If you’re craving a heartwarming, comforting, and downright delicious meal, this Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas Recipe is an absolute must-try. Tender chunks of stew beef simmered to perfection in a fragrant medley of spices, vegetables, and rich beef broth come together in a thick, savory sauce that’s perfect for scooping up with soft, warm flour tortillas. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate and brings everyone around the table for seconds and even thirds. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe delivers that authentic home-cooked flavor you’ll want to keep coming back to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one brings a unique layer of flavor, from the tender beef providing hearty richness to the spices that infuse the stew with bold warmth, and the flour tortillas that wrap it all up perfectly. Here’s what you’ll gather to make this mouthwatering dish:
- 2 pounds stew beef: Choose well-marbled beef for the best tenderness and flavor that melts in your mouth after slow cooking.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Needed for browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables to develop deep, savory notes.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a subtle pungency that enhances the overall taste.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives a fragrant punch that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Provides a slight crunch and vibrant color to the stew.
- 1 tomato, diced: Adds a touch of acidity and freshness to balance the heartiness.
- 2 teaspoons cumin: Brings deep earthy warmth that’s essential in traditional carne guisada.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: For a sweet and smoky depth that gives the sauce character.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a mild kick without overwhelming the dish’s balance.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To enhance all the flavors and bring the ingredients together.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and sharpness against the rich beef.
- 2 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid that braises the meat and forms a luscious sauce.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce, giving it that perfect gravy-like consistency.
- 10 flour tortillas: Soft, warm, and ready to scoop up every delicious bite of the carne guisada.
How to Make Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas Recipe
Step 1: Heat Your Pot
Start by preheating a large, heavy pot over medium-high heat to get it ready for searing the meat. This initial step is crucial to develop that rich, caramelized crust on the beef which builds incredible flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the vegetable oil to the hot pot, then carefully place the stew beef in batches so it doesn’t overcrowd. Brown it on all sides until it has a deep golden color. This creates the foundation for the stew’s depth.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and diced tomato. Stir everything together and cook until the vegetables soften and release their fragrant aroma, making the kitchen smell irresistible.
Step 4: Add the Spices
Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the spices coat the beef and vegetables, infusing them with a warm, complex flavor profile that’s classic to carne guisada.
Step 5: Pour in Beef Broth and Simmer
Pour the beef broth over the mixture and bring it all to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it gently simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking tenderizes the beef and allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with a bit of water to create a smooth slurry. Slowly stir this into the pot, then continue simmering for another 10 to 15 minutes. This step thickens the sauce, transforming it into that luscious gravy that clings perfectly to the meat.
Step 7: Warm the Tortillas
While the sauce thickens, heat your flour tortillas on a skillet or in the oven until they’re soft, warm, and pliable—ready to scoop up every flavorful bite of your carne guisada.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Dish out the tender, saucy beef alongside your warm flour tortillas. This is truly the moment to savor the fruits of your labor with one of the most satisfying, traditional dishes you can make at home.
How to Serve Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten every bite, consider fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime. These add a fresh contrast and lively flavor that complement the rich and hearty stew wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Pair your carne guisada with simple sides such as refried beans, Mexican rice, or a crisp green salad. Each adds texture and balance, rounding out the meal perfectly without stealing the spotlight from the star—the stew and tortillas.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve carne guisada as a taco filling topped with your favorite salsas and shredded cheese, or use it as a hearty filling for burritos. You could even spoon it over a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting fusion plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover carne guisada in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This allows you to enjoy the dish again without losing the quality and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save it for longer, freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for up to 3 months and reheats beautifully without sacrificing tenderness or taste.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the carne guisada on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may want to add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickened too much. Heat your tortillas fresh for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use a slow cooker to make this Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas Recipe?
Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker, add the broth and spices, and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Just thicken the sauce at the end as described.
What type of beef is best for carne guisada?
Stew beef or chuck roast cut into cubes works best because these cuts become tender and flavorful after slow cooking, making your carne guisada melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Can I substitute corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, corn tortillas are a great alternative if you prefer. They bring a different texture and flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich stew, though flour tortillas have that soft, pliable quality many people love for this dish.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has a mild warmth from chili powder, but you can easily adjust the spice level by adding extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne if you like your stew with more heat.
How thick should the carne guisada sauce be?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the beef and cling to your tortilla without being gluey—like a rich gravy. Adjust thickness by how much flour slurry you add and how long you simmer it at the end.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas Recipe. It’s simple to make but delivers complex, comforting flavors that bring that special homemade touch to your table. So, gather your ingredients, take your time in the kitchen, and get ready to fall in love with every bite. Your future self will thank you for this one!
