As autumn arrives, I start to miss my grandmother’s carne picada. This Mexican beef stew is full of teGrowing up in a Mexican-American home, the smell of sizzling carne molida was always exciting. It meant something tasty was cooking. From comforting stews to colorful tostadas, this ingredient was a big part of our meals.
As I got older, I loved carne molida even more. It’s rich history and many uses in cooking are amazing. In this article, we’ll look at carne molida’s origins and how to use it in your cooking.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to Mexican food, you’ll find lots of ideas here. We’ll share tips to make your carne molida dishes even better. So, let’s start exploring the tasty world of carne molida!nder meat and spices. It’s a family favorite that brings back happy memories and warms my heart.
Carne picada means “chopped meat” in Spanish. It’s a dish that turns simple ingredients into a flavorful feast. With its juicy beef, sautéed veggies, and special spices, it’s both comforting and delicious. If you want to try something new or just love Mexican food, this recipe is perfect.
Table of Contents
What is Carne Picada?
Carne picada, which means “chopped meat” in Spanish, is a tasty Mexican dish. It turns cubed beef into a soft, spicy stew. This dish is a one-pot meal that cooks the chopped beef with veggies and spices. It makes a Mexican beef stew that’s both filling and delicious.
The secret to carne picada is slow cooking. This makes the beef tender and full of flavor from the tomatoes, bell peppers, and jalapeños. This braised beef dish is a favorite in Mexican cooking. It’s often served over rice or in tacos and burritos for a real Mexican meal.
Carne Picada Characteristics
- Made with cubed or chopped beef, typically chuck roast or bottom round
- Simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with bell peppers and jalapeños
- Seasoned with a blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano
- Produces a tender, stew-like texture with the beef essentially “melting” in your mouth
- Versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways, from tacos to burrito bowls
If you’re after a cozy meal or something tasty for Taco Tuesday, carne picada is perfect. It’s a Mexican classic that will make your taste buds happy.
“Carne picada is the ultimate Mexican comfort food – it’s like a warm hug for your taste buds.”
Ingredients for Carne Picada
Carne picada is a Mexican-inspired dish made with tender beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and Mexican spices. The beef, like chuck steak or roast, makes the stew rich and tender. Onions and garlic add a flavorful base, while tomatoes bring a tangy taste.
The dish gets its authentic flavor from Mexican spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Green bell peppers and jalapeños add a mix of mild and spicy flavors. Together, these ingredients make a delicious stew.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef chuck steak or roast | 2 pounds |
| Chopped tomatoes | 2 cups |
| Chopped onion | 1 cup |
| Sliced jalapeño | 1 piece |
| Minced garlic | 1 clove |
| Oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 3 pinches |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cooking oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Cubed potatoes | 1 1/2 cups |
With these ingredients, you can make a delicious Mexican dish in under 20 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Preparing the Carne Picada Recipe
Making the perfect carne picada at home is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to create this delicious Mexican-inspired dish:
- Start by searing the beef in batches to get a nice brown crust on the outside. This helps lock in the flavor. Once seared, deglaze the pan with a bit of broth or wine to incorporate all those tasty browned bits.
- Next, sauté the onions, garlic, and peppers until they’re softened. This builds the aromatic foundation for the stew.
- Add the seared beef back to the pot, along with the tomatoes, broth, and spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Let the carne picada stew for 60-90 minutes, allowing the beef to become deliciously tender and the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then serve the carne picada hot, over rice or in tacos, burritos, or bowls.
With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy this flavorful carne picada recipe any night of the week. The long, slow simmering makes the beef incredibly tender and infuses the dish with irresistible, south-of-the-border flavor.
“The carne picada recipe is ready in less than 20 minutes and it’s so delicious. I’ll be making this again and again!”
By following these easy carne picada recipe steps, you’ll be on your way to creating a how to make carne picada dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to satisfy your Mexican food cravings.
Serving Suggestions
Carne picada is a flavorful Mexican-inspired beef dish that’s very versatile. It can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you want a hearty main dish or something to add to other meals, this savory stew has endless options.
Serving the carne picada over a bed of rice or quinoa is a great choice. Add a side of refried beans or Mexican-style vegetables for a balanced meal. This way, the bold flavors of the beef can really stand out.
- Carne picada is also fantastic in tacos, burritos, or taco salads. Top it with your favorite toppings like lettuce, cheese, salsa, and sour cream.
- For a full meal, mix the carne picada into burrito bowls or rice bowls. Add other Mexican ingredients like avocado, black beans, corn, and pico de gallo.
- Or, enjoy the carne picada on its own as a hearty stew. Garnish it with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a fresh, flavorful touch.
No matter how you serve it, carne picada is sure to impress. Its tender texture and bold, spicy-sweet flavor are a hit. Try different ways to serve it and find your favorite way to enjoy this versatile Mexican dish.
carne picada recipe Variations
The classic carne picada recipe is a tasty Mexican dish. But, you can make it your own by trying different variations. You can change the spice level, add more nutrients, or use different beef cuts. These changes let you create a meal that’s uniquely yours.
