These Easy Traditional Carne Guisada Tacos are a treat! Filled with tender beef simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce, they are a perfect mix of comfort and deliciousness.
When I make these, my kitchen smells incredible, and I can’t help but sneak a taco or two before serving! They’re super easy to whip up for taco night.
Serve them with your favorite toppings like avocado or salsa, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to satisfy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This is the star of your tacos! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend chuck roast. However, you can also use brisket or even ground beef if that’s what you have on hand.
Carne Guisada Seasoning: If you don’t have a packet, homemade is easy! Mix cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. This gives you a tasty and fresh blend. Feel free to adjust spices to suit your taste.
Beef Broth: You can use homemade broth or a low-sodium store-bought option. If you’re in a pinch, water works as well, but it’ll be less flavorful. If you don’t eat beef, chicken broth is a good substitute.
Tortillas: I usually opt for corn tortillas for that authentic taste, but flour tortillas are just as good. If you want a gluten-free option, look for corn tortillas made without any wheat.
How Do You Make the Beef Tender and Flavorful?
The secret to tender beef in carne guisada is to allow it to simmer low and slow. This breaks down the collagen in tougher cuts of meat, making it melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Here’s how to do it:
- After browning the beef, make sure to cover the pot while it simmers; this keeps the moisture in.
- Low heat is key! Keep the temperature low enough for a gentle simmer.
- Be patient! Cooking time can range from 1.5 to 2 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavor you’ll extract.
- For a thick sauce, remember to sprinkle some flour if it seems too runny after cook time.
By following these tips, you’ll have flavorful, tender carne guisada perfect for your tacos! Enjoy your cooking experience!
How to Make Easy Traditional Carne Guisada Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (or about 2 tbsp) carne guisada seasoning (or a homemade blend: cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is a bit of a time investment, taking about 15 minutes of prep time and 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time. The slow simmer is key for tender beef and rich flavors, so it’s well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, carefully remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions. Sauté until they are translucent, about 3 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
3. Season the Beef:
Sprinkle the carne guisada seasoning over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Return the browned beef to the skillet and mix it in with the seasoning.
4. Add Beef Broth:
Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any tasty browned bits that stuck. This adds extra flavor to the dish!
5. Simmer the Beef:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You want the beef to become tender and soak up all the delicious flavors.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
If you find the sauce is too thin after simmering, sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stir well, and cook uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
7. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. It should be flavorful and ready for the tacos!
8. Serve the Tacos:
Warm up your tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Spoon the carne guisada mixture onto each tortilla, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick.
Enjoy your traditional, hearty carne guisada tacos! They’re sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Traditional Carne Guisada Tacos
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is ideal for this recipe, you can also use chuck roast, brisket, or even ground beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly if using ground beef, as it cooks much faster.
What Can I Use Instead of Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. In a pinch, using water is fine, but it may be less flavorful, so consider adding extra seasonings if you go this route.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! Carne guisada flavors deepen over time, making it perfect for preparing in advance. You can make it a day or two ahead and warm it up when you’re ready to serve. Just remember to keep it refrigerated!
