Carne con Papas – Mexican Style Beef and Potatoes Stew

Carne con Papas is a comforting, rustic Mexican dish that brings together tender beef, soft potatoes, and bold, homey flavors in a rich tomato-based broth. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul — simple yet deeply satisfying. This stew is a favorite in many Mexican households, often passed down through generations and enjoyed with warm tortillas or a side of rice. Whether made for a cozy weeknight dinner or a Sunday family gathering, this dish delivers pure comfort in every spoonful.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round, cut into bite-sized cubes)

• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 4 Roma tomatoes, blended or 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for depth)

• 2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon oregano

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1-2 jalapeños or serrano peppers, sliced (optional for heat)

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• Instructions:

  1. Sear the Beef:
     In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

  2. Sauté Aromatics:
     In the same pot, lower heat to medium. Add onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

  3. Build the Sauce:
     Stir in the blended tomatoes or tomato sauce and tomato paste. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens and darkens in color.

  4. Add Seasonings:
     Return beef to the pot. Add cumin, oregano, paprika (if using), salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir to coat the meat.

  5. Simmer:
     Pour in the beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Cover and cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.

  6. Add Potatoes:
     Stir in the potatoes and sliced peppers (if using). Continue simmering another 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

  7. Taste and Adjust:
     Taste for seasoning and adjust salt or spice level as needed.

  8. Serve:
     Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve hot with warm flour tortillas, Mexican rice, or a slice of crusty bread.

     Tips:

     • For added depth, roast the tomatoes before blending.

     • You can add carrots or green beans for a variation.

     • Leftovers taste even better the next day!

     • Let me know if you want a slow cooker version or how to store/freeze it!