Carne Guisada with Homemade Flour Tortillas Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that feels like a warm hug, then this Carne Guisada with Homemade Flour Tortillas Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Tender, slow-cooked beef stewed in a rich, flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with soft, freshly made flour tortillas that you roll out and cook yourself. It’s a beautiful blend of simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special, comforting, and downright delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family or sharing with friends, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds and asking for your secret.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes the best dishes start with surprisingly simple ingredients, and each element here plays a starring role — from tender beef to fragrant spices and fresh vegetables, every ingredient adds a layer of flavor, texture, or color that makes this dish pop.

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck roast or brisket), cubed: The heart of the recipe, chosen for its tenderness when slow cooked.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For browning the beef and sautéing vegetables to create a flavorful base.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
• 1 bell pepper, chopped: Brings a subtle crunch and vibrant color.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the stew with savory aromatic warmth.
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped: Provide acidity and body to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Gives a warm, earthy spice that’s signature to carne guisada.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a mild heat and smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Enhances color and adds a subtle sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano: Offers a herbal note that brightens the stew.
• 1 bay leaf: Adds aromatic complexity during the simmering process.
• 1 cup beef broth (or water): Ensures tenderness and creates a luscious sauce.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor with richness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all flavors perfectly.
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, aromatic finish to each plate.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your homemade tortillas, ensuring softness.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps make the tortillas light and fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Keeps tortillas tender and easy to roll.
• ¾ cup warm water (add more if needed): Hydrates the dough to the perfect consistency.

How to Make Carne Guisada with Homemade Flour Tortillas Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating your vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Then, add the beef cubes and brown them thoroughly on all sides. This step is key because the caramelization forms a rich flavor base that makes your stew irresistible. Once browned, set the beef aside so you can sauté the vegetables in the same pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the flavorful beef drippings, toss in your chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook them gently until softened and fragrant—about 3 to 4 minutes. This mix will add sweetness and depth, creating a vibrant base for your stew.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Tomatoes

Now it’s time to add the freshly chopped tomatoes along with ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together to blend those bold, warm spices with the natural acidity of the tomatoes. Your kitchen will start smelling like something truly comforting.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

Return the browned beef to the pot, then pour in the beef broth and stir in the tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew cook slowly for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow simmer tenderizes the meat to perfection and thickens the sauce beautifully. Be sure to stir occasionally and add a bit more broth or water if needed to keep everything moist.

Step 5: Season and Remove Bay Leaf

Once the beef is tender and the sauce thickened, taste your carne guisada and season with salt and pepper. Before serving, don’t forget to fish out the bay leaf—it’s done its job by imparting flavor but isn’t meant to be eaten.

Step 6: Make the Dough for Homemade Flour Tortillas Recipe

While the stew simmers, combine your flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Add vegetable oil and warm water, mixing just until the dough begins to come together. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 4 to 5 minutes until smooth and elastic—this step is where the magic happens for soft, tender tortillas.

Step 7: Let the Dough Rest

Divide your dough into 8 to 10 equal portions and roll them into balls. Cover with a damp cloth to keep them from drying out, and let them rest for 15 to 20 minutes. This resting period makes rolling out the tortillas so much easier.

Step 8: Roll Out and Cook the Tortillas

After resting, roll each dough ball into a thin circle about 6 to 8 inches in diameter. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, then cook each tortilla for 1 to 2 minutes per side, watching for golden brown spots to appear. Keep the cooked tortillas wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to stay warm and soft.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your tender, flavorful carne guisada alongside these warm homemade flour tortillas. Garnish with fresh cilantro, and get ready to savor every delicious bite.

How to Serve Carne Guisada with Homemade Flour Tortillas Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped cilantro is the classic go-to, adding a bright, herbaceous lift that cuts through the richness of the stew. You can also sprinkle on a little diced onion or squeeze fresh lime juice for an extra zing that wakes up your palate.

Side Dishes

This carne guisada pairs beautifully with simple sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad. These sides complement the stew’s deep, savory flavors without competing with them. For something extra special, try serving with pickled jalapeños or a fresh avocado slice on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider turning this meal into a fun taco night—fill the tortillas with carne guisada, add cheese, sour cream, and your favorite salsa for a build-your-own fiesta. Or serve the stew over freshly steamed rice with a tortilla on the side to soak up all those rich juices. The possibilities are deliciously endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place your leftover carne guisada into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal. Store tortillas wrapped tightly in foil or a sealed bag to keep them soft.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, carne guisada freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. For tortillas, stack them with a piece of parchment paper in between and wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing.

Reheating

Reheat the carne guisada gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it looks dry. Warm tortillas on a skillet or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their softness before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a slow cooker for this Carne Guisada with Homemade Flour Tortillas Recipe?

Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables on the stovetop, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is tender. Then proceed with seasoning and serving as usual.

What cut of beef is best for carne guisada?

Chuck roast or brisket work best because they have enough fat and connective tissue to break down during slow cooking, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth.

Can I make the flour tortillas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and cook the tortillas a day in advance. Just reheat them wrapped in a damp cloth before serving to bring back that soft, pliable texture.

How spicy is this carne guisada?

This recipe has a mild warmth from the chili powder but isn’t overly spicy. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne if you like it hotter.

Is it okay to substitute corn tortillas instead of homemade flour tortillas?

Of course! While homemade flour tortillas are fantastic here, corn tortillas make a great alternative for a different texture and flavor. Just warm them gently before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Carne Guisada with Homemade Flour Tortillas Recipe is one of those gems that brings joy with every bite — it’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make from scratch. Trust me, once you try making those soft, warm tortillas yourself and pair them with that tender, spiced beef stew, this meal will quickly become a family favorite. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this wonderful culinary experience that’s sure to fill your kitchen with warmth and love.

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