Carne guisada is a hearty and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of comfort food in Latin American cuisine. This beef stew is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the meat to become tender while absorbing the rich, savory flavors of the spices and vegetables. Ideal for a family dinner or a gathering, this recipe will surely impress your guests and warm your heart. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process for this mouth-watering meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 2 hours.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of carne guisada contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides.
- Remove the beef and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add onions and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Add the bell peppers and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook until they break down.
- Add cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
- Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken or pork instead of beef. Additionally, if you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or tempeh, and use vegetable broth.
Serving and Pairings
Carne guisada pairs beautifully with warm tortillas, rice, or beans. You can also serve it with a side of avocado or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store carne guisada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not browning the meat properly, which can affect flavor.
- Using too much salt; always taste as you go.
- Not allowing enough time for the stew to simmer.
- Skipping the browning step can lead to a less rich flavor.
- Overcooking the vegetables can make them mushy.
Helpful Tips
- Let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving to deepen the flavor.
- Use a heavy pot for even heat distribution.
- Add a splash of lime juice before serving for brightness.
- Experiment with additional spices like chili powder for heat.
FAQs
What is carne guisada?
Carne guisada is a traditional Latin American beef stew, often made with chunks of beef, vegetables, and spices, slow-cooked to create a rich and flavorful dish.
Can carne guisada be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, carne guisada can be made in a slow cooker. Simply brown the meat and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
What can I serve with carne guisada?
Carne guisada pairs well with rice, tortillas, and beans, or can be served on its own with toppings like avocado and cilantro.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make carne guisada ahead of time?
Absolutely! Carne guisada tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Carne guisada is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the warmth of Latin American flavors to your table. With its tender beef and rich sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process of making it and the delightful results that follow!
Carne Guisada
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 bell peppers red and green, chopped
- 2 tomatoes diced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides.
- Remove the beef and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add onions and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Add the bell peppers and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook until they break down.
- Add cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
- Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
