Carne Guisada (Mexican Beef Stew)

Ingredients:

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into bite-sized chunks
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 small jalapeño, whole (optional, for extra flavor)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)

For Serving:

Mexican rice
Warm flour tortillas
Whole fresh jalapeño

Instructions:

Sear the Beef:

Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown beef chunks in batches, then remove and set aside.

Build the Gravy:

In the same pot, sauté onions until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Stir in flour, cooking for 1 minute to create a roux.

Simmer the Stew:

Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Stir in tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Return beef to the pot, add whole jalapeño, and bring to a simmer.

Cover and cook on low heat for 1.5–2 hours until beef is tender.

Serve & Garnish:

Remove jalapeño, adjust seasoning, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serve hot with Mexican rice, warm tortillas, and a fresh jalapeño on the side.

Enjoy!