Carne Guisada with flour tortillas

Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas Recipe

Ingredients:

For Carne Guisada:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

For Flour Tortillas:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable shortening or lard
• 3/4 cup warm water (more as needed)

Instructions:

Preparing the Carne Guisada:

1. Sear the Beef:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
   • Add the beef cubes in batches, searing them on all sides until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Build the Flavor Base:
   • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to caramelize slightly.
   • Return the beef to the pot, then pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes.
   • Add the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer:
   • 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 and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally and check if more liquid is needed; add a bit of water or additional beef broth if necessary.
5. Optional Thickening:
   • If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a little water to make a slurry. Stir it into the simmering stew and cook for an additional 10 minutes until thickened.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the carne guisada and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Preparing the Flour Tortillas:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Cut in Fat:
   • Add the vegetable shortening or lard. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Water:
   • Gradually add the warm water, stirring until the dough begins to come together. You may need a bit more or less water, so add it slowly.
4. Knead Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Roll Out Tortillas:
   • Divide the dough into 10-12 equal pieces. On a floured surface, roll each piece into a thin circle about 8-10 inches in diameter.
6. Cook Tortillas:
   • Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for about 1 minute on each side, or until small brown spots appear and the tortilla puffs slightly.
7. Keep Warm:
   • Keep the cooked tortillas warm by wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel.

To Serve:

• Spoon the carne guisada over warm flour tortillas. Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime if desired. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish with a side of rice or beans if you like!