Carne Guisada with floor tortillas

Step 1: Prepare the Carne Guisada

1. Sear the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pot.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the spices toast and release their aromas.
4. Simmer the Beef: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and water to make a slurry. Stir this into the stew and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens into a rich gravy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
6. Remove the Bay Leaf: Discard the bay leaf before serving.

Step 2: Make the Flour Tortillas

7. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
8. Add the Shortening: Cut the shortening or lard into the flour mixture using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
9. Add Water: Gradually add the warm water to the flour mixture, stirring with a fork until a soft dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
10. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
11. Rest the Dough: Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll each one into a ball. Cover them with a damp cloth and let them rest for 15 minutes. This resting period makes the dough easier to roll out.
12. Roll Out the Tortillas: On a floured surface, roll each dough ball into a thin, round tortilla, about 8 inches in diameter.
13. Cook the Tortillas: Heat a dry skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each tortilla for about 1 minute on each side, or until lightly browned with bubbles forming. Stack the cooked tortillas on a plate and cover them with a towel to keep warm.

Serving the Carne Guisada and Tortillas

• Serve the Carne Guisada: Ladle the rich, flavorful beef stew into bowls. The gravy should be thick and packed with spices, coating the tender beef.
• Enjoy with Tortillas: Serve the warm flour tortillas on the side. Tear off pieces of the tortilla to scoop up the Carne Guisada, or use the tortillas to wrap up the meat and gravy for delicious handheld bites.
• Garnishes: Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a side of sour cream or guacamole.

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Tips for Success

• Slow Cooking for Tender Beef: To ensure the beef becomes tender and flavorful, let it cook low and slow. Rushing the cooking process will result in tougher meat.
• Customizable Tortillas: Feel free to make your tortillas larger or smaller, depending on preference. If you prefer a softer tortilla, reduce the cooking time slightly.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños to the stew.

Why Visitors Will Stay Hooked on This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. Visitors will be drawn in by the slow-cooked, aromatic Carne Guisada, and the process of making soft, homemade tortillas will keep them intrigued throughout. Each bite offers something rich and satisfying, and the homemade touch adds a sense of warmth and authenticity that will leave your guests craving more.

Conclusion

Carne Guisada with Homemade Flour Tortillas is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The rich, spicy beef paired with soft, warm tortillas creates a comforting dish that invites visitors to stay and savor every bite. Whether you’re serving this for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish will be a hit, with flavors and textures that leave a lasting impression.