Carne guisada, a hearty and flavorful Latin American stew, showcases tender beef simmered to perfection in a rich, savory sauce. This beloved dish is made by braising chunks of beef in a blend of onions, garlic, bell peppers, and a mix of spices, creating a deeply satisfying flavor profile.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (cut into cubes)
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 bell peppers (chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1/2 cup water (for thickening)
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices:
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, dried oregano, and bay leaves. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix the flour with the water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the pot and cook for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Enjoy your carne guisada with rice, tortillas, or your favorite side dishes!