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Carne guisada, a deliciously rich beef stew, is a dish that transcends borders and brings families together around the dinner table. This hearty meal, bursting with robust flavors and comforting aromas, has its roots deeply embedded in Latin American culinary traditions. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive family gathering, carne guisada serves as a delightful centerpiece that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. With its tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of spices, this dish not only nourishes the body but also evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort.

Carne Guisada

Discover the heartwarming flavors of carne guisada, a succulent beef stew that brings together tender meat, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices. Rooted in Latin American traditions, this rich dish is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With its comforting textures and the ability to adapt to personal tastes, carne guisada promises to nourish both body and soul. Learn to make this delightful stew and create lasting memories around the dinner table.

Ingredients
  

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 bell peppers (1 green and 1 red), diced

2 tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)

2 cups beef broth (or water)

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup carrots, sliced

1 cup potatoes, diced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Sear the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Once hot, add the beef to the pot in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

    Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until the onions become translucent.

      Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes (or canned tomatoes), tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and flavors to develop.

        Combine Beef and Broth: Return the seared beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients and scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.

          Incorporate Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

            Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and check the seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.

              Finishing Touches: Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and stir in chopped cilantro for a fresh finishing touch. Allow the carne guisada to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

                Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with lime wedges on the side for a burst of freshness. Enjoy your hearty carne guisada with warm tortillas or over rice.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 2 hours | 6 servings