Carne Guisada

Chunks of tender beef slow-cooked into an amazing Mexican stew oozing with flavor. The mouthwatering gravy creates the perfect bean-free chili. Every bite delivers an explosion of savory goodness.

Course Entree

Cuisine Mexican, Tex Mex

Cook Time 1 45

Total Time 1 45

Servings

Calories 314kcal

Author Imma

Ingredients

2 pounds (950g) stew beef, cut into chunks
salt and pepper to taste
2 teaspoons (10g) or more sazon seasoning (optional)
3 tablespoons (20g) all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
2-3 teaspoons (10-15g) minced garlic
1 medium onion, chopped
1-2 medium tomatoes, chopped
2 teaspoons (6g) cumin
1 teaspoon (1-2g) dried oregano
2 teaspoons (6g) chili powder
1 cup (236ml) water
1 cup (236ml) beef broth
1 serrano pepper (slightly toasted, peeled, seeded, and chopped)
¼ cup (4g) fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Add beef to a large bowl, then season with salt, pepper, and sazon seasoning. Lightly flour with about 3 tablespoons flour.
Heat a large skillet or pot on medium-high heat and drizzle in the vegetable oil. Add the beef and brown on both sides.
As soon as the beef browns, add garlic and onions, and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
Stir in diced tomatoes, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
Pour in water and beef stock, stirring to ensure every bit of beef is well coated.
Bring to a boil, cover the pot, and lower the heat. Cook for 1½ hours on low or until meat is tender. Add green bell peppers if desired.
Toss in diced serrano and continue cooking for about 5 minutes. Add cilantro to taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. Serve with steaming white rice and tortillas.

Notes

Choose beef with more marbling (aka fat). Leaner cuts tend to become dry and chewy.
Low and slow is the way to go to achieve fork-tender meat.
Ensure enough liquid covers the beef, then simmer covered with the lid on low for 1½ hours.
A pressure cooker shortens cooking time.
Please remember that the nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary significantly based on the products used in the recipe.

Nutrition