Carne guisada, a traditional Mexican beef stew, is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The name “carne guisada” literally translates to “stewed meat” in Spanish, which aptly describes the tender and juicy beef that’s slow-cooked in a rich and spicy broth. In this article, we’ll show you how to make delicious carne guisada in a slow cooker, so you can enjoy this hearty Mexican stew with minimal effort.
The Origins of Carne Guisada
Carne guisada is a staple dish in Mexican cuisine, particularly in the northern regions of the country. The dish is believed to have originated from the traditional Mexican recipe for beef stew, which was influenced by Spanish and indigenous cuisines. Over time, carne guisada has evolved into a unique and flavorful dish that’s distinct from other types of beef stew.
Regional Variations of Carne Guisada
While carne guisada is a popular dish throughout Mexico, there are regional variations that reflect the local ingredients and cooking styles. For example:
- In the northern region of Sonora, carne guisada is made with beef, potatoes, and carrots, and is often served with warm flour tortillas.
- In the central region of Mexico City, carne guisada is made with beef, onions, garlic, and chipotle peppers, and is often served with steamed rice and beans.
- In the southern region of Oaxaca, carne guisada is made with beef, hominy, and epazote, and is often served with warm corn tortillas.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make delicious carne guisada in a slow cooker, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 2 pounds beef brisket or beef shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large potato, peeled and chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 dried arbol chilies, stemmed and seeded
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Slow cooker (at least 6-quart capacity)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
For carne guisada, it’s best to use a tougher cut of beef that’s rich in connective tissue, such as beef brisket or beef shank. These cuts of beef are perfect for slow cooking, as they become tender and flavorful with long cooking times.
Preparing the Ingredients
Before cooking, make sure to prepare the ingredients according to the following steps:
- Cut the beef into 2-inch pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Chop the onion, garlic, potato, carrots, and red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.
- Stem and seed the dried arbol chilies, and soak them in hot water for at least 30 minutes.
- Drain and chop the soaked chilies, and set them aside.
Cooking the Carne Guisada
To cook the carne guisada, follow these steps:
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the chopped potato, carrots, and red bell pepper to the skillet, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the browned beef, soaked chilies, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet, and stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker, and add the beef broth, water, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours.
Shredding the Beef
After 8-10 hours of cooking, the beef should be tender and easily shredded with a fork. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the slow cooker.
Simmering the Broth
Continue to simmer the broth for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
Serving the Carne Guisada
To serve the carne guisada, follow these steps:
- Warm flour or corn tortillas according to your preference.
- Spoon the carne guisada onto a tortilla, and top with chopped cilantro, onion, and sour cream (if desired).
- Serve the carne guisada with steamed rice, beans, or roasted vegetables (if desired).
Traditional Serving Suggestions
In Mexico, carne guisada is often served with warm flour tortillas, steamed rice, and beans. Here are some traditional serving suggestions:
- Serve the carne guisada with warm flour tortillas, and top with chopped onion, cilantro, and sour cream.
- Serve the carne guisada with steamed rice, beans, and roasted vegetables.
- Serve the carne guisada with warm corn tortillas, and top with chopped cilantro, onion, and salsa.
Conclusion
Carne guisada is a delicious and hearty Mexican stew that’s perfect for any occasion. By following the recipe outlined in this article, you can make delicious carne guisada in a slow cooker with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it with warm flour tortillas, steamed rice, and beans, or with roasted vegetables and salsa, carne guisada is sure to become a favorite dish in your household.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the best carne guisada:
- Use a variety of chilies, such as arbol, guajillo, or chipotle, to add depth and heat to the broth.
- Add diced potatoes, carrots, or zucchini to the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use beef broth or stock instead of water for added richness and flavor.
- Add a splash of vinegar or lime juice to the broth for added brightness and flavor.
- Serve the carne guisada with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of queso fresco for added creaminess and flavor.
