Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One-pot wonder: The recipe is simple to follow and requires just one pot for easy clean-up.
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Tender beef: The beef is slow-cooked until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender.
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Multiple cooking methods: You can make this dish on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot.
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Great leftovers: The flavors develop even more the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
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Beef stew or chuck steak (cut into bite-sized pieces)
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Oil (peanut or any neutral-flavored oil)
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Onion (chopped)
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Bell pepper (chopped)
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Garlic (fresh, minced)
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Tomatoes (diced, fresh or canned)
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Cumin
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Chili powder
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Salt and black pepper
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Tomato paste
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Beef broth
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Flour
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Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Sauté the ingredients: Heat oil in a pot and cook the onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, then add the beef and brown on all sides.
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Build the sauce: Add the tomato paste, then the tomatoes. Stir and cook for a few minutes. Add flour and cook briefly before adding beef broth.
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Season and simmer: Add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the beef is tender (about 1 to 1.5 hours).
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Serve: Add water to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4-6 servings
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 1-1.5 hours
Variations
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Extra vegetables: You can add carrots, potatoes, or sweet potatoes for added flavor and texture.
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Spicier: Adjust the chili powder or add cayenne pepper to increase the heat.
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Slow cooker method: After browning the beef, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat, or use the microwave for individual servings.
FAQs
1. Can I make carne guisada in advance?
Yes, carne guisada tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for making in advance.
2. What’s the best cut of beef for carne guisada?
Chuck steak or beef stew cuts work best for this recipe, as they become tender after slow cooking.
3. Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?
Yes, follow the same instructions but cook on high pressure for 30 minutes and let the pot naturally release pressure.
4. How do I thicken the sauce?
You can use flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Add it while the beef is simmering.
5. Can I freeze carne guisada?
Yes, it freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
6. What can I serve with carne guisada?
Serve it with rice, tortillas, or even bread to soak up the flavorful gravy.
8. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for more heat.
9. Can I make this dish without tomatoes?
Yes, you can skip the tomatoes, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Adding extra broth or tomato paste can help compensate.
10. Is carne guisada gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Conclusion
Carne guisada is a comforting and flavorful stew that brings a taste of Latin America to your kitchen. Whether you cook it on the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, the result is a hearty and delicious meal. Perfect for any day of the week and even better as leftovers, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
