Every time I make this Dominican Stew Beef, or Carne Guisada, my kitchen fills with an inviting aroma that feels like a warm hug. The tender chunks of beef simmer slowly, absorbing a symphony of spices and the sweetness of sautéed onions and peppers. It’s those comforting scents that transport me back to family gatherings where laughter and love mingled with delicious food. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of tradition, an experience that brings people together around the table.
Picture this: with just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dish that melts in your mouth while delivering a robust and rich flavor that will impress even the harshest critics. Paired with fluffy rice and stewed beans, Carne Guisada is not just a delicious choice—it’s a hearty family favorite perfect for sharing moments and creating memories. Whether you’re tired of repetitive weeknight meals or simply craving something heartwarming, this recipe aims to delight your palate and elevate your dinner game. Join me as we delve into the art of making this beloved Dominican classic!
Why is Carne Guisada a Must-Try?
Tender beef simmered to perfection: The slow cooking process ensures each bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Flavors that pop: The rich sauce, infused with garlic, lime, and adobo, creates a delightful taste that’s addictively savory.
Family-friendly appeal: This dish is a hit for all ages, making it an ideal choice for gatherings and celebrations.
Versatile serving options: Serve it over rice or with stewed beans—pair it however your heart desires!
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your friends and family, as they’ll be asking for seconds (and thirds!) with every mouthwatering bite.
Easy ingredients: Most are pantry staples, making it a breeze to whip up at a moment’s notice.
Carne Guisada Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade
- Beef Round – Main protein; provides tenderness when slow-cooked. Substitute with beef chuck for a richer flavor.
- White Vinegar – Cleans the meat; helps in tenderizing. Can use lemon juice as an alternative.
- Soy Sauce – Adds umami flavor and depth to the dish. Use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- Lime Juice – Provides acidity that brightens the flavors. Any citrus juice can work as a substitute.
- Adobo – A flavorful spice blend that enhances the beef. Skip for a milder taste or use all-purpose seasoning.
- Crushed Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic is recommended for the best taste.
- Dried Oregano – Contributes herbal notes. Use fresh oregano if available.
For the Stew Base
- Vegetable Oil – For sautéing; can substitute with olive oil or any cooking oil.
- Granulated Sugar – Used to caramelize for color; can omit or substitute with brown sugar.
- Tomato Paste – Thickens the sauce and adds richness. Substitute with pureed tomatoes for a fresher taste.
- Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow or white onion works well.
- Cubanelle Pepper – Adds mild sweetness and color; bell peppers can be used instead.
- Red Bell Pepper – For sweetness and color. Other colored bell peppers can be swapped in.
For Garnishing
- Fresh Cilantro – For garnish and fresh flavor. Can substitute with parsley for a different herb influence.
Dive into the world of Carne Guisada and prepare for a delightful culinary adventure that brings your family together!
How to Make Carne Guisada
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Prep Beef: Soak cubed beef in water with white vinegar for 15 minutes, then rinse and pat dry. This step helps to clean and tenderize the meat for the perfect stew texture.
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Marinate: Season the beef with soy sauce, crushed garlic, adobo, oregano, and lime juice. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour to absorb all the delicious flavors.
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Caramelize Sugar: In a Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil and granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar caramelizes to a nice brown, giving depth to your sauce.
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Brown Beef: Add the marinated beef to the pot. Brown it on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, allowing it to develop that rich flavor we adore in carne guisada.
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Combine Flavors: Stir in the tomato paste, coating the beef evenly. This thickens the sauce and adds a robust flavor that makes this dish so savory.
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Simmer: Pour in 1 cup of water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, adding more water gradually to keep the meat tender, cooking for about 45-60 minutes total.
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Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onions and both cubanelle and red bell peppers. Cover and simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and flavorful.
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Garnish and Serve: Stir in the fresh cilantro and let your delicious carne guisada sit briefly. Serve it hot with fluffy rice and stewed beans for a perfect family meal.
Optional: Fresh lime wedges make a lovely garnish for an extra citrusy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Carne Guisada
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the carne guisada in meal-sized portions. Place it in airtight freezer bags or containers and enjoy within 2-3 months for the best flavor.
Thawing: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quicker option. Remember to stir well after reheating to distribute the sauce evenly.
Make-Ahead: You can make carne guisada ahead of time for easy entertaining. Just store it properly, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Make Ahead Options
These Tender Dominican Carne Guisada are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the beef up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply for an even richer taste. To do this, simply follow the marinade instructions and store the beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the vegetables can be chopped up to 3 days ahead and kept in the fridge to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, brown the beef and combine the ingredients as usual. This not only saves time but ensures that your carne guisada is just as delicious when served!