By following these tips and variations, you can make delicious carne guisada that’s tailored to your taste preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, carne guisada is a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
What is Carne Guisada and where does it originate from?
Carne Guisada is a traditional Mexican stew that is made with slow-cooked beef, vegetables, and spices. The name “Carne Guisada” literally translates to “stewed meat” in Spanish, which accurately describes the dish. This hearty stew is a staple in Mexican cuisine and is often served at family gatherings and special occasions.
The origins of Carne Guisada can be traced back to the state of Chihuahua in northern Mexico, where it is believed to have been created by the Tarahumara people. The dish was originally made with tougher cuts of beef that were slow-cooked in a broth with vegetables and spices to make it tender and flavorful. Over time, Carne Guisada spread throughout Mexico and has since become a popular dish throughout the country.
What are the main ingredients in Slow Cooker Carne Guisada?
The main ingredients in Slow Cooker Carne Guisada include beef brisket or beef shank, onions, garlic, dried arbol chilies, beef broth, and spices such as cumin and oregano. The beef is slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful broth with the onions, garlic, and chilies, which gives the stew its signature flavor. The spices add depth and warmth to the dish, making it perfect for cold winter nights.
In addition to the main ingredients, some recipes may also include other vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and zucchini. These vegetables add texture and flavor to the stew, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. Some recipes may also include other spices and seasonings, such as paprika and cilantro, to give the stew an extra boost of flavor.
How do I prepare the dried arbol chilies for the recipe?
To prepare the dried arbol chilies for the recipe, start by rinsing them in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, remove the stems and seeds from the chilies and place them in a bowl. Cover the chilies with hot water and let them soak for about 20-30 minutes, or until they become soft and pliable.
Once the chilies are soft, remove them from the water and chop them into small pieces. You can then add the chopped chilies to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. If you prefer a milder stew, you can use just one or two chilies, or you can use more if you prefer a spicier stew.
Can I make Slow Cooker Carne Guisada in a Dutch oven or on the stovetop?
While the recipe is specifically designed for a slow cooker, you can also make Slow Cooker Carne Guisada in a Dutch oven or on the stovetop. To make it in a Dutch oven, brown the beef and cook the onions and garlic in the pot, then add the remaining ingredients and cover the pot. Transfer the pot to the oven and cook at 300°F (150°C) for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
To make it on the stovetop, brown the beef and cook the onions and garlic in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Keep in mind that cooking the stew on the stovetop or in a Dutch oven will require more attention and stirring than cooking it in a slow cooker.
How do I serve Slow Cooker Carne Guisada?
Slow Cooker Carne Guisada is typically served with warm flour or corn tortillas, which are used to scoop up the tender beef and flavorful broth. You can also serve it with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a side salad. Some people like to add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top of the stew for extra flavor.
In Mexico, Carne Guisada is often served at family gatherings and special occasions, such as weddings and holidays. It’s a hearty and comforting dish that is sure to please a crowd. You can also serve it at casual gatherings, such as game day parties or potlucks.
Can I make Slow Cooker Carne Guisada ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Slow Cooker Carne Guisada ahead of time. In fact, the stew is often better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. To make it ahead of time, cook the stew in the slow cooker as directed, then let it cool and refrigerate or freeze it.
To reheat the stew, simply place it in the slow cooker and cook on low for about 30 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly. You can also reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven. If you’re freezing the stew, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop.
Is Slow Cooker Carne Guisada spicy?
Slow Cooker Carne Guisada can be spicy, depending on the type and amount of chilies used in the recipe. The dried arbol chilies add a moderate level of heat to the stew, but you can adjust the level of heat to your liking by using more or fewer chilies.
If you prefer a milder stew, you can use just one or two chilies, or you can omit the seeds and membranes, which contain most of the heat. If you prefer a spicier stew, you can use more chilies or add other spicy ingredients, such as diced jalapenos or serrano peppers.