Carne Guisada holds a special place in my heart and in the kitchens of Puerto Rican homes. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate, infused with the rich flavors of spices and tender beef. Growing up, I remember my abuela stirring a pot on the stove, filling the house with that intoxicating aroma that made everyone gather around, eager for a taste. The slow-cooking process brings out the depth of flavor, making every bite a comforting reminder of home. Trust me, once you try this stew, it’ll become a beloved staple in your family too!
Ingredients for Carne Guisada
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to create the most delicious Carne Guisada. Each component plays a key role in building that rich, savory stew that you’ll want to make again and again!
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes – This cut is perfect for stewing as it becomes tender and juicy with long cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For browning the beef and adding a rich flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped – A must for that aromatic base.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped – Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better!
- 2 tomatoes, chopped – Freshness that brightens up the stew.
- 2 cups beef broth – For depth and richness; homemade is great, but store-bought works too!
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste – To enhance the tomato flavor and create a thicker sauce.
- 1 teaspoon oregano – A classic herb that brings warmth to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon cumin – This adds an earthy note that’s simply irresistible.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning; don’t skip this step!
- 2 bay leaves – For that aromatic touch as it simmers away.
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced – They add a briny kick that balances the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped – Fresh and vibrant, it’s the final touch that brightens the stew.
How to Prepare Carne Guisada
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the magic of cooking! This process is simple, but believe me, the results are incredibly rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a hearty, flavorful Carne Guisada simmering away in no time!
Step 1: Sautéing the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sear, but not smoking! Once the oil shimmers, add the beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for locking in those delicious juices. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Cooking the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these beauties for about 5 minutes or until they’re soft and fragrant. You’ll love how the aroma fills your kitchen! This creates a lovely base for your stew.
Step 3: Simmering the Stew
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the chopped tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything until well combined. Return the browned beef to the pot along with the bay leaves. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cover. Let it bubble away on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. This is where the magic happens—the longer it simmers, the more tender and flavorful the beef becomes. Just keep an eye on it, and stir occasionally!
Step 4: Final Touches
When the beef is nice and tender, stir in the sliced olives and chopped cilantro just before serving. This adds a delightful freshness! Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed; sometimes a pinch more salt does wonders. And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Carne Guisada ready to warm your soul!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Carne Guisada, you might be curious about the nutritional aspects. Here’s a general breakdown to give you an idea of what you’re savoring! Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these values are estimated based on a standard serving size.
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Enjoying this hearty stew is not just comforting but also packed with protein and flavor. So go ahead, indulge in this dish while knowing a little more about what’s on your plate!
Tips for Success
Making the perfect Carne Guisada is all about those little details. Here are my top tips to ensure your stew turns out absolutely delicious every time!
- Adjust the spices: Don’t be afraid to tweak the spices to fit your taste! If you love a bit more heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s tough to take it away!
- Make it ahead: If you have the time, prepare your Carne Guisada a day before you plan to serve it. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier when reheated!
- Use quality beef: Opt for well-marbled chuck roast for the best tenderness. The fat will break down during cooking, giving you melt-in-your-mouth beef.
- Simmer low and slow: Patience is key! Letting your stew simmer on low heat allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to deepen. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
- Don’t skip the resting: After cooking, let your stew rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes each bite even more satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Carne Guisada is such a versatile dish, and I love pairing it with a few classic sides that really complement its rich flavors. You can’t go wrong with a steaming bowl of white rice; it’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. Mashed potatoes also make a fantastic pairing, adding a creamy texture that balances the stew beautifully. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a bed of sautéed vegetables or with a side salad for freshness. Trust me, no matter what you choose, you’ll want to savor every last bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve gathered some common questions about Carne Guisada that I think you’ll find helpful. It’s always good to have a bit of extra info when you’re trying something new!
Can I use a different cut of beef for Carne Guisada?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is my go-to for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use brisket or round. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut you choose.
How do I store leftovers of Carne Guisada?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. If you want to keep it longer, feel free to freeze it for up to 2 months.
What can I serve with Carne Guisada?
Some great options include white rice, mashed potatoes, or even a side of tostones (fried green plantains). Each of these pairs wonderfully with the savory stew and helps soak up all that delicious sauce!
Can I make Carne Guisada in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Just brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours, and you’ll have a beautifully tender Carne Guisada waiting for you!
Is Carne Guisada spicy?
Not really! This dish has a wonderful depth of flavor from the spices, but it’s not meant to be spicy. If you prefer a kick, feel free to add some jalapeños or hot sauce to suit your taste!
Why You’ll Love Carne Guisada
- Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of spices and tender beef creates a rich, savory flavor that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
- Comfort Food at Its Best: This hearty stew is like a warm hug, perfect for cozy family dinners or chilly nights.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you can whip up this dish without any stress. Just let it simmer and enjoy the aroma!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Carne Guisada tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for leftovers or meal prepping.
- Versatile Pairings: Whether you serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or over a salad, this stew complements a variety of sides beautifully.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it a surefire hit at the dinner table!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
For a delightful dessert to pair with your meal, consider making Peach Cobbler!
Learn more about the health benefits of beef in this Healthline article (rel=”nofollow”).
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Carne Guisada: 5 Heartwarming Secrets to Perfect Stew
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Carne Guisada is a flavorful Puerto Rican beef stew, rich in spices and slow-cooked for tenderness.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add beef cubes and brown on all sides.
- Remove beef and set aside.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until soft.
- Add chopped tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Return beef to the pot and add bay leaves.
- Simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.
- Stir in olives and cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Serve with rice or mashed potatoes.
- You can adjust spices to your preference.
- This dish tastes better the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stewing
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Carne Guisada, Puerto Rican Beef Stew