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Carne guisada con papas

Beef Chuck with Potatoes and Comino

This savory Beef Chuck with Potatoes and Comino is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender beef chuck, flavorful spices, and soft potatoes in a savory broth. The rich flavors of the beef and the spices create a perfect harmony that is both satisfying and delicious. This recipe is easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb beef chuck, diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1/2 onion, sliced thinly
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Ground cumin (comino) to taste
  • Handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 chicken bouillon cube (or chicken bouillon granules)

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is all about building layers of flavor while keeping things simple. Follow these easy steps to create a rich and flavorful dish.

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

  1. Heat the Oil in a Pan
    Add 2 tablespoons of oil to a large pan or skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced beef chuck to the pan.
  2. Brown the Beef
    Sauté the beef until it’s browned on all sides. This will give the meat a rich, caramelized flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Stir occasionally to ensure the beef browns evenly.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics and Seasonings

  1. Season the Beef
    Once the beef is browned, add salt, pepper, and ground cumin (comino) to taste. Stir to combine the seasonings with the beef. Cumin adds an earthy, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef.
  2. Add Garlic, Onion, Tomato, and Cilantro
    Add the minced garlic, sliced onion, diced tomato, and fresh cilantro to the pan. Sauté everything together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions begin to soften and the tomatoes release their juices. This will help develop a fragrant base for the dish.

Step 3: Simmer and Thicken the Broth

  1. Add Water and Flour
    Pour in 1 cup of water to the pan, then sprinkle in the flour. Stir well to make sure the flour is fully incorporated into the liquid. This will help thicken the sauce, making the dish rich and hearty. Make sure the flour doesn’t clump by stirring constantly.
  2. Add Chicken Bouillon
    Add the chicken bouillon cube (or a teaspoon of chicken bouillon granules) into the mixture. Stir until the bouillon is dissolved completely, which will add a savory depth to the dish.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

  1. Add the Potatoes
    Add the cubed potatoes to the pan, stirring to combine them with the beef and the seasonings. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. Be sure to check occasionally to ensure that the potatoes are cooking evenly.

Step 5: Final Touches

  1. Taste and Adjust Seasoning
    Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or cumin to suit your preference.
  2. Serve
    Once the potatoes are cooked through and the flavors are well combined, remove the pan from heat. Serve the dish hot, garnished with a little extra fresh cilantro if desired.

Tips for the Best Beef Chuck with Potatoes

  1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef
    For this dish, beef chuck is the ideal cut because it becomes tender when simmered and has a rich, beefy flavor. Avoid leaner cuts, as they may become tough when cooked for a long period of time.
  2. Don’t Skip the Browning Step
    Searing the beef before adding the seasonings builds a lot of flavor. It creates a caramelized crust that enhances the taste and adds depth to the overall dish. Make sure to let the beef brown properly before proceeding.
  3. Use Fresh Cilantro
    Fresh cilantro adds brightness and a burst of freshness to this hearty dish. Don’t substitute dried cilantro, as it lacks the vibrant flavor that fresh cilantro brings. Add it towards the end of cooking to keep its flavor intact.
  4. Adjust the Spice Level
    The cumin adds a nice earthy flavor, but you can adjust the amount according to your taste. If you prefer a bit more heat, you can also add a finely chopped jalapeño or another hot pepper when you add the garlic and onions.
  5. Let It Simmer
    Slow simmering is the key to tender beef and soft potatoes. Be patient and let the dish cook undisturbed to allow the flavors to develop and meld together.
See also  Delish! My husband is completely dependent on the sauce, so he constantly asks for his.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This dish actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld. You can make it ahead and refrigerate it, then reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

What can I serve with this dish?
This Beef Chuck with Potatoes and Comino is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with warm tortillas or a side of rice. You can also serve it with a simple salad or some sautéed greens for a well-rounded meal.

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, you can use any type of potato you prefer. Russet potatoes work well, but if you prefer a firmer potato, Yukon Gold or red potatoes would be great alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, as different potatoes can cook at different rates.

How can I make this dish spicier?
To make the dish spicier, add more cumin, or incorporate finely chopped fresh chili peppers like jalapeños or serranos when you sauté the garlic and onions. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes in with the seasonings for extra heat.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this Beef Chuck with Potatoes. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.


Conclusion

This Beef Chuck with Potatoes and Comino is a wonderfully flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare but full of rich, comforting flavors. The tender beef and soft potatoes cooked in a savory broth with earthy cumin and fresh cilantro make for a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish will quickly become a go-to recipe in your rotation.