There’s a certain comfort that comes with the rich aroma of bacon gradually melting into tender beef, creating the ultimate culinary embrace. As I gathered the ingredients for my Beef and Bacon Stew, or Carne en su Jugo, memories of family gatherings filled my mind—laughter, stories, and the shared joy that comes from sitting around the table.
With the chill of the evening air seeping into our cozy kitchen, I knew this hearty stew would warm not just our bodies, but our spirits as well. It’s the kind of dish that transforms a simple dinner into a memorable feast, perfect for those who are tired of the same old takeout routine.
As I sautéed the tomatillos and tossed in the fragrant spices, I couldn’t help but marvel at how simple yet satisfying it felt to create something so comforting. This recipe is not just a delightful meal, but also an adventure in flavors where each bite tells a story. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making a stew that will surely impress your family and friends!
Why is Carne en su Jugo a must-try?
Comforting, this dish envelops you in warmth with its rich flavors and tender meat, delivering a big hug in every spoonful.
Versatile ingredients make it easy to tailor to your taste preferences, from spiciness to seasoning tailored to your family’s palate.
Time-saving, while it simmers for 1 to 1.5 hours, you can unwind, knowing a delicious meal is growing magic in the pot.
Crowd-pleasing is an understatement—friends and family will crave this heartwarming stew that combines familiar flavors into a homestyle classic.
Nostalgia fills the air as the aromas waft through your home, reminiscent of gatherings and cherished moments.
Dive in, and create your new favorite dish with Carne en su Jugo that’s sure to become a staple!
Essential Carne en su Jugo Ingredients
For the Bacon
• 12 ounces bacon – adds a smoky richness that enhances the overall flavor of the stew.
For the Beef
• 2 ½ pounds beef strip steak – tender cuts infuse the dish with a luscious texture and hearty sustenance.
• 3 teaspoons kosher salt – ensures the beef is well seasoned, enhancing its natural flavors.
For the Vegetables
• 6 tomatillos – provide a unique tanginess that complements the robust meat and spices.
• 3 serrano peppers – add a delightful kick; adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
• 1 cup packed cilantro – freshens the stew, balancing out the richness of the bacon and beef.
• 3 cloves garlic – infuses the dish with aromatic depth that makes it irresistible.
For Seasoning
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin – adds an earthy flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the other ingredients.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – enhances the overall taste without overpowering the other flavors.
For the Base
• 3 cups water – forms the stewing liquid that melds all the flavors together beautifully.
For the Beans
• 2 (15-ounce) cans pinto beans – provide protein and creaminess, turning this stew into a complete meal.
Get ready to create an unforgettable Carne en su Jugo experience that will bring your family together around the table!
How to Make Carne en su Jugo
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Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, allowing those delicious fats to render. This will be the flavorful base for your stew.
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Set Aside: Remove the crispy bacon and set it aside, leaving the melted drippings in the pot to continue infusing flavor into the dish.
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Brown the Beef: Season the beef strips with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and brown them in the hot bacon drippings. Look for a nice caramel color for maximum flavor.
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Add the Vegetables: Toss in the tomatillos, serano peppers, chopped cilantro, and garlic to the pot. Stir well to combine and let those veggies get all cozy with the beef.
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Mix in Seasonings: Stir in the cumin, black pepper, and the remaining kosher salt. This step will elevate the stew with aromatic flavor profiles; you’ll love the scent!
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Simmer: Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for the next hour, allowing all those amazing flavors to mingle.
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Add Beans and Bacon: Stir in the pinto beans and return the crispy bacon back to the pot. This final touch adds heartiness to your stew, making it truly satisfying.
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Cook Until Tender: Continue cooking until the beef is tender, about 1 to 1.5 hours, ensuring every bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Optional: Serve with warm tortillas for a delightful pairing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Carne en su Jugo preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal planning! You can brown the beef and cook the bacon up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to refrigerate them separately. Additionally, chop the tomatillos, serrano peppers, garlic, and cilantro ahead of time to save yourself some crucial minutes. On the day you’d like to serve this comforting stew, simply combine the prepped ingredients in the pot with water and beans, then simmer until the beef is tender (about 1 to 1.5 hours). This process not only cuts down on cooking time but also ensures that your stew is just as delicious, ready to warm your heart on a busy weeknight!
Carne en su Jugo Variations
Feel free to explore these creative twists and substitutions to make this stew uniquely yours, enhancing the flavors and textures that you love.
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Spicy Kick: Add more serrano peppers or even switch to jalapeños for a different heat profile. Spiciness can vary; start with a little and adjust to taste!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace the beef with mushrooms or jackfruit for a hearty vegetarian alternative. The mushrooms absorb the rich flavors beautifully!
