Carne Con Papas

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Serving Size: 6
Difficulty Level: Medium
Intensity: Moderate (requires occasional stirring and monitoring)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (700g) beef stew meat (chuck or round), cut into 1-inch cubes

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into large chunks

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

• 2 tomatoes, diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes, 14 oz)

• 2 carrots, sliced (optional)

• 2 cups beef broth (or water)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 bay leaf

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil

• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Searing the Beef

1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

2. Pat the beef dry with a paper towel (this helps with browning).

3. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper.

2. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmering the Stew

1. Return the seared beef to the pot and mix well with the aromatics.

2. Pour in the beef broth (or water) and add the bay leaf.

3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Adding Potatoes and Carrots

1. After 1 hour, add the potatoes and carrots (if using).

2. Cover and simmer for another 20-30 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the beef is fully cooked.

Step 5: Final Adjustments

1. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

2. If the stew is too thin, simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes to thicken.

3. Remove the bay leaf and discard.

Step 6: Serving

1. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

2. Serve hot with white rice, crusty bread, or tortillas.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine when sautéing the onions.

• Spicy version: Include 1 chopped jalapeño or ½ tsp red pepper flakes.

• Slow cooker method: After browning the beef, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Conclusion

This Carne con Papas is a hearty, flavorful stew perfect for family dinners or meal prep. The tender beef and soft potatoes soak up the rich, savory broth, making it a comforting dish for any occasion.