Guisado is a heartwarming beef stew that wraps you in a cozy embrace with every spoonful! Picture tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection, mingling with vibrant bell peppers, sweet onions, and aromatic garlic, all bathed in a rich, savory broth. Instead of wine, we use a splash of zesty lime juice and a hint of apple cider vinegar to elevate the flavors, creating a delightful balance. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort and warmth, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Dive into this ultimate delicious sensation and let the flavors dance on your palate!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a hearty, comforting dish that warms your soul.
- Simple ingredients come together for a rich, savory flavor.
- Perfect for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!
- Customizable with your favorite veggies and spices.
- Brings family and friends together around the table.

guisado
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Let it shimmer and get cozy.
- Add beef and brown on all sides. Sizzle, sizzle, let that flavor develop!
- Remove beef and sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened. Enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen!
- Stir in tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and bay leaves. Mix it all together for a flavor explosion!
- Return beef to the pot, add potatoes, carrots, and broth. It’s a hearty party in there!
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5–2 hours until beef is tender. Patience is key!
- Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust to your liking!
- Garnish with cilantro and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Nutrient
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350 |
Fat | 15g |
Protein | 25g |
Carbs | 30g |
Fiber | 5g |
Sodium | 600mg |
Recipe Snapshot
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Category | Main Course |
Cuisine | Mexican |
Prep Time | 15 minutes |
Cook Time | 120 minutes |
Total Time | 135 minutes |
Dietary | Beef stew |
Serves | 6 |
Best Served | Hot with fresh cilantro garnish! |
Ingredients
Get ready to create a mouthwatering guisado with these flavorful ingredients!

- 1 lb beef chuck – cubed
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil – for sautéing
- 1 onion – chopped
- 3 cloves garlic – minced
- 1 bell pepper – diced
- 2 tomatoes – chopped
- 2 potatoes – peeled and cubed
- 2 carrots – sliced
- 1 tsp ground cumin – for seasoning
- 1 tsp chili powder – for spice
- 2 bay leaves – for flavor
- 4 cups vegetable broth – as liquid
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Fresh cilantro – for garnish
How to Make guisado
Get ready for a delightful cooking adventure! This guisado recipe will warm your heart and fill your belly.

1. Step
Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Let it shimmer and get cozy.
2. Step
Add beef and brown on all sides. Sizzle, sizzle, let that flavor develop!
3. Step
Remove beef and sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened. Enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen!
4. Step
Stir in tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and bay leaves. Mix it all together for a flavor explosion!
5. Step
Return beef to the pot, add potatoes, carrots, and broth. It’s a hearty party in there!
6. Step
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5–2 hours until beef is tender. Patience is key!
7. Step
Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust to your liking!
8. Step
Garnish with cilantro and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Pro Tips for Making guisado
- Choose well-marbled beef for a tender, flavorful stew.
- Brown the meat in batches to develop rich flavors.
- Add vegetables like carrots and potatoes for heartiness.
- Use low-sodium beef broth for better control over saltiness.
- Let it simmer longer for deeper flavors and tenderness.
How to Serve
- Serve with warm tortillas for a delightful wrap.
- Pair with fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the savory sauce.
- Add a side of fresh avocado slices for creaminess.
- Top with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick.
- Enjoy with a side of black beans for a hearty meal.
- Serve in a bowl with crusty bread for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can prepare and store your guisado for later enjoyment:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the guisado to cool completely.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Cool the guisado completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Leave some space for expansion when sealing.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat.
- Add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
- Stir occasionally until heated through.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What type of beef is best for guisado?
For guisado, chuck roast or brisket works wonderfully due to their rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked. These cuts become melt-in-your-mouth delicious as they simmer in the stew, absorbing all the spices and broth. If you prefer a leaner option, you can also use sirloin, but it may not be as tender as the other cuts. Just remember to cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking!
2. Can I make guisado in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! A slow cooker is perfect for making guisado. Simply brown the beef and sauté the vegetables in a pan first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with your broth and spices. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and you’ll come home to a warm, hearty meal!
3. What can I use instead of wine in guisado?
If you want to avoid wine, you can use beef broth or a mixture of vinegar and water as a substitute. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a splash of grape juice or apple cider vinegar mixed with water. This will help to balance the flavors without the alcohol, keeping your guisado delicious and family-friendly!
4. How can I thicken my guisado?
To thicken your guisado, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans or potatoes in the stew to naturally thicken it. This will give your guisado a heartier texture while enhancing the flavors!
5. Can I add vegetables to my guisado?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your guisado. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces and add them to the pot during the last hour of cooking to ensure they remain tender but not mushy. Feel free to get creative with seasonal veggies!
6. How long does guisado last in the fridge?
Guisado can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw and reheat!
7. What can I serve with guisado?
Guisado pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or even crusty bread. You can also serve it with a side of beans or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the stew. For a traditional touch, consider topping it with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime for added flavor!
8. Can I make guisado ahead of time?
Yes, guisado is a fantastic make-ahead meal! In fact, the flavors often improve after a day in the fridge. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests without the last-minute rush!
Final Thoughts
As you savor each bite of this guisado, let the warmth and flavors transport you to cherished moments around the dinner table. It’s a simple yet rewarding dish that brings comfort and joy. So gather your loved ones, share stories, and enjoy this delightful beef stew sensation together. Happy cooking!