Ever wanted to make that delicious meal from your Southwest trip or favorite Tex-Mex spot? Maybe it was the savory Carne Picada that caught your heart. This recipe brings home warmth and adventure, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s packed with spices like oregano and cumin, and green chilies and onions for that authentic Tex-Mex taste.
Picture coming home to a kitchen filled with the smell of slow-cooked beef. You can use affordable chuck roast, which is easy to find pre-chopped. Whether you cook it on the stovetop, in an Instant Pot, or slow cooker, it’s a hearty, flavorful meal. You can serve it with tortillas or use it in tacos and burritos.
Save time on dinner and enjoy a meal that connects you to Texas and the Southwest’s rich food traditions. This carne picada recipe is full of bold flavors, making it a satisfying and easy meal. For more tasty thin steak recipes, check this out.
Key Takeaways
- This easy carne picada recipe features robust Tex-Mex flavors.
- Traditionally made with chuck roast, it brings affordability and taste together.
- Carne Picada can be prepared on the stovetop, Instant Pot, or slow cooker.
- Common ingredients include chopped beef, onion, green pepper, garlic, canned tomatoes, oregano, and cumin powder.
- Ideal for busy cooks, it ensures a hearty meal without the hassle.
- Perfect as a filling for tacos, burritos, or paired with corn tortillas.
- Variations include using carne molida as a cheaper option.
What is Carne Picada?
Carne Picada, meaning “minced beef” in Spanish, is a favorite in Tex-Mex cuisine. It’s known for its flexibility and rich flavors from slow cooking. This makes it a beloved dish in many homes.
Definition and Origin
Carne picada is a tasty mix of minced or chopped beef. It’s often made from chuck roast or other affordable cuts. This dish comes from Tex-Mex cuisine, blending Texan and Mexican cooking styles.
The beef is cooked slowly until it’s tender. It’s mixed with spices and vegetables. This adds deep, hearty flavors to the dish.
Ingredients and Variations
Carne picada recipes vary widely, depending on the region. They use different ingredients to please different tastes. Here’s a list of common ingredients:
| Ingredient | Details |
|---|---|
| Beef Chuck Roast | 2 pounds, cubed |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Canned Whole Tomatoes | 21 ounces |
| Dried Oregano | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground Cumin | 2 teaspoons |
| Brown Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground Coriander | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
These ingredients form the base flavor of carne picada. But, there are many variations:
- Adding poblano or bell peppers can introduce a subtle heat to the dish.
- Spices like chipotle in adobo or Cayenne pepper can ramp up the spice level.
- Customizable toppings such as sour cream and fresh cilantro can enhance the overall flavor.
Exploring what is carne picada recipes show its versatility. This allows for endless creative twists, making every dish a new experience.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Carne Picada
Making Carne Picada is a great way to add vibrant, authentic flavors to your meals. This guide will help you with the ingredients and cooking steps. You’ll learn how to make this amazing dish.
Ingredients Needed
To start making Carne Picada, gather these ingredients:
- Chuck steak or roast (for a rich flavor and tenderness)
- Olive oil
- Onions
- Green bell peppers
- Jalapeños (optional for heat)
- Garlic
- Spices including cumin seeds, black pepper, dried oregano, chili powder, and salt
- Ancho Chile Powder
- Tomatoes
- Brown sugar
Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to cook a perfect Carne Picada, just like a Mexican restaurant:
- Marinate the beef for at least 2 hours to boost its flavor.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and brown it on all sides.
- Remove the browned beef and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the onions, green bell peppers, and jalapeños until they are soft and fragrant.
- Return the beef to the skillet, then add the garlic, tomatoes, and the prepared spice mix including cumin seeds, black pepper, dried oregano, chili powder, and salt.
- Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 75-90 minutes. This slow cooking process will ensure the beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, with all the ingredients melding together.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly distribute the flavors. Adjust the spice levels by adding or reducing jalapeños or chili powder according to your heat preference.
For more help, you can follow this arm roast recipe. It offers tips for handling beef cuts. Once cooked, serve Carne Picada hot with various side dishes or as a taco filling.
| Nutritional Information (Per Serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 379 |
| Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Protein | 24g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Sodium | 873mg |
Remember, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for 2-3 months. This makes Carne Picada a versatile dish you can enjoy many times.
Serving Suggestions for Carne Picada Recipe
The beauty of carne picada recipes lies in their versatility. They offer many options for creating delightful dishes. Here, you’ll discover distinct ways to serve this savory, Tex-Mex inspired delicacy, enhancing your mealtime experiences.
Main Dishes
One classic way to serve carne picada is on a traditional platter. Pair it with refried beans, Mexican rice, and tortillas for a flavorful meal. Whether you choose corn or flour tortillas, both options complement the beef’s rich taste perfectly.
Carne picada is also great for tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. Its finely chopped texture ensures it melds well with other ingredients. These main dishes not only taste fantastic but are also convenient to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Creative Uses
For those who like to experiment, carne picada can be a star ingredient in inventive dishes. Add it to taco salad bowls or as a protein booster in nachos. You can even use it as a hearty topping on a Mexican-style pizza, delivering an unexpected yet delicious twist.
Other creative ideas include adding carne picada to burrito bowls or rice bowls. You can also elevate your fajitas by using carne picada as the primary protein. This adds an extra layer of flavor to one of America’s favorite Tex-Mex dishes.
Given its adaptability, carne picada recipes remain a favorite among home cooks. By integrating these serving suggestions into your culinary repertoire, you can effortlessly turn ordinary meals into extraordinary dining experiences.
Conclusion
This easy carne picada recipe is a great way to dive into Tex-Mex flavors. It’s simple and can be made in many ways. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, this dish is a tasty choice that everyone can enjoy.
The recipe uses 2 pounds each of chuck roll and top sirloin, cut into ½-inch steaks. It’s fast to make, with grilling taking just 4 to 5 minutes on each side for medium doneness. It makes 6 to 8 servings, ideal for family dinners or parties. Remember to let the meat rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
To enhance your meal, serve the meat in 8-inch flour tortillas, warmed for about 1 minute on each side. Fill your tacos with refried beans, the grilled carne picada, salsa, and guacamole. This recipe is not only tasty but also flexible, letting you try new variations and sides. For more details, check out the full recipe guide and start cooking today.