🍲 Traditional Mexican Carne Guisada with Soft Tortillas: A Hearty Family Favorite 💛😍

Thank you so much for your continued support and enthusiasm for my recipes! Your love and feedback inspire me to keep sharing these delicious, home-cooked treasures with you. Today, I’m excited to bring you a rich and flavorful Traditional Mexican Carne Guisada paired with warm, soft tortillas—a dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings. This slow-simmered beef stew is packed with authentic spices and tender meat, making it a comforting meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this original recipe, crafted with care for you to enjoy and share with your loved ones!

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Ingredients

Gather these fresh and wholesome ingredients to create a mouthwatering Carne Guisada that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine:

• 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized chunks (choose a well-marbled cut like chuck for the best flavor and tenderness)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or substitute with olive oil for a slightly different flavor profile)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped (yellow or white onions work wonderfully here)
• 2 ripe tomatoes, diced (fresh is best, but canned diced tomatoes can be a convenient alternative)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to your taste for that aromatic kick)
• 2 cups beef broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought for a balanced taste)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (adds depth and richness to the sauce)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (a key spice for that warm, earthy flavor)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano (Mexican oregano if available, for authenticity)
• 1 bay leaf (to infuse a subtle herbaceous note)
• Salt and pepper to taste (season generously to bring out the flavors)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for a bright, fresh garnish)
• 8 small flour tortillas (homemade or store-bought, your choice!)
• Lime wedges for serving (optional, but highly recommended for a zesty finish)

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Directions

Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious Carne Guisada that’s bursting with flavor and perfectly paired with soft tortillas. Take your time to let the flavors meld—this is a labor of love!

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the 1 1/2 pounds of beef stew meat in a single layer. Allow the meat to sear undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are beautifully browned. This step locks in the juices and creates a rich base for the stew. Once browned, remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, using the flavorful browned bits left behind, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and turns translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and diced tomatoes. Let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices, creating a fragrant foundation for the dish.

Step 3: Simmer the Carne Guisada

Return the browned beef to the pot, nestling it among the sautéed vegetables. Add 2 cups of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano, 1 bay leaf, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook slowly for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally, and check that the beef becomes fork-tender and the sauce thickens into a luscious gravy-like consistency. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 4: Prepare the Tortillas

While the Carne Guisada simmers, let’s get those tortillas ready! Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place each flour tortilla on the hot surface and warm it for 1-2 minutes on each side, until lightly charred and pliable. This step enhances the tortillas’ flavor and texture, making them the perfect vessel for scooping up the stew.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the Carne Guisada is ready, ladle it generously into bowls. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve alongside the warm tortillas, and if you like a tangy kick, add lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish. The combination of tender beef, spiced sauce, and soft tortillas is simply irresistible!

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Cooking Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Kcal: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 hearty portions

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Tips for a Perfect Carne Guisada

• Slow and Steady: The long simmering time is key to tenderizing the beef and developing deep flavors. If you’re short on time, a pressure cooker can cut this down to about 30-40 minutes.
• Customize It: Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños during the sauté step for extra veggies or heat.
• Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld, making it great for meal prep!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Traditional Mexican Carne Guisada is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. The tender beef, spiced to perfection, paired with the softness of freshly warmed tortillas, creates a dining experience that’s both satisfying and soul-warming. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Thank you again for being part of this culinary journey! I’d love to hear how your Carne Guisada turns out—share your photos and tips with me! 🌮💛

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