Authentic Instant Pot Carne Guisada: A Flavorful Mexican Beef Stew Recipe
Embark on a culinary journey to Mexico with this incredibly easy and mouth-watering Instant Pot Carne Guisada recipe. This classic Mexican beef stew, renowned for its fork-tender beef and rich, savory gravy, is transformed into a convenient weeknight meal thanks to the efficiency of pressure cooking. No more waiting hours for deep flavors and tender meat; the Instant Pot delivers spectacular results in a fraction of the time. Whether you plan to serve it over fluffy rice, nestled inside warm tortillas for tacos, or as a hearty burrito filling, our Carne Guisada offers versatile deliciousness. It’s an approachable recipe for both Instant Pot veterans and newcomers, promising an authentic taste of Mexican comfort food directly to your dinner table.
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Watch: Instant Pot Carne Guisada Recipe Video Tutorial
What is Carne Guisada? A Deep Dive into this Iconic Mexican Beef Stew
The name “Carne Guisada” literally translates to “stewed meat” from Spanish, but in the culinary landscape of Mexico and the American Southwest, “carne” almost exclusively refers to beef. This beloved dish is a staple, celebrated for its succulent, tender chunks of beef enveloped in a deeply aromatic and savory gravy. It represents the heart of Mexican comfort food, a dish that traditionally relies on patience and slow simmering to achieve its rich complexity and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
The essence of Carne Guisada stems from its foundational ingredients: a vibrant blend of fresh garlic, onions, and bell peppers, often harmoniously cooked with diced tomatoes. These vegetables, once softened, release their natural sweetness and depth, creating the perfect backdrop for the stew’s signature gravy. For an added layer of zest and mild heat, green chilies are frequently included, contributing to the distinct Tex-Mex flair that many love. The flavor profile is further amplified by a carefully selected array of traditional Mexican spices, most notably earthy cumin, fragrant oregano (preferably Mexican oregano), and a touch of chili powder, all working in concert to create a robust and incredibly satisfying warmth.
While various regional interpretations of Carne Guisada exist – from the saucier versions found in Central Mexico to the thicker, heartier Tex-Mex renditions – the core appeal remains universal: a hearty, flavorful beef stew that speaks to tradition, family, and the rich tapestry of Latin American cuisine. It’s a versatile main course that truly shines when served alongside simple accompaniments, allowing its rich flavors to take center stage.
Why the Instant Pot is Your Best Friend for Perfect Carne Guisada
While traditional Carne Guisada typically demands hours of gentle simmering to break down the beef and develop its characteristic rich flavor, the Instant Pot offers a game-changing solution. This modern kitchen appliance allows you to achieve the same depth of flavor and incredible tenderness in a fraction of the time, making authentic Mexican beef stew accessible even on the busiest days. The high-pressure environment inside the Instant Pot is exceptionally effective at tenderizing tougher cuts of meat, turning them into succulent, fall-apart pieces that are perfect for stew.
The advantages of using an Instant Pot for this flavorful dish are significant:
- Unmatched Speed: What might require 3-5 hours in a slow cooker or 2-3 hours on the stovetop can be prepared from start to finish in approximately 90 minutes with the Instant Pot. This efficiency means less time waiting and more time enjoying.
- Superior Tenderness: Pressure cooking drastically reduces the time needed to tenderize beef stew meat, ensuring that every bite is luxuriously soft and moist, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the gravy.
- Intensified Flavors: The sealed, high-pressure environment forces the spices and aromatics deep into the meat and cooking liquid, resulting in a more profound and well-integrated flavor profile in less time.
- One-Pot Simplicity: Many Instant Pot models allow for multiple cooking functions in a single pot. While our recipe focuses on a “set-it-and-forget-it” pressure cook, you can easily sauté ingredients (like searing the beef for added depth, if desired) and then thicken the sauce all in the same pot, drastically cutting down on cleanup.
The Instant Pot makes it possible to enjoy the complex, slow-cooked taste of Carne Guisada with the convenience and speed needed for modern lifestyles, truly a culinary win-win.
Is Carne Guisada Gluten-Free? Easy Modifications for Dietary Needs
For individuals adhering to a gluten-free diet, enjoying a hearty and delicious Carne Guisada is absolutely achievable with a simple, effective ingredient swap. Our traditional recipe, like many stews, uses all-purpose flour to create the thick, comforting gravy that is characteristic of this Mexican beef stew. However, gluten-containing flour can be easily replaced with a gluten-free alternative without compromising on the desired texture or rich flavor.
To prepare a gluten-free version of this Instant Pot Carne Guisada, cornstarch is your best friend. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make the substitution:
- Cornstarch for Flour: Instead of 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, you will use approximately 2-3 tablespoons of cornstarch. The exact amount can be adjusted based on your desired gravy thickness.
- Creating a Slurry: It is critically important to mix the cornstarch with a cold liquid before adding it to the hot stew. Whisk the cornstarch thoroughly with a small amount of the reserved, room-temperature tomato juices (or plain cold water) until a smooth, lump-free slurry is formed. Adding cornstarch directly to hot liquid will result in clumps.
- Thickening Process: Once your cornstarch slurry is ready, stir it into the cooked stew in the Instant Pot. Then, activate the “Sauté” mode on low and bring the stew to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously. The sauce will begin to thicken as it heats. Avoid boiling vigorously for extended periods after adding cornstarch, as this can sometimes cause the sauce to thin out again.
Beyond the stew itself, remember to consider your accompaniments. Opt for traditional corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas, or serve your gluten-free Carne Guisada over a generous portion of white or brown rice. For a low-carb, gluten-free option, serving it in crisp lettuce wraps is also a fantastic choice. With these simple adjustments, everyone can savor the authentic and comforting flavors of this incredible Mexican beef stew.
How Long Does it Take? Instant Pot Carne Guisada Timeline
One of the most appealing features of preparing Carne Guisada in the Instant Pot is the significant reduction in overall cooking time, delivering a rich, slow-cooked flavor in a fraction of the traditional duration. From ingredient preparation to serving, you can have this flavorful Mexican beef stew ready in approximately an hour and a half.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical timeline:
- Prep Time (10-15 minutes): This initial phase includes chopping the onion and bell pepper, mincing the garlic, and cubing the beef stew meat (if not already pre-cut). A well-organized mise en place will make the rest of the process seamless.
- Instant Pot Build-Up Time (10-15 minutes): After sealing the lid and setting the pressure, your Instant Pot will take some time to come up to full pressure. This duration can vary based on the amount of liquid and the starting temperature of your ingredients.
- High-Pressure Cooking Time (25 minutes): This is the core cooking period where the beef becomes incredibly tender. The high-pressure environment effectively breaks down the connective tissues in the beef, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Natural Pressure Release (NPR) (15 minutes): After the 25 minutes of active cooking, allowing the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes is crucial. This helps the beef absorb moisture and become even more tender, preventing it from drying out. Following the natural release, a quick manual release will get rid of any remaining pressure.
- Thickening and Finishing (5-10 minutes): The final step involves incorporating the flour mixture to create the rich gravy and simmering it on the “Sauté” mode until it reaches your desired consistency. This quick stir and simmer bring all the flavors together beautifully.
Compared to traditional stovetop methods (2-3 hours) or slow cooker recipes (4-8 hours), the Instant Pot significantly cuts down the waiting time, making this authentic and delicious Carne Guisada a perfectly feasible meal even on busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor or tenderness.
Essential Ingredients for Your Authentic Carne Guisada
Crafting a truly authentic and mouthwatering Instant Pot Carne Guisada begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the deep, complex flavors that define this beloved Mexican beef stew. Here’s a comprehensive look at what you’ll need:
For the Hearty and Flavorful Stew:
- Water: The primary liquid for pressure cooking and forming the base of your gravy. You’ll need an initial ¾ cup for the Instant Pot, plus additional water to mix with the reserved tomato juices for thickening.
- Beef Stew Meat or Beef Roast (3-4 pounds, cut into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes): This is the star of your stew. Chuck roast is highly recommended due to its excellent marbling and collagen content, which breaks down beautifully under pressure, yielding incredibly tender and flavorful results. Ensure uniform cube size for even cooking.
