Carne Guisada

Colombian Carne Guisada Recipe with Steak, Tomatoes, and Spices

Region / culture: Colombia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Carne Guisada is a traditional Mexican dish that translates to "stewed meat." It is a flavorful and hearty stew made with tender chunks of beef simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce. This dish is perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day or for a festive gathering with friends and family.

History

Carne Guisada has its roots in Mexican cuisine and has been enjoyed for generations. It is a popular dish in many Latin American countries and is often served with rice, beans, and tortillas. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and delicious dish that is sure to please any palate.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) sirloin steak (cubed)
2 tbsp cornstarch
vegetable oil
2 x 14 oz (397 g) Cans Diced tomatoes
1 cup water
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 jalapeño pepper, diced and seeded
0.5 bell pepper, diced
0.5 tsp salt
2 tbsp Ground cumin
1 tsp black pepper

How to prepare

Coat the steak with cornstarch.
Cook the steak in a large oiled skillet over medium heat until it is browned, stirring constantly. Drain the meat on paper towels.
Clean the skillet and add the steak and all other ingredients to the skillet. Bring it to a boil, cover, reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring often.
Remove the lid and cook it uncovered for an additional 30 minutes or until the sauce is thick and the meat is tender.
Serve it with flour tortillas.

Variations

Add diced potatoes or carrots to the stew for added texture and flavor.
Use different cuts of beef, such as chuck roast or brisket, for a more budget-friendly option.
Experiment with different spices, such as smoked paprika or chili powder, to customize the flavor of the stew.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to brown the steak before adding it to the stew. This will help to seal in the juices and create a more flavorful dish.

- Stir the stew often while it simmers to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

- For a spicier dish, leave the seeds in the jalapeño pepper. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds before adding it to the stew.

Serving Suggestions

Carne Guisada is traditionally served with warm flour tortillas for scooping up the tender meat and sauce. It can also be served over rice or with a side of beans for a complete and filling meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a delicious Carne Guisada is to simmer the stew slowly over low heat to allow the flavors to develop. Be sure to stir the stew often to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sirloin steak, you can use stew meat or beef chuck roast as a substitute. You can also use canned diced tomatoes with green chilies for added heat and flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Carne Guisada can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Carne Guisada in a large serving bowl with a garnish of fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for a pop of color. You can also serve it in individual bowls with a side of warm tortillas for a cozy and inviting presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Carne Guisada pairs well with Mexican rice, refried beans, and a side of guacamole for a complete and satisfying meal. A cold beer or a glass of red wine would also complement the rich flavors of the stew.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Carne Guisada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stew on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 15% of the daily recommended value per serving

Vitamin C: 20% of the daily recommended value per serving

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

Carne Guisada is a protein-rich dish that is relatively low in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of iron and vitamin C, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Carne Guisada is a classic Mexican stew that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. With tender chunks of beef simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Serve it with warm tortillas and your favorite sides for a delicious and satisfying meal that will please the whole family.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Carne Guisada. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a wonderful cook, and I always admired her culinary skills. As we chatted over a cup of coffee, she suddenly pulled out a worn, stained notebook from her cupboard.

"Have you ever tried Carne Guisada?" she asked with a mischievous smile.

I shook my head, intrigued by the unfamiliar name. Maria flipped through the pages of her notebook and handed me a yellowed piece of paper with a handwritten recipe on it. The ingredients were simple – beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices. But the method of cooking was what caught my attention. Slow simmering the meat in a savory sauce until it was tender and flavorful. It seemed like a labor of love, a dish that required patience and dedication.

Maria noticed the awe in my eyes and chuckled. "I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother. It's a family tradition, passed down through generations."

I was captivated by the idea of a recipe that held so much history and heritage. I knew I had to learn how to make Carne Guisada myself. Maria generously agreed to teach me, and that day marked the beginning of my journey into the world of this delicious Mexican stew.

As I followed Maria's instructions and watched the beef slowly cook in the fragrant sauce, I felt a deep connection to the generations of women who had made this dish before me. I imagined my own future grandchildren learning the recipe from me, carrying on the tradition for years to come.

Over the years, I perfected my own version of Carne Guisada, adding my own twist with extra spices and herbs. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, each time receiving rave reviews from friends and loved ones. The dish became a symbol of my love for cooking and my desire to preserve traditions.

But it wasn't just the taste of Carne Guisada that made it special to me. It was the memories associated with it – the laughter shared in the kitchen with Maria, the stories of my ancestors passed down through the generations, the joy of bringing people together over a comforting meal.

As I grew older, my passion for cooking only deepened. I collected recipes from various places and people, always eager to learn new dishes and techniques. But Carne Guisada remained a staple in my repertoire, a constant reminder of where I came from and the values that shaped me.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of simmering beef and spices, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all the women who came before me. They instilled in me a love for good food, a respect for tradition, and a joy in sharing meals with others.

And as I take a taste of the rich, flavorful Carne Guisada, I know that I am carrying on a legacy that will continue to nourish and sustain me for years to come.