Carne Guisada: A Stew of Comfort
Carne Guisada, meaning “stewed meat” in Spanish, is a beloved dish in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. This hearty beef stew is known for its tender, slow-cooked meat simmered in a richly seasoned sauce made with tomatoes, peppers, onions, and warm spices. Served with fluffy Mexican rice and soft flour tortillas, it’s the kind of comfort food that warms both the body and soul.
Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, Sunday gatherings, or meal prep, Carne Guisada is a satisfying dish that brings authentic flavor straight to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic & Flavorful – Captures the traditional taste of Mexican home cooking.
- Tender & Juicy Beef – Slow simmering transforms chuck roast into melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
- One-Pot Comfort Food – Easy to prepare, hearty, and deeply comforting.
- Perfect Pairings – Serve with rice and tortillas for a complete, satisfying meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.
Ingredients
For the Carne Guisada
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups beef broth
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil, for browning
For the Mexican Rice (side dish)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt, to taste
For Serving
- Fresh, warm flour tortillas
- Extra cilantro or lime wedges (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
- Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season beef chunks with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and cook another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer the Stew
- Return the browned beef to the pot.
- Add cumin, chili powder, paprika, bay leaves, and beef broth. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beef is fork-tender and sauce has thickened.
Step 4: Cook the Mexican Rice
- In a separate skillet, heat oil and add the rice. Toast until golden.
- Stir in tomato sauce and chicken broth.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 20 minutes, or until rice is fluffy.
Step 5: Serve with Tortillas
- Warm flour tortillas in a skillet or tortilla warmer.
- Plate Carne Guisada with a side of rice and tortillas. Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy!
Expert Tips & Variations
- Cut of Beef – Beef chuck is best for slow cooking, but brisket or stew meat also works.
- Thicker Sauce – If you prefer a thicker gravy, stir in 1 tablespoon of flour mixed with water during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
- Vegetable Add-Ins – Potatoes or carrots can be simmered with the stew for a heartier version.
- Make-Ahead – Store in the fridge for up to 4 days; the flavors deepen over time.
Important Notes
- Don’t rush the simmering—low and slow cooking ensures tender beef.
- Avoid adding too much salt at the beginning; the stew will reduce and concentrate flavors.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
(Values may vary depending on portion sizes and sides served.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make Carne Guisada in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Q2: Can I freeze Carne Guisada?
Absolutely. Let the stew cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q3: What can I serve with Carne Guisada besides rice and tortillas?
It pairs well with refried beans, Mexican street corn, or even mashed potatoes.
Q4: Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes! Use hot chili powder, add fresh jalapeños, or stir in a splash of hot sauce.
👉 Carne Guisada is the ultimate comfort food—rich, savory, and deeply satisfying. Pair it with fluffy rice and warm tortillas, and you’ll have a hearty Mexican-inspired meal perfect for any day of the week.