carne con papas recipe
The Best carne con papas recipe
What I love most about this dish is how balanced it is. You’ve got tender beef, potatoes, and a rich tomato-based sauce that’s packed with flavor but not heavy on the grease. The potatoes soak up all the juices, making every bite satisfying, and the beef is lean enough to keep it from feeling too indulgent. It’s comfort food that doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish afterward. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so leftovers are just as good the next day.
This recipe is perfect for those nights when you need something filling but don’t have the energy for anything complicated. It’s also great for potlucks or family gatherings because it scales up easily and always gets rave reviews. The best part? It’s made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, so you can throw it together without a last-minute grocery run. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense meal that delivers on taste and nutrition, carne con papas is the way to go.
Carne con Papas (Beef with Potatoes)
A hearty and flavorful Cuban dish featuring tender beef and potatoes simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners and pairs well with white rice or crusty bread.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck or stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Lime wedges
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, browning on all sides (about 5 minutes per batch). Remove beef and set aside. -
2
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. -
3
Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, white wine (if using), vinegar, sugar, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine. -
4
Return the browned beef to the pot and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. -
5
Add the potato chunks to the pot, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cover and simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the beef is fully cooked. -
6
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. -
7
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve hot with white rice or crusty bread. Offer lime wedges on the side for added brightness.
🔧Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or heavy pot with lid
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Carne con Papas (Beef with Potatoes) Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Carne con Papas (Beef with Potatoes)
1. What type of meat is best for carne con papas?
The best cuts of meat for carne con papas are those that become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked, such as beef chuck, flank steak, or skirt steak. These cuts have enough fat and connective tissue to break down during cooking, resulting in a rich, savory dish. Some recipes also use pork shoulder or stew meat for a slightly different texture.
2. Can I make carne con papas in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can easily adapt carne con papas for a slow cooker. Brown the meat first in a skillet for better flavor, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the potatoes, onions, peppers, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender. This method is great for hands-off cooking.
3. How do I prevent the potatoes from falling apart?
To keep the potatoes intact, choose waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, which hold their shape better than russets. Cut them into large, even chunks and add them to the pot later in the cooking process—about 30-40 minutes before the dish is done. Avoid over-stirring, and simmer gently instead of boiling vigorously.
4. What can I serve with carne con papas?
Carne con papas is a hearty dish that pairs well with simple sides like white rice, black beans, or warm tortillas. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh avocado salad, sliced plantains, or crusty bread. A squeeze of lime and chopped cilantro on top add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, carne con papas freezes well. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to restore moisture.