Beef Stew (Carne Guisada)

Here’s a hearty, classic recipe for Beef Stew (Carne Guisada)—rich, savory, and perfect for a comforting meal.

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Ingredients (serves 4–6)

• 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast or similar), cut into 1–1.5 inch cubes

• 2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper, chopped (green or red)

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2–3 tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes, 14.5 oz)

• 2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)

• 1–2 teaspoons cumin

• 1–2 teaspoons paprika

• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2–3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional)

• 2–3 carrots, sliced (optional)

• 1–2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)

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Instructions

1. Brown the beef:

   • Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

   • Add beef cubes in batches, browning on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Cook the vegetables:

   • In the same pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft (3–5 minutes).

3. Add spices and tomatoes:

   • Stir in cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

   • Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes.

4. Simmer the stew:

   • Return the beef to the pot.

   • Pour in beef broth until meat is just covered.

   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender.

5. Add vegetables (optional):

   • If using potatoes and carrots, add them about 30–40 minutes before stew is done.

6. Thicken the stew (optional):

   • For a thicker sauce, mix 1–2 tablespoons flour with a little water to form a slurry and stir into the stew. Cook 5–10 more minutes until thickened.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning:

   • Add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.

8. Serve:

   • Enjoy hot over rice, with warm tortillas, or alongside crusty bread.

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💡 Tips:

• For extra flavor, brown the meat in batches so it sears properly.

• Letting the stew sit a few hours or overnight enhances the taste.

• Add a splash of lime juice or fresh cilantro at the end for a bright finish.

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If you want, I can also give you a simplified 1-pot “quick” version of carne guisada that’s ready in under an hour. It’s perfect if you don’t have time for slow simmering. Do you want me to do that?