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Bean Variety: Experiment with black beans or white beans instead of pinto beans. Each brings its own character, elevating the dish in unexpected ways.
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Herb Infusion: Swap out cilantro for parsley or focus on fresh oregano for a different aromatic touch, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze in some lime juice just before serving to brighten the dish—this adds a refreshing twist that pairs perfectly with the spices.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for an extra layer of smoky goodness. This complements the bacon beautifully!
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Velvety Texture: Stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream before serving for a richer, creamier stew. This small addition creates a luxurious mouthfeel.
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Sweetness Boost: Toss in some corn for a hint of sweetness and texture. Its natural sugars caramelize during cooking for a lovely contrast.
Enjoy the process of customizing your Carne en su Jugo, and watch as each variation transforms into a treasured family favorite!
Expert Tips for Carne en su Jugo
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Quality Beef: Always choose a good cut of beef strip steak; it’ll be the star of your Carne en su Jugo, ensuring tenderness and flavor.
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Bacon Drippings: Don’t rush removing the bacon; those flavorful drippings are essential for developing a rich base for the stew.
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Simmer Slowly: Low and slow is the key! Don’t rush the simmering process, as it allows flavors to meld and the beef to become incredibly tender.
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Adjust Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with fewer serrano peppers; you can always add more later but can’t remove the heat!
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Freshness Matters: Use fresh cilantro and tomatillos for the best flavor. Avoid canned tomatillos, as the freshness really shines in this dish.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair with warm tortillas or rice. They absorb the delicious broth and complete your comforting experience with Carne en su Jugo.
What to Serve with Carne en su Jugo?
Transform your comforting stew into a full meal experience that will delight your senses and satisfy your cravings.
- Warm Tortillas: Perfect for scooping up the stew; they add a soft, chewy texture that complements the stew’s richness.
- Spanish Rice: Fluffy and flavorful, this dish balances the hearty stew, making it a delightful pairing for family dinners.
- Creamy Avocado Salad: Fresh avocado with a light dressing provides a cool, creamy contrast, enhancing every mouthful of the rich stew.
- Grilled Corn: Sweet, charred corn adds a crunchy texture that enhances the comforting flavors of Carne en su Jugo beautifully.
Pair your stew with a crisp side salad, perhaps mixed greens drizzled with zesty lime vinaigrette, to add brightness to your plate.
For dessert, slice up a luscious chocolate cake to round off a delightful and indulgent meal that will warm your heart!
How to Store and Freeze Carne en su Jugo
Fridge: Store any leftover Carne en su Jugo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will ensure the flavors remain vibrant while keeping your stew fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stew in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. This is a perfect way to enjoy this comforting dish at a later date!
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen stew overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to restore its delicious consistency.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may alter the texture of the beef.
Beef and Bacon Stew Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon is best for this stew?
I recommend using thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture in your Carne en su Jugo. It renders more fat, creating a rich base that enhances the stew. Stay away from super lean bacon, as it won’t add the same depth of flavor.
How long will leftover Carne en su Jugo last in the fridge?
You can store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools to room temperature first before sealing it away; this helps retain the flavors and keep it fresh!
Can I freeze Carne en su Jugo?
Absolutely! Portion the cooled stew into freezer-safe containers and it will keep well for up to 3 months. To thaw, place the containers in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed for consistency.
What should I do if my beef is tough after cooking?
Don’t worry! If your beef is still tough after simmering for the recommended time, it likely needs more time to break down. Just keep it simmering, checking every 10-15 minutes, until it becomes tender and easily pulls apart. Patience is key!
Can I adjust the spiciness of the stew?
Very! If you prefer a milder flavor or have sensitive taste buds, simply use fewer serrano peppers or even substitute them with milder peppers like green bell peppers. Taste as you go and adjust the heat to match your family’s preference.
Is Carne en su Jugo pet-friendly?
While the ingredients in Carne en su Jugo are safe for humans, it’s not a complete dog food. The spices, especially garlic, aren’t recommended for pets. Always stick to home-cooked dishes formulated specifically for your furry friends!
Savoring Carne en su Jugo: A Comforting Stew Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, allowing those delicious fats to render.
- Remove the crispy bacon and set it aside, leaving the melted drippings in the pot.
- Season the beef strips with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and brown them in the hot bacon drippings.
- Toss in the tomatillos, serrano peppers, chopped cilantro, and garlic to the pot. Stir well.
- Stir in the cumin, black pepper, and the remaining kosher salt.
- Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for one hour.
- Stir in the pinto beans and return the crispy bacon back to the pot.
- Continue cooking until the beef is tender, about 1 to 1.5 hours.