Carne Guisada is a soul-warming Mexican stew that features tender chunks of beef slowly simmered in a rich, smoky chile sauce. The deep flavors of chili powder, cumin, and oregano meld together beautifully with the beef broth and diced tomatoes, resulting in a comforting dish that’s perfect for any time you crave something hearty and satisfying.
This dish is traditionally served with warm flour or corn tortillas, making it ideal for scooping up the luscious sauce and beef. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or want an easy, flavorful weeknight meal, Carne Guisada brings bold Mexican flavors to your table with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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1 large onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
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2 tablespoons chili powder
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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2 cups beef broth
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1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
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Flour or corn tortillas, for serving
Directions:
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Heat vegetable oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Season beef cubes with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches until deep golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pot, add diced onion, garlic, and jalapeños. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
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Return beef to the pot and pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir to combine.
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Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender and the sauce thickens.
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Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
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Serve hot with warm flour or corn tortillas.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
Introduction to Carne Guisada
Carne Guisada is a beloved dish in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, known for its rich flavors and comforting qualities. The name literally means “stewed meat,” and this hearty beef stew is a staple in many households, especially in regions where slow-cooked, flavorful meals are cherished. What sets Carne Guisada apart from other stews is its use of chili powder, cumin, oregano, and other spices that create a uniquely smoky, savory, and slightly spicy sauce that perfectly coats the tender beef chunks. This dish has become a go-to meal for family dinners, gatherings, and celebrations because of its simplicity, satisfying taste, and versatility.
The History and Cultural Significance
Carne Guisada has deep roots in Mexican culinary tradition, influenced by Spanish cooking techniques combined with indigenous flavors and ingredients. The concept of stewing meat to tenderize it and build layers of flavor is centuries old, and this dish reflects that heritage beautifully. In Tex-Mex cuisine, Carne Guisada represents the blending of Mexican ingredients and American regional tastes, creating a comforting dish that has gained popularity across the United States, particularly in Texas and the Southwest.
For many, Carne Guisada is not just food but a cultural experience — a reminder of family, heritage, and communal eating. It’s often served alongside rice, beans, or tortillas, making it a complete and fulfilling meal that’s both practical and delicious.
Flavor Profile and Key Ingredients
The magic of Carne Guisada lies in its seasoning and slow cooking process. The combination of chili powder, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika imparts warmth and a subtle smokiness that elevates the beef beyond a basic stew. Garlic, onions, and jalapeños add aromatic depth and just the right amount of heat to balance the dish without overwhelming the palate.
The slow simmering technique allows the beef to absorb these spices deeply, breaking down the connective tissues in the chuck roast or stew beef, resulting in tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites. The tomatoes with green chilies contribute acidity and a slight tang, which help to brighten the stew and round out the flavors.
Cooking Techniques and Tips
One of the critical elements in making an excellent Carne Guisada is the slow cooking process. Browning the beef before simmering adds layers of caramelized flavor, thanks to the Maillard reaction. This step builds a rich base for the stew. Cooking the aromatics — onions, garlic, and jalapeños — until soft and fragrant further intensifies the flavor profile.
Maintaining a low simmer during the cooking phase ensures the beef becomes tender without drying out or becoming tough. Stirring occasionally helps prevent sticking and allows the sauce to thicken naturally. This patience pays off with a deeply satisfying stew that tastes like it’s been cooked for hours, even if your kitchen timer says otherwise.
For home cooks without a slow cooker, a heavy Dutch oven or a large pot with a lid is ideal. Alternatively, a slow cooker can be used to allow for a more hands-off approach while still achieving the desired tenderness and flavor infusion.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Carne Guisada shines when served hot and fresh. Traditional accompaniments include warm flour or corn tortillas, which help scoop up the juicy beef and rich sauce. It’s also delicious with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a more substantial meal.
For a lighter side, fresh chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or a simple cabbage slaw can add brightness and a refreshing contrast to the rich stew. Some like to add slices of avocado or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
This dish also pairs beautifully with classic Mexican beverages like horchata or tamarind agua fresca, which balance the savory, spicy notes with sweet and tangy flavors.
Variations and Customizations
One of the great things about Carne Guisada is how adaptable it is. While beef chuck is the traditional choice for its perfect fat content and tenderness after slow cooking, other meats such as pork shoulder or even chicken thighs can be used for variations that still honor the stew’s bold flavor foundation.
For those who prefer milder heat, reducing or removing the jalapeños while keeping the chili powder will still provide a rich taste without overwhelming spice. Adding vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers during the simmering stage can turn Carne Guisada into a heartier, one-pot meal.
Health-conscious cooks can adjust the oil quantity or use leaner cuts of meat, though keep in mind this might slightly change the texture and richness of the stew. Gluten-free and dairy-free diets are easily accommodated by sticking to traditional ingredients and serving with corn tortillas instead of flour.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Carne Guisada is a protein-packed dish that offers a good balance of essential nutrients, thanks to the beef and spices used. Beef is an excellent source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which support energy production and immune function. The spices not only add flavor but also come with antioxidant properties and potential health benefits such as anti-inflammatory effects.
Because the dish includes whole, minimally processed ingredients, it fits well into many balanced diets. Pairing it with vegetables or salads further increases fiber and micronutrient intake, making Carne Guisada both a delicious and nutritious meal option.
Why Carne Guisada is Perfect for Any Occasion
Carne Guisada’s rich, comforting qualities make it an excellent choice for a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a festive meal for friends and family, or a dish to bring to a potluck, this stew adapts well to all settings.
Its make-ahead potential is another advantage. It can be prepared in advance and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. This convenience makes it ideal for busy households or entertaining without stress.
Moreover, Carne Guisada represents a culinary bridge between cultures and generations. It’s a dish that evokes memories of home cooking while inviting cooks to experiment and make it their own.
Conclusion
Carne Guisada is more than just a stew — it’s a celebration of rich Mexican and Tex-Mex flavors, slow-cooked tenderness, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. Its deep, smoky, and slightly spicy sauce envelops tender chunks of beef in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe invites you to savor traditional flavors and create lasting memories around the table.
Its versatility, ease of preparation, and satisfying taste make Carne Guisada a timeless classic. With just a handful of ingredients and some patience, you can bring a piece of Mexican culinary heritage to your kitchen and enjoy a meal that’s as flavorful as it is comforting. Perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or whenever you crave something hearty and authentic, Carne Guisada is a dish worth mastering and sharing.