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Carne Guisada with Homemade Flour Tortillas

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(Traditional Mexican Beef Stew with Soft Homemade Tortillas)

Tender chunks of beef are slow-simmered in a rich, savory gravy with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and warm spices, then served with soft, homemade flour tortillas. This comforting Mexican classic is perfect for wrapping, dipping, and soaking up every last bit of the flavorful sauce.

Ingredients

For the Carne Guisada:

  • 2½ pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For the Homemade Flour Tortillas:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ⅓ cup lard, shortening, or butter
  • 1 cup warm water (plus more if needed)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Tortilla Dough

In a large bowl combine:

  • Flour
  • Salt
  • Baking powder

Cut in the lard or shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Gradually add warm water and knead until a soft, smooth dough forms.

Cover and let rest for:

30 minutes

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.

Brown the beef in batches until well seared.

Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same pot, cook:

  • Onion

for about 5 minutes.

Add:

  • Garlic

Cook for 30 seconds.

Stir in:

  • Flour
  • Tomato paste

Cook for 1 minute.

Add:

  • Tomatoes
  • Beef broth
  • Cumin
  • Chili powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Oregano
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Bay leaves

Return the beef to the pot.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring to a gentle boil.

Reduce heat to low.

Cover and simmer for:

1½–2 hours

until the beef is fork-tender and the gravy has thickened.

Stir in lime juice before serving.

Step 5: Cook the Tortillas

Divide dough into:

10–12 balls

Roll each into a thin circle about 8 inches wide.

Cook on a hot dry skillet or comal for:

30–60 seconds per side

until lightly browned with golden spots.

Keep warm in a clean kitchen towel.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the carne guisada with warm flour tortillas.

Top with:

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Diced onion
  • Lime wedges

Extra Tips & Secrets ✨

✅ Chuck roast is the best cut because it becomes tender after slow cooking.

✅ Brown the beef well for a deeper, richer flavor.

✅ Let the tortillas rest after kneading for softer, easier-to-roll dough.

✅ The stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors have developed.

Delicious Variations

🌶️ Green Chile Carne Guisada

Add:

  • Roasted Hatch green chiles
  • Jalapeños

🥔 Carne Guisada with Potatoes

Add:

  • 2 cups diced potatoes during the last 30 minutes of cooking

🫑 Tex-Mex Style

Add:

  • Bell peppers
  • Extra cumin
  • Fresh tomatoes

🧀 Cheesy Carne Guisada Tacos

Serve with:

  • Shredded cheddar
  • Monterey Jack cheese

🌮 Carne Guisada Burritos

Wrap the stew in large flour tortillas with:

  • Rice
  • Beans
  • Cheese

Serving Ideas

Serve with:

🍚 Mexican rice
🫘 Refried beans
🥑 Guacamole
🌽 Mexican street corn
🥗 Fresh salad
🌶️ Homemade salsa

Storage

Refrigerator:
Store the stew in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:
Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:
Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate)

Per serving (with tortillas):

  • Calories: 650–800 kcal
  • Protein: 40–50 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40–50 g
  • Fat: 30–40 g

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: What cut of beef is best for carne guisada?
A: Chuck roast is the traditional choice because it becomes incredibly tender after slow cooking.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! After browning the beef, cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 4–5 hours.

Q: Can I use store-bought tortillas?
A: Absolutely, but homemade flour tortillas provide the most authentic flavor and texture.

Q: Why is my gravy too thin?
A: Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or whisk 1 tablespoon of flour with a little cold water and stir it into the stew.

Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Yes! Add diced jalapeños, serrano peppers, or your favorite hot sauce.

Social Media Caption Ideas ❤️

Option 1:
“Made Carne Guisada with homemade flour tortillas, and it was pure comfort food! 🥩🌮 Tender beef simmered in rich gravy with warm, soft tortillas fresh off the skillet.”

Option 2:
“Nothing beats a homemade Mexican classic! 😍 Slow-cooked carne guisada paired with fresh flour tortillas makes the perfect family meal.”

Option 3:
“From scratch is always worth it! 🌮✨ Rich, hearty carne guisada served with soft homemade tortillas for the ultimate comforting dinner.”

🥩🌮 Carne Guisada with Homemade Flour Tortillas is a timeless Mexican comfort meal—slow-cooked, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family and friends! ❤️

✕

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