Carne Guisada with floor tortillas

by

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Introduction

Carne Guisada is a comforting Mexican and Tex-Mex beef stew made with tender chunks of beef slowly simmered in a rich tomato and chile gravy until melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s traditionally served with warm homemade flour tortillas, perfect for scooping up the flavorful sauce.

This hearty dish is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Carne Guisada

Beef

  • 2½ pounds (1.1 kg) beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced

Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 bay leaves

Liquid

  • 2 cups beef broth
  • ½ cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

Garnish

  • Fresh chopped cilantro
  • Lime wedges

For Homemade Flour Tortillas

Ingredients

  • 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ⅓ cup vegetable shortening or lard
  • 1 cup warm water

Equipment

  • Dutch oven or heavy pot
  • Rolling pin
  • Cast-iron skillet or griddle
  • Mixing bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Pat the beef dry with paper towels.

Season with:

  • Salt
  • Pepper

Lightly coat the beef cubes with the 2 tablespoons of flour.

This helps create a richer gravy.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Brown the beef in batches for about 4–5 minutes per batch.

Do not overcrowd the pot.

Transfer the browned beef to a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot add:

  • Onion
  • Bell pepper

Cook for about 5 minutes.

Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook until softened.

Step 4: Add the Seasonings

Mix in:

  • Cumin
  • Chili powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Oregano
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Cayenne (if using)

Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Build the Stew

Return the beef to the pot.

Add:

  • Beef broth
  • Tomato sauce
  • Tomato paste
  • Bay leaves

Stir well.

Bring to a gentle boil.

Reduce heat to low.

Cover and simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender.

If the gravy becomes too thick, add a little extra beef broth.

Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Homemade Flour Tortillas

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl combine:

  • Flour
  • Salt
  • Baking powder

Cut in the shortening using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Gradually add the warm water while mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Cover with a towel and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Divide

Divide the dough into 10–12 equal balls.

Cover to prevent drying.

Step 4: Roll

Roll each ball into an 8-inch circle.

Dust lightly with flour as needed.

Step 5: Cook

Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook each tortilla for:

  • 30–45 seconds on the first side
  • 20–30 seconds on the second side

Flip once bubbles appear.

Keep cooked tortillas wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to stay soft.

Serve

Serve the hot Carne Guisada with:

  • Fresh homemade flour tortillas
  • Mexican rice
  • Refried beans
  • Sliced avocado
  • Pico de gallo
  • Pickled jalapeños
  • Lime wedges

Spoon the beef and gravy into a warm tortilla, fold, and enjoy taco-style, or serve the stew in a bowl with tortillas on the side.

Storage

Refrigerator

Store the stew in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Homemade tortillas can be refrigerated in a sealed bag for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze the stew for up to 3 months.

Freeze tortillas with parchment paper between each one for up to 2 months.

Tips for the Best Carne Guisada

  • Beef chuck roast becomes the most tender after slow simmering.
  • Brown the beef well for a deeper, richer flavor.
  • Simmer low and slow—don’t rush the cooking time.
  • Let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving so the gravy thickens slightly.
  • Freshly made flour tortillas are softer and more flavorful than store-bought ones.

Variations

Spicy Carne Guisada

Add 1–2 diced jalapeños or serrano peppers while cooking the onions.

Slow Cooker Version

After browning the beef, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 4–5 hours.

Instant Pot Version

Brown the beef using the Sauté function, add the remaining ingredients, then pressure cook on High for 35 minutes with a 15-minute natural release.

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving, Including 2 Flour Tortillas)

  • Calories: 690
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fat: 40 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 840 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of beef is best for Carne Guisada?
Beef chuck roast is the traditional choice because its marbling breaks down during slow cooking, producing tender meat and a rich gravy.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Carne Guisada often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Can I use store-bought tortillas?
Absolutely. However, homemade flour tortillas provide the soft texture and fresh flavor that make this meal especially authentic.

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