Oh, my friends, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite recipes: Carne Guisada! This delicious, savory dish brings back so many wonderful memories of family gatherings, especially those cozy Sunday dinners where the aroma would waft through the house, inviting everyone to the table. I can almost hear the laughter and chatter as everyone devours this tender, beefy delight, and it never fails to warm my heart.
Carne Guisada, which translates to “braised meat,” is a comforting, hearty stew that’s perfect for any occasion, be it a chilly evening or a special celebration. It’s rich, full of flavor, and makes your house smell beautiful while simmering away. Trust me, your future self will thank you for taking the time to make it!
What’s in Carne Guisada?
Let’s break down the fantastic ingredients that come together to create this scrumptious dish!
Beef Chuck: The star of the show! I like to use beef chuck for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked low and slow.
Vegetable Oil: A little oil to help sear the meat perfectly. You can also use olive oil if that’s your preference.
Onion: Sweet and aromatic, onions are essential for building the foundation of flavor in this dish.
Garlic: Because everything is better with garlic! I use fresh garlic for that punchy flavor it brings.
Green Bell Peppers: These add a wonderful crunch and vibrant color to our stew.
Tomatoes: Fresh, juicy tomatoes (or canned, if that’s what you have) provide a lovely sweetness and acidity.
Tomato Paste: This thickens the sauce and deepens the flavor, making everything come together beautifully.
Ground Cumin, Paprika, Chili Powder: My trio of spices that creates a warm and slightly smoky depth of flavor. Spices are life!
Bay Leaf: It adds a hint of earthy flavor that rounds out the dish beautifully. Just don’t forget to remove it before serving!
Beef Broth: Essential for that deep, savory sauce. Homemade broth is a dream, but store-bought is perfectly fine for convenience.
Worcestershire Sauce: A secret ingredient that enhances the umami flavors.
Salt and Pepper: The basic seasonings that bring everything to life.
Fresh Cilantro: My favorite garnish that adds a touch of freshness and color. Plus, it looks gorgeous on the plate!
Is Carne Guisada Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health! While Carne Guisada is certainly a treat, it also has some wholesome aspects.
Beef Chuck: It’s a great source of protein and iron, which are essential for muscle growth and keeping your energy levels high.
Vegetables: With the onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, you’re packing in nutrients and vitamins! It’s a veggie win.
However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, you might want to use low-sodium beef broth and be mindful of the Worcestershire sauce. And hey, balance is key! Pair your Carne Guisada with a side of brown rice or a fresh salad to amp up the nutritional profile.
Ingredients Needed
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 green bell peppers, chopped
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 bay leaf
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
*This recipe serves about 6 people, perfect for a family dinner or get-together with friends!*
How to Make Carne Guisada?
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to whip up this fabulous dish:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes and sear them on all sides until browned. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped green bell peppers and cook until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine everything well and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the seared beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
7. Once the beef is cooked, remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro, and enjoy with rice, tortillas, or bread!
Delicious Tips for Carne Guisada
Here are a few extra tips to elevate your Carne Guisada:
– If you like a little heat, feel free to add some diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix.
– This dish also freezes really well, making it ideal for meal prep. Just reheat it gently on the stove when you’re ready for some comfort food!
– Think beyond just serving it with rice—try it in tacos, over mashed potatoes, or even as a filling for empanadas!
I can’t express how much you’ll love making and enjoying this Carne Guisada. It’s practically a hug in a bowl! So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite playlist, and get ready to savor each bite. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t be shy; share your experiences and any delicious twists you make! Happy cooking!
