Carne Con Papas is a hearty dish made with tender beef and soft potatoes simmered in a tasty sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for a family meal!
Whenever I make this dish, the rich flavors make my kitchen smell amazing. Plus, who can resist a bowl of comforting meat and potatoes? They are always a hit at dinner! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Choose a tough cut for best flavor. Chuck or brisket works well. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use sirloin, but it may not be as tender.
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold or red potatoes because they hold their shape well. You can swap them for sweet potatoes for a twist, adding natural sweetness to the dish.
Onion: Yellow onions give a nice sweetness when cooked down. If you need a replacement, shallots work nicely. Red onions can give a sharper flavor if you prefer.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for the flavor. In a pinch, use garlic powder—1/4 teaspoon equals one clove.
Broth: Beef broth enhances the dish’s richness. If you prefer, vegetable broth or even water can work, but it will be less flavorful.
Cilantro: This is a favorite for its fresh taste, but if you’re not a fan, parsley is a great alternative.
How Can You Achieve Perfectly Tender Beef in Carne Con Papas?
Tender beef is the key to a great Carne Con Papas. Here’s how to ensure your beef turns out just right:
- Start with a good sear: Browning the beef enhances flavor. Make sure to not crowd the pan as this can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Low and slow cooking: After searing, cook the beef on low heat. This allows the connective tissues to break down and become tender.
- Don’t rush the simmering: Let it cook covered for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour. The low simmer is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Following these tips will help you end up with delicious, tender beef in your dish. Happy cooking! 🍽️
Carne Con Papas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1 lb (450 g) beef stew meat, cut into cubes
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups beef broth or water
For Seasoning:
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or sweet paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small bunch fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 4 cherry tomatoes (for garnish)
- Optional: chili flakes or fresh chili to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus around 1 hour and 15 minutes for cooking. You’ll start with some basic sautéing and simmering, and the results will be a delicious, hearty meal perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the beef cubes and sear them until browned on all sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes. After browning, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. This will enhance the flavor of your stew!
2. Cooking the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and soft. This step adds a lovely base flavor to your stew.
3. Adding the Spices:
Next, stir in the minced garlic along with the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until you can smell the wonderful spices—this will really bring your dish to life!
4. Simmering the Stew:
Now, return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef broth or water and sprinkle in the salt. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 45 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
5. Adding the Potatoes:
After the beef has simmered, it’s time to add the potato chunks. Stir them in and continue to simmer the stew, covered, for an additional 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are soft and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the chopped cilantro or parsley. Taste your stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt or chili if you like a little heat!
7. Serving:
Carefully transfer the stew to a serving bowl. For a pop of color and flavor, garnish with the roasted cherry tomatoes and some fresh herb sprigs.
8. Enjoy!
Serve hot, best enjoyed with warm tortillas or some crusty bread on the side to soak up that delicious sauce. This rustic and comforting Carne Con Papas is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While stew meat is ideal for this recipe, you can also use chuck, brisket, or even shank. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for tougher cuts, if needed.
How Do I Thicken the Sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the stew a few minutes before it’s done cooking, and let it simmer until it thickens.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply sear the beef, then add all the ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours until the beef and potatoes are tender.
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months!