Carne Guisada with flour tortillas

Carne Guisada with Homemade Flour Tortillas

Carne Guisada is a classic Tex-Mex dish featuring tender beef simmered in a flavorful gravy made from aromatic spices and vegetables. Paired with soft, warm flour tortillas, this dish makes for a hearty and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

For the Carne Guisada:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup water (add more as needed)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Salt to taste

For the Flour Tortillas:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup lard or vegetable shortening
• ¾ cup warm water

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Carne Guisada:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef stew meat and sear on all sides until browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the meat. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using). Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spices are well incorporated and the tomatoes begin to break down.
6. Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, water, and bay leaf. Stir well.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally and check the liquid level, adding more water if needed to keep the meat submerged.
8. Once the beef is tender, make a slurry with the flour and a few tablespoons of water. Stir the slurry into the stew to thicken the gravy. Let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
9. Adjust seasoning with salt to taste, then remove the bay leaf.

2. Making the Flour Tortillas:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Cut in the lard or shortening using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions and roll each into a ball.
5. On a floured surface, roll each ball into a thin, round tortilla.
6. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for 30-60 seconds on each side, until bubbles form and they are lightly browned.
7. Keep the tortillas warm in a towel until ready to serve.

Serving:

Serve the Carne Guisada with the warm flour tortillas. You can spoon the meat and gravy into the tortillas for soft tacos or serve them on the side to mop up the delicious gravy. Add toppings like fresh cilantro, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

This hearty dish is perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends, bringing authentic Tex-Mex flavors right to your table!