Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Carne Guisada is a simple yet delicious one-pot dish that offers a rich, savory flavor. The beef is cooked to perfection, becoming incredibly tender while absorbing all the spices and herbs. The best part? You can easily prepare it in multiple ways, including on the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot. Whether you're cooking for a family meal or just want leftovers for the next day, this dish has you covered!
Ingredients
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Beef (stew beef or chuck steak, cut into bite-sized pieces)
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Oil (neutral-flavored, such as peanut oil)
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Onion (chopped)
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Bell pepper (chopped)
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Garlic (fresh)
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Tomato (diced)
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Spices (salt, black pepper, cumin, chili powder)
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Tomato paste
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Beef broth
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Flour (for thickening)
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Cilantro (for garnish)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Heat oil in a large pot. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
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Add garlic and cook until fragrant, then add the beef chunks, browning them on all sides.
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Stir in tomato paste, then add the diced tomatoes and cook for a few minutes.
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Add flour and cook until heated through, then pour in the beef broth.
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Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and cover. Let simmer for about 1.5-2 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
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If necessary, add a little water to reach your desired consistency. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 6
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 2 hours (on the stovetop; varies for slow cooker or Instant Pot)
Variations
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Add extra vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or sweet potatoes to the stew.
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For a spicier kick, incorporate cayenne pepper or additional chili powder.
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Use ground beef for a different texture.
Storage/Reheating
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Store leftover carne guisada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
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Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of beef broth to thin out the sauce if necessary.
FAQs
1. Can I make carne guisada in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. After sautéing the beef and veggies, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
2. Can I use a different cut of beef for carne guisada?
While stew beef or chuck steak are ideal, you can also use other cuts like brisket or round steak, though they may require slightly different cooking times.
3. Can I freeze carne guisada?
Yes, it freezes well! Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add cayenne pepper, extra chili powder, or even jalapeños to increase the heat.
5. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, canned tomatoes work just as well as fresh in this recipe. Use diced tomatoes in their juice.
6. How can I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
You can add a little cornstarch mixed with water or simmer the stew uncovered to allow the liquid to reduce.
7. Can I make carne guisada in an Instant Pot?
Yes, sauté the beef and vegetables in the Instant Pot, then add the rest of the ingredients and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.
8. What can I serve with carne guisada?
Carne guisada pairs well with rice, tortillas, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a side of beans or a fresh salad.
9. Is carne guisada the same as beef stew?
While both are similar, carne guisada has a distinct Latin American flavor, often including ingredients like cumin, chili powder, and tomato paste for a richer, spicier gravy.
10. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Carrots, potatoes, squash, or sweet potatoes can be added for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This carne guisada recipe is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you choose to make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot, you’ll enjoy the tender beef and rich, savory gravy that make this dish a standout.
Carne Guisada Recipe
Carne Guisada is a savory Latin American beef stew made with tender beef chunks in a flavorful, rich gravy. This comforting dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, served over rice, tortillas, or with your favorite sides. With simple ingredients and a variety of cooking methods (stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot), Carne Guisada offers a satisfying meal full of depth and warmth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours (varies with slow cooker or Instant Pot)
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop (alternatively Slow Cooker or Instant Pot)
- Cuisine: Latin American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Stew beef or chuck steak (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Neutral-flavored oil (such as peanut oil)
Onion (chopped)
Bell pepper (chopped)
Fresh garlic (minced)
Tomato (diced)
Spices: salt, black pepper, cumin, chili powder
Tomato paste
Beef broth
Flour (for thickening)
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
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Heat oil in a large pot and cook the chopped onion until translucent.
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Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Add beef chunks and brown on all sides.
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Stir in tomato paste, followed by the diced tomatoes. Cook for a few minutes.
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Add flour and cook through, then pour in the beef broth.
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Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 1.5-2 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
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If the gravy is too thick, add water to adjust the consistency.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.
Notes
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For extra vegetables, you can add carrots, potatoes, or sweet potatoes.
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Spice things up with cayenne pepper or more chili powder if desired.
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Ground beef can be used for a different texture.
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This dish can be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience.
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