The Ultimate Beef Stew (Carne Guisada)

beef

🥗Healthier: lean cuts of beef

💰Cheaper: pork

Lean cuts reduce fat intake, while pork can be more affordable.

beef broth

🥗Healthier: homemade vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable broth can be lower in calories, while water with seasoning is budget-friendly.

Cut 2 pounds of beef chuck into bite-sized cubes, about an inch to an inch and a half.

Season the beef with 1 tablespoon of Adobo seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add olive oil to coat the bottom.

Sear the beef in small batches for a few minutes per side until browned, then set aside on a plate.

Add chopped onion and a medium-sized bell pepper to the pot and cook down for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add 1/4 cup of Sofrito to the pot and cook for another minute.

Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in 1 tablespoon of oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.

Add 8 ounces of tomato sauce and 1/2 cup of water to the pot, along with 1 tablespoon of achiote oil, 1/2 cup of olives, and 1 tablespoon of capers. Stir to combine.

Return the seared beef to the pot and mix well, adding bay leaves.

Reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

After 30 minutes, add 1 pound of diced yellow potatoes and 1 large diced carrot to the pot.

Cover and let simmer for another 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the meat is cooked through.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary