Carne con Papas

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, look no further than “Carne con Papas.” This Cuban classic is a savory beef and potato stew that brings together tender meat, hearty potatoes, and a medley of spices and herbs for a delightful meal. Rich in flavor yet easy to make, Carne con Papas has found its way into homes worldwide, loved for its warm and filling nature. Whether you’re new to Latin cuisine or a longtime fan, this recipe will soon become one of your go-to meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best parts about Carne con Papas is its simplicity. Although it tastes as if it has been simmering for hours, the prep and cooking process is straightforward and requires no complex ingredients. This recipe is versatile, too. You can add various vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your preferences. Additionally, with ingredients like lean beef and potatoes, it’s a dish that satisfies and nourishes. Carne con Papas also freezes well, making it a perfect option for meal prep. With this recipe, you’ll get all the comfort and flavor of a home-cooked meal without any stress.

Nutrition Information

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: ~300
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: ~700mg

This dish provides a good amount of protein from the beef, while the potatoes offer complex carbohydrates and fiber. Adjust the sodium or fat levels by opting for lean cuts of meat and reducing added salt or oils.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Serving Size and Yield

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Servings: 4-6 servings

Prep and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping the vegetables. Chop the onion and green bell pepper, mince the garlic, and cube the potatoes. Dice the tomatoes as well. Having everything ready will make cooking smooth and straightforward.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them until they become soft, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds and stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, cumin, and oregano. Stir thoroughly, scraping the bottom of the pot to incorporate any flavorful browned bits. These bits add a rich, deep flavor to the stew.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to tenderize.

Step 6: Add the Potatoes

After 30 minutes, add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir everything together and continue to cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, which usually takes another 15-20 minutes. You may need to add a bit more broth or water if the stew seems too thick.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

How to Enjoy Carne con Papas

Carne con Papas is best served warm, ideally with rice or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. For a full Cuban-inspired meal, pair it with fried plantains or a simple side salad. This stew can also be enjoyed the next day, as the flavors deepen overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

Tips to Make It Your Own

1. Add Extra Vegetables: While potatoes and beef are the core ingredients, you can add carrots, peas, or corn for extra nutrition.
2. Make It Spicier: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
3. Use Leaner Beef: For a healthier version, opt for a lean cut like sirloin or round steak. It still provides great flavor while lowering the fat content.
4. Try Different Broths: Beef broth adds a hearty flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth can be used if you prefer a lighter taste.

Why This Recipe Is Good for You

Carne con Papas is a balanced meal that combines protein, complex carbohydrates, and fiber. Beef provides iron, zinc, and essential B vitamins, while potatoes are an excellent source of potassium and vitamin C. With its nutrient-dense ingredients, this dish helps keep you full and energized. Additionally, using olive oil and fresh herbs makes it a healthier option compared to many other stews.

Nutrition Tips

1. Reduce Sodium: To make this dish more heart-friendly, use low-sodium beef broth and monitor the salt.
2. Increase Fiber: Serve it with a side of whole-grain bread or brown rice for added fiber.
3. Portion Control: While it’s tempting to have a second helping, this hearty stew is very filling. Consider portioning out servings ahead of time to avoid overeating.

Final Thoughts

Carne con Papas is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor, offering a taste of Cuban home cooking that’s incredibly satisfying. The tender beef and hearty potatoes make it an ideal meal for family gatherings, chilly evenings, or any time you crave something warm and nourishing. This dish is not only delicious but also offers a balanced mix of nutrients that make it a wholesome choice. Try it once, and it will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. So grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a true Latin classic that brings everyone to the table!