Learn how to make a classic Puerto Rican carne guisada with this authentic recipe. Carne guisada is a traditional Puerto Rican beef stew that is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. This recipe uses tender chunks of beef, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato-based sauce to create a comforting and delicious dish. Serve it with white rice and enjoy the taste of Puerto Rico at home!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon sofrito (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the beef stew meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the diced bell peppers to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened.
- Return the browned beef stew meat to the pot.
- Sprinkle the ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and bay leaf over the meat and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir in the sofrito if using.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the pot and simmer the carne guisada over low heat for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Serve the carne guisada hot over white rice.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Carne guisada is a staple dish in Puerto Rican cuisine and is often served at family gatherings and special occasions.
The use of sofrito, a mixture of onions, peppers, garlic, and herbs, adds a unique and delicious flavor to the dish.
Carne guisada is best enjoyed with a side of Puerto Rican style white rice, which is cooked with olive oil and salt.