Carne Guisada with floor tortillas

Tender Beef Stew in Rich Gravy, Served with Soft Homemade Tortillas

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that brings the flavors of South Texas or Northern Mexico straight to your table, Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas is the answer. This dish is beloved for a reason: it’s tender chunks of beef slowly stewed in a savory, slightly spicy gravy until melt-in-your-mouth soft, then tucked into warm, homemade flour tortillas.

Whether served for Sunday dinner, a casual gathering, or a midweek family meal, this recipe delivers deep flavor, comfort, and authenticity.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Cook Time: 2 hours (low simmer)

• Total Time: ~2 hours 25 minutes

• Servings: 6

• Difficulty: Moderate (basic stew technique + tortilla rolling)

Ingredients

For the Carne Guisada:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast, cut into 1″ cubes)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large green bell pepper, diced

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 ½ teaspoons cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon oregano

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 cups beef broth (or water)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)

• 1–2 jalapeños or serranos, sliced (optional, for heat)

For the Homemade Flour Tortillas:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ⅓ cup vegetable shortening or lard

• 1 cup warm water (you may not use it all)

Instructions

 Step 1: Brown the Meat

1. In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add beef in batches (don’t overcrowd) and brown on all sides. Remove browned meat to a bowl and repeat with remaining beef.

 Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. In the same pot, reduce heat to medium.

2. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté until soft (about 5 minutes).

3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

 Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

1. Stir in the flour and tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.

2. Add cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until fragrant.

 Step 4: Simmer the Guisada

1. Return the browned beef to the pot.

2. Pour in beef broth and add Worcestershire sauce (if using). Toss in sliced jalapeños or serranos if desired.

3. Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

4. Cover and simmer gently for 1½ to 2 hours, or until beef is fork-tender and sauce has thickened into a rich gravy.

5. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if needed.

How to Make the Flour Tortillas

 Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and baking powder.

2. Add shortening or lard, and use your fingers to blend until the mixture is crumbly.

3. Slowly add warm water a bit at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms (you may not need all the water).

4. Knead the dough for 5–6 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

 Step 2: Roll and Cook

1. Divide dough into 10–12 balls.

2. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin circle (about 7–8 inches).

3. Heat a dry cast iron skillet or comal over medium-high heat.

4. Cook each tortilla for 30–45 seconds per side, or until it puffs and gets brown spots.

5. Stack and cover with a clean towel to keep warm and soft.

Assembly & Serving

Spoon the rich carne guisada into warm tortillas. Serve simply with:

• Chopped onions & cilantro

• Shredded cheese

• Avocado or guacamole

• Refried beans or rice on the side

Wrap, fold, or eat with a fork—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this dish!

Tips & Variations

• Meat choice: Chuck roast is best for tenderness, but sirloin or round can work in a pinch.

• Spice it up: Add chipotle in adobo for smoky heat, or more chili powder to taste.

• Make ahead: Carne guisada tastes even better the next day and freezes well.

• Tortilla swap: If you’re short on time, use store-bought tortillas—but homemade really makes the meal!

Nutrition Info (Per Serving – approx. 1/6 of recipe, with 2 tortillas)

Note: Nutrition varies based on fat content, tortilla thickness, and toppings.

Difficulty & Time Intensity

• Skill Level: Moderate (especially with homemade tortillas)

• Time Commitment: ~2.5 hours, mostly hands-off

• Best For: Cozy family dinners, casual entertaining, or next-day leftovers

🇲🇽 Why You’ll Love This Carne Guisada

• Deep, rich flavor with minimal ingredients

• Authentic Tex-Mex style, made at home

• Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep

• Customizable spice levels and toppings

• Pairs perfectly with homemade tortillas