Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this slow cooker Carne Guisada recipe! This classic Texan dish is bursting with rich, savory flavors and tender chunks of beef, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; your slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you with a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort. This recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes achievable through homemade cooking, offering a healthy meal option too. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Corn tortillas or rice (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef (Optional but Recommended)
For a deeper, richer flavor, start by browning the beef cubes. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the beef on all sides, then set aside. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a lovely depth of flavor to your final dish.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Slow Cooker Magic
Transfer the sautéed vegetables and browned beef to your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes (both cans), beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Slow Cooking to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful your Carne Guisada will become.
Step 5: Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve your Carne Guisada hot with warm corn tortillas for a classic presentation, or alongside fluffy rice for a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe makes excellent leftovers too!
Tips and Variations:
- For a thicker sauce: Remove about a cup of the cooking liquid before serving and simmer it in a saucepan until it reduces and thickens.
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add some beans: A can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or pinto beans adds extra heartiness and protein.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with your favorite sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, guacamole, and sour cream.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Carne Guisada recipe is a testament to the ease and deliciousness of slow cooker recipes. It’s a simple yet impressive dish perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Enjoy this quick dinner idea that offers a healthy and flavorful meal for the whole family! This is truly one of the best recipes for a comforting and satisfying meal, showcasing the versatility of easy recipes and homemade cooking.