Carne Guisada Variations
Feel free to personalize this beloved dish and make it your own with these tasty variations!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a zesty twist.
- Pork Option: Substitute beef with tender pork shoulder for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that still delights.
- Chicken Delight: Swap beef for chicken thighs, marinating in the same flavors for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with hearty mushrooms or jackfruit, simmering in the same rich sauce for a plant-based treat.
- Citrus Burst: For a brighter flavor, incorporate orange juice into the marinade along with lime juice.
- Creamy Sauce: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving for added richness.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves during the simmering stage for an aromatic lift.
- Sweet & Savory: Add a few chopped dates or raisins to the stew for a delightful sweetness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Expert Tips for Perfect Carne Guisada
- Marination Magic: Always marinate your beef for at least one hour; this step infuses the meat with flavor and ensures a tender result in your carne guisada.
- Watch the Sugar: Keep a close eye on caramelizing the sugar to avoid burning. A dark brown color is ideal for adding depth to your sauce.
- Gradual Water Addition: Add water gradually while simmering to keep the beef fully covered, ensuring maximum tenderness throughout the cooking process.
- Thick Sauce Trick: For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last simmering phase. This allows excess moisture to evaporate, enriching the flavors.
- Vegetable Variation: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like carrots or potatoes; they’ll absorb the sauce’s flavors and add extra nutrition to your carne guisada.
What to Serve with Tender Dominican Carne Guisada?
Set the stage for a delightful meal that will transport you straight to the heart of the Caribbean.
- Fluffy White Rice: A classic pairing, its soft texture soaks up the rich sauce beautifully, balancing the robust flavors of the stew.
- Stewed Beans: Habichuelas guisadas offer a hearty complement, with creamy textures and a hint of sweetness that contrasts perfectly with carne guisada.
- Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp vegetables tossed in a tangy vinaigrette add refreshing contrast, lightening the meal while enhancing the dish’s vibrant flavors.
- Fried Plantains: Sweet and caramelized, these golden treasures bring a delightful crunch and an added sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the savory stew.
- Tostones: These twice-fried green plantains offer a crispy texture that complements the tender beef, adding an enjoyable crunch to every bite.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy, rich, and full of flavor, avocado served on the side rounds out the dish, adding a smooth finish that balances out the spices.
- Coconut Flan: A silky dessert, this sweet treat provides a creamy counterpart to the substantial beef, making for a perfect ending to your meal.
- Classic Merengue: A refreshing cocktail, its fruity and light essence cools the palate, enhancing the overall dining experience with a touch of Caribbean zest.
Carne Guisada Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my beef is the right cut for carne guisada?
Absolutely! For carne guisada, I recommend using beef round or chuck cuts. The chuck provides a richer flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked, while beef round is leaner. Look for cuts with good marbling, as this helps keep the meat juicy during cooking. If you’re looking for alternatives, pork shoulder can also work well for a different flavor!
What’s the best way to store leftover carne guisada?
Very simple! Store your carne guisada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove with a splash of water to maintain that luscious sauce consistency.
Can I freeze carne guisada for later?
Yes! To freeze carne guisada, divide it into meal-sized portions and place it in airtight freezer bags or containers. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, reheat gently while stirring to ensure even warming.
What if my carne guisada sauce is too thin?
No worries! If you find your sauce is too thin after simmering, just remove the lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it quickly if needed. This will add a nice sheen and help coat the beef beautifully!
What should I do if I have a family member with soy allergies?
Great question! For those avoiding soy, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari, which is often gluten-free, or try coconut aminos as a soy-free alternative. For even more flavor, a mixture of vinegar and broth can be used to keep the dish flavorful without soy.
Can I use different vegetables in the carne guisada?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced carrots or potatoes to the stew; they absorb those wonderful flavors beautifully. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces and add them with the onions and peppers so they cook evenly together. The more, the merrier when it comes to veggies!
Savory Carne Guisada: A Hearty Taste of Dominican Home Cooking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak cubed beef in water with white vinegar for 15 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
- Season the beef with soy sauce, crushed garlic, adobo, oregano, and lime juice. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour.
- In a Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil and granulated sugar over medium heat until the sugar caramelizes.
- Add the marinated beef to the pot and brown it on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste, coating the beef evenly.
- Pour in 1 cup of water and bring it to a gentle simmer, cooking uncovered for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped onions and both cubanelle and red bell peppers. Cover and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Stir in the fresh cilantro and serve hot with fluffy rice and stewed beans.