Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of Carne Guisada lies in its simplicity and the boldness of the flavors. The chuck steak is the star of the dish—when cooked properly, it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the tomatoes, jalapeños, and broth. The soft potatoes add both texture and a bit of sweetness, balancing the heat from the jalapeños.

Searing the beef first, then allowing it to simmer with the aromatics, is essential for building depth of flavor. The stew’s savory broth, thickened by the mashed tomatoes, complements the meat and vegetables perfectly. Whether served with steamed rice or warm bread, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Cooking the Beef

The chuck steak is the ideal cut of beef for Carne Guisada. It has the perfect amount of marbling, which keeps the meat juicy and tender during the long simmering process. Thinly slicing the beef ensures that it cooks quickly and evenly while absorbing the spices and flavors from the broth.

The beef is first browned in oil, creating a caramelized layer on the meat that adds flavor to the dish. After browning the beef, the chopped tomatoes are added to the skillet, where they are mashed with the back of a spoon to release their juices. This helps create the rich base of the stew, giving it a slightly sweet and savory flavor that perfectly complements the beef.

The Aromatics: Garlic, Onion, and Tomatoes

Aromatic vegetables like garlic and onion are essential for building the foundation of the dish’s flavor. They are sautéed in canola oil until softened and fragrant, creating a savory base that enhances the beef. Adding the tomatoes to the pan helps create a naturally thick sauce that clings to the beef and potatoes as they simmer.

The addition of minced jalapeños brings a subtle heat to the dish. You can adjust the amount of jalapeño depending on your preference for spice. The flavor of the jalapeño integrates into the stew, adding warmth and complexity without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Simmering the Stew

Once the beef and aromatics are cooked, the broth is added to the pan. Beef broth is the preferred liquid for this dish, as it adds an extra layer of richness, but water can be used as a substitute for a lighter broth. Bringing the stew to a boil allows the flavors to meld together, and skimming off any scum that floats to the surface helps ensure a clean, clear broth.

The stew is then simmered on low heat for 40-50 minutes until the beef is tender. This slow cooking process allows the beef to absorb the flavors of the broth and spices, making it incredibly tender and flavorful. You may need to add more water in ½ cup increments if the stew becomes too thick during cooking, but the goal is to have a slightly thickened sauce by the time it’s done.

Adding the Potatoes

The potatoes are added towards the end of the cooking process, allowing them to cook through but not become mushy. The potatoes absorb some of the stew’s flavors while adding a hearty element to the dish. Their natural starch helps thicken the sauce as well, creating a richer texture. Once the potatoes are tender, the stew is ready to be seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving the Dish

Carne Guisada is best served hot and fresh. It’s typically paired with steamed white rice, which soaks up the flavorful broth and complements the richness of the beef. You could also serve it with warm tortillas or crusty bread for dipping.

For extra garnish, you can sprinkle some chopped cilantro or green onions on top for a touch of freshness. The beauty of this dish is that it’s simple yet deeply satisfying—each bite is full of tender beef, flavorful broth, and hearty potatoes.

Why You’ll Love Carne Guisada

Carne Guisada is the perfect combination of savory flavors and tender beef. The simplicity of the ingredients—beef, potatoes, onions, garlic, and tomatoes—makes it easy to prepare, while the slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld into something truly special. This dish is both comforting and filling, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy dinner with family. The rich, thick sauce and tender beef make it a truly satisfying meal.

Whether you enjoy it with rice, bread, or tortillas, Carne Guisada is a versatile dish that you’ll want to make again and again. The balance of tender beef, savory spices, and hearty potatoes is something everyone can enjoy, and the ease of preparation makes it perfect for any night of the week.

Conclusion

Carne Guisada is a hearty, flavorful stew that’s easy to make and packed with delicious, savory flavors. With tender beef, aromatic spices, and soft potatoes simmered in a rich broth, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner, this comforting dish can be served with rice, tortillas, or bread for a satisfying meal. The combination of flavors makes Carne Guisada a deliciously fulfilling option that’s both simple and indulgent. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of this flavorful dish!