One easy way to change the dish is by adjusting the jalapeños or chili powder. Add more for a spicier taste. Or, use less for a milder flavor. You can also add carrots, potatoes, or zucchini to make it healthier and more filling.
Want to try a different protein? Use leaner beef like flank steak or stew meat. Just remember to adjust the cooking time so the meat stays tender. You can also use beef broth instead of water for a richer sauce.
For a thicker sauce, mix a cornstarch slurry and add it towards the end. This will make the sauce stick to the meat and veggies, giving it a richer feel.
These variations let you tailor the carne picada to your liking. Whether you like it spicy or mild, you can make it fit your taste and dietary needs.
Tips for Perfect Carne Picada
Make your homemade carne picada taste like it’s from a restaurant with these easy tips. Focus on a few key steps to enhance the flavors and textures of this tasty Mexican-inspired beef stew.
Marinate the Meat
Begin by marinating the beef for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight). This lets the spices, garlic, and other aromatics soak into the meat. This makes the meat tender and flavorful.
Sear for Flavor
Take the time to sear the beef in batches before adding it to the stew. The caramelized bits on the meat’s surface add depth of flavor. Make sure to deglaze the pan with broth or water to get all the browned bits.
Simmer to Perfection
Let the carne picada simmer for 60-90 minutes. This makes the beef tender and the flavors blend well. Remember, the longer it simmers, the better the flavors will be.
Adjust Seasoning
Don’t hesitate to taste the carne picada as it cooks and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to match your taste. This ensures the flavors are just right.
Serve with Flair
Carne picada is very versatile. You can serve it over rice, in warm tortillas, or with your favorite Mexican sides and toppings. Try it with sour cream, cheese, salsa, or guacamole.
By following these simple tips, you’ll make the best carne picada you’ve ever had, right in your kitchen.
Storage and Reheating
Carne picada is a tasty dish perfect for busy nights. It’s easy to make ahead and still tastes great when reheated. This Mexican-inspired stew keeps its flavor and texture well.
Storing Carne Picada Leftovers
After enjoying your carne picada, store leftovers right. Let the stew cool, then put it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Cool it down, then put it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Reheating Carne Picada
Reheating leftover carne picada is simple. For fridge leftovers, warm it in a pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Stir often until it’s hot. Frozen carne picada should thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
If it’s too thick, add a bit of water or broth. Reheating in the microwave works too, with 20-second intervals until hot.
Follow these tips to enjoy your carne picada again. It’s a great way to make the most of your cooking time.
Nutritional Information
Carne picada is a tasty Mexican dish full of important nutrients. It has a balanced mix of nutrients that can help a healthy diet.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 291 kcal |
| Protein | 24g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 489mg |
| Potassium | 724mg |
| Vitamin A | 932 IU |
| Vitamin C | 38mg |
| Calcium | 66mg |
| Iron | 4mg |
The main ingredients of carne picada are beef, veggies, and spices. It’s rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. This makes it a filling and balanced meal choice. Enjoying it in moderation can make it a tasty and healthy part of your diet.
The nutritional value of carne picada can change based on the recipe and ingredients. The info given is for a typical carne picada dish.
“Carne picada is a hearty and nutritious Mexican dish that can be a balanced and satisfying part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation.”
Conclusion
Carne picada is a tasty and flexible Mexican dish. It turns simple ingredients into a rich, comforting stew. This recipe mixes tender beef, fresh veggies, and spices for a perfect meal.
It’s great for weeknights, taco nights, or any Mexican-themed dinner. The steps are easy to follow, and you can make it your own. This carne picada recipe is a must-try for anyone wanting to taste Mexican flavors.
The benefits of carne picada make it a fantastic choice for dinner. It’s full of protein and nutrients. Plus, you can adjust the spice level to your liking.
Try this carne picada recipe and enjoy tender, flavorful beef in many ways. It’s a great way to add variety to your meals.
Adding this summary of carne picada recipe to your cooking list is a smart move. It opens up new flavors from Mexico. Carne picada is easy to make and versatile, making it a family favorite. So, why not give it a try and taste the deliciousness for yourself?
FAQ
What is carne picada?
What are the key ingredients in carne picada?
How do I prepare carne picada?
How can I serve carne picada?
Can I customize the carne picada recipe?
What are some tips for making the best carne picada?
How can I store and reheat leftover carne picada?
What is the nutritional value of carne picada?
Swalt Wisdom
“Tasting flavors in a Tasty Carne Picada is an art that combines tradition and creativity; every dish tells a story through its ingredients.”
Swalt Tip
“For the perfect carne picada, make sure to marinate the meat well before cooking. The longer the marinating time, the richer and deeper the flavors will be in your Tasty Carne Picada. Consider adding spices like cumin and coriander to enhance the taste!