautifully browned on all sides. This step locks in the juices and builds a rich flavor foundation. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside to rest.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
In the same pot, toss in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped green bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently until they soften and start to release their delightful aromas. This creates a savory base that will blend seamlessly with the beef.
Step 3: Adding the Tomato Paste and Spices
Now stir in the tomato paste and cook for another one to two minutes. This caramelization enhances the paste’s natural sweetness and richness. Next, add the diced tomato along with the cumin, chili powder, paprika, and oregano, mixing everything well so those warm spices become evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 4: Combining Beef and Liquids
Return the seared beef cubes to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf. Bring everything to a gentle boil, letting the flavors meld together before lowering the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and allow it to cook slowly for about one and a half to two hours. This slow simmer is what transforms the beef into tender bites and deepens the sauce’s flavor profile.
Step 5: Final Touches and Thickening
Optional but recommended, during the last ten minutes of simmering, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce to your liking. This gives you a luscious, clingy sauce that coats every morsel of meat beautifully. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
How to Serve Carne Guisada Recipe
Garnishes
The simple addition of freshly chopped cilantro on top brings a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens this rich dish. A squeeze of lime juice can also add a lovely zesty contrast if you like a touch of acidity with your meat stews.
Side Dishes
Carne Guisada is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. White rice or Mexican rice works wonderfully to soak up all the delicious sauce. Warm flour or corn tortillas invite you to scoop and savor each bite, while a side of refried beans or a crisp salad adds balance and texture variety.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving Carne Guisada as a filling for tacos or burritos, topped with shredded cheese and avocado slices. Or spoon it over creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting, elevated meal. The rich sauce and tender beef make it adaptable for many creative plating ideas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Carne Guisada keeps exceptionally well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as satisfying as the first.
Freezing
If you want to keep Carne Guisada longer, freezing is a great option. Place cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the Carne Guisada gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, to retain moisture and avoid overcooking the beef. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this Carne Guisada Recipe?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for its tenderness after long cooking, you can also use stew meat or brisket. Just make sure to cut the meat into uniform pieces for even cooking and adjust simmering time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, after searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is tender and flavors meld perfectly.
Can I add vegetables to the Carne Guisada?
Of course! Some popular additions include potatoes, carrots, or even mushrooms. Add these about halfway through the simmering process so they cook through without becoming mushy.
How spicy is this Carne Guisada Recipe?
This version has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to chili powder. You can adjust the heat by increasing chili powder or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
What can I use instead of beef broth?
If you don’t have beef broth on hand, chicken broth or vegetable broth can work as alternatives. However, beef broth adds depth that enhances the meaty flavors of the dish more authentically.
Final Thoughts
This Carne Guisada Recipe is a true celebration of rich, comforting flavors and tender beef that makes any gathering feel special. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again because it delivers warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes for a cozy homemade meal.
Print
Carne Guisada Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Carne Guisada is a hearty and flavorful slow-simmered beef stew made with tender beef chunks, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This traditional dish combines the depth of cumin, chili powder, and oregano with fresh vegetables and beef broth to create a comforting meal perfect for serving with rice, tortillas, or bread.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 2 lbs beef chuck or stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium tomato, diced
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Thickening (Optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Brown the beef: Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sear them in the hot oil until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside to maintain the caramelized crust.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, sauté the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped green bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Caramelize the tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste with the sautéed vegetables and cook for 1–2 minutes. This step enhances the depth of flavor by caramelizing the tomato paste.
- Add spices and tomatoes: Mix in the diced tomato, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, and oregano. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer with beef broth: Return the browned beef to the pot, pour in the beef broth, and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Slow cook the stew: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until the beef is tender.
- Thicken the sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This will help the stew to thicken nicely. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the bay leaf and garnish the stew with fresh cilantro. Serve hot alongside rice, tortillas, or bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use beef chuck or stew meat for the best tenderness and flavor.
- Searing the beef first locks in juices and builds a flavorful base for the stew.
- Caramelizing the tomato paste deepens the overall taste of the dish.
- Simmering slowly on low heat tenderizes the beef and blends the flavors beautifully.
- The cornstarch slurry is optional but recommended if you prefer a thicker gravy.
- Leftovers reheat well and taste even better the next day.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro for a bright, fresh finish.
