Carne Guisada with Flour Tortillas

Tender beef stew simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy, served with warm homemade flour tortillas. This classic Tex-Mex dish is perfect for a comforting family meal.

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Ingredients

For the Carne Guisada:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Flour Tortillas:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/3 cup vegetable shortening or lard
• 1 cup warm water

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Instructions

Make the Carne Guisada:

1. Sear the Beef:
   Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
   Add the onion and bell pepper to the pot and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Build the Gravy:
   Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the beef broth to create a smooth gravy.
4. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
   Return the beef to the pot, and add tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
5. Simmer:
   Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the gravy has thickened.

Make the Flour Tortillas:

1. Mix the Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add Water:
   Gradually add warm water, mixing with a fork until the dough comes together. Knead for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
3. Rest the Dough:
   Divide the dough into 12 equal balls, cover with a towel, and let rest for 30 minutes.
4. Roll Out:
   On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin, round tortilla about 8 inches in diameter.
5. Cook the Tortillas:
   Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for about 1 minute per side until lightly browned and puffed. Keep warm in a towel.

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Notes

• Beef Options: Use chuck roast or another well-marbled cut for tender results.
• Make-Ahead: The Carne Guisada tastes even better the next day. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

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Nutrition (Per Serving, Including 2 Tortillas)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g