Carne Guisada literally means “stewed meat” — and it’s exactly that: beef slow-cooked in a delicious brown gravy made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and spices until fork-tender. Whether you’re making it the Tex-Mex way or a more traditional Mexican version, it’s pure comfort food.
⏱️ Prep Time
Task Time Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 1½–2 hours Total Time ~2 hours
🔧 Equipment
Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Cutting board & knife
Wooden spoon or spatula
Small bowl for spice mixing
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes)
2 tbsp oil (vegetable or lard)
1 small onion, diced
1–2 garlic cloves, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced (optional, Tex-Mex style)
2 medium tomatoes, diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
2 cups beef broth or water
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
2 tbsp flour (for thickening)
2 tbsp water (to mix with flour)
🧾 Ingredient Notes
Beef chuck is ideal — it becomes tender and flavorful with slow cooking.Flour slurry thickens the gravy; you can also use cornstarch if gluten-free.Spices can be adjusted — some regional versions add tomato sauce or bouillon cubes for richer flavor.
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Sear the Beef:
Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add beef in batches and sear until browned on all sides (don’t overcrowd).
Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Veggies:
In the same pot, reduce heat to medium.
Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper (if using). Sauté until soft, 3–4 minutes.
Add tomatoes and cook until they break down a bit (5 minutes).
3. Add Spices & Broth:
Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Return beef to the pot. Pour in beef broth to cover meat.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Thicken the Gravy:
In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp flour with 2 tbsp water to make a slurry.
Stir slurry into the stew and simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve:
Spoon over rice, into warm flour tortillas, or alongside beans and potatoes.
📊 Nutrition Facts (per serving – approx. 1/6 recipe)
Nutrient Amount Calories ~390 Protein ~35g Carbs ~8g Fat ~24g Fiber ~2g Sodium ~500mg
💡 Tips & Variations
🔥 Tips:
Low and slow is key: Simmer gently for tender meat and rich flavor.Make ahead: Carne guisada tastes even better the next day.Thicker gravy: Let it simmer uncovered longer or mash a few pieces of beef into the sauce.
🌟 Variations:
Spicy: Add jalapeños or a spoonful of chipotle in adobo for heat.Tomato-based: Use tomato sauce instead of fresh tomatoes for a smoother gravy.Beer version: Add ½ cup of beer for deeper, richer flavor.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
Warm flour tortillas (as tacos or burritos)
Steamed white or Mexican rice
Refried or charro beans
Roasted potatoes or papas con chorizo