- Salt and Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the beef and complement the spices. Season generously according to your taste preferences.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies or Plain Diced Tomatoes (20 ounces): The tomatoes provide a crucial acidic and tangy base, while the green chilies introduce a subtle, authentic Tex-Mex heat. If you prefer a milder stew, plain diced tomatoes are a perfect substitute. Remember to drain and reserve the flavorful juices – they’re essential for thickening the gravy!
- Chopped Onion (1 large): An aromatic powerhouse that adds a foundational sweetness and depth, mellowing beautifully during the cooking process.
- Diced Green Bell Pepper (1 large): Contributes a fresh, slightly crisp texture and a mild, earthy flavor that balances the richness of the beef and tomatoes. Feel free to use other colored bell peppers for a slightly different visual and taste.
- Minced Garlic (3 cloves): Indispensable for imparting that authentic, pungent, and savory Mexican flavor. Freshly minced garlic will always provide the most robust aroma and taste.
- All-Purpose Flour (3 tablespoons): This is the key to achieving that perfectly thick, velvety gravy. It creates a satisfying body for the stew. (Refer to the “Gluten-Free” section for a cornstarch alternative if needed.)
- Ground Cumin (½ teaspoon): A cornerstone spice in Mexican cuisine, offering a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky flavor that is characteristic of Carne Guisada.
- Dried Oregano (½ teaspoon): Adds a fragrant, herbaceous, and subtly peppery note. Mexican oregano, if available, provides a more authentic flavor profile.
- Chili Powder (1 teaspoon): Provides a gentle warmth and a deep, nuanced chili flavor without being overtly spicy. You can adjust this amount or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you desire more heat.
Recommended Garnishes to Elevate Your Dish:
Garnishes are not just for presentation; they add layers of freshness, texture, and contrasting flavors that truly complete your Carne Guisada experience:
- Fresh Cilantro: A bright, verdant herb that offers a distinctive, refreshing aroma and taste, cutting through the richness of the stew.
- Grated Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or a Mexican blend adds a creamy, melty, and savory touch.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa, typically made with diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro, provides a burst of zesty, fresh flavor and a pleasant textural contrast.
- Sour Cream (or Mexican Crema): A dollop of cool, tangy sour cream adds a luscious creaminess that beautifully complements the robust stew, balancing any heat.
Gathering these ingredients will set you up for success in creating an unforgettable Instant Pot Carne Guisada.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Instant Pot Carne Guisada to Perfection
Making Carne Guisada in your Instant Pot simplifies the process of achieving a deeply flavorful and wonderfully tender Mexican beef stew. This method streamlines cooking without compromising the rich, authentic taste. Follow these detailed instructions to create a memorable meal. (If you prefer the traditional slow cooker method, you can find the instructions here.)
Initial Preparation Steps:
- Prepare the Aromatics: Start by getting your vegetables ready. Finely chop the onion and dice the green bell pepper into small, even pieces. Mince the garlic cloves thoroughly. Having these ingredients prepped in advance ensures a smooth cooking flow.
- Ready the Beef: If your beef stew meat comes in larger cuts, trim any excess fat and cut it into uniform 1 to 1.5-inch cubes. Uniform size promotes even cooking and consistent tenderness.
Instant Pot Cooking Process:
- Drain Tomatoes & Reserve Juices: Open your can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (or plain diced tomatoes). Carefully drain the liquid from the tomatoes into a 2-cup measuring cup. Set these reserved juices aside; they are crucial for preparing the gravy later.
- Assemble in the Instant Pot: Pour ¾ cup of water into the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Add the cubed beef stew meat, distributing it evenly. Season the beef generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t worry if you forget to season now; this is a forgiving recipe, and you can always adjust flavors at the end.
- Layer Remaining Ingredients: Spoon the drained diced tomatoes and green chilies directly over the beef in the pot. Then, add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and diced green bell pepper on top of the tomatoes. Resist the urge to stir everything together at this point; layering helps in pressure cooking.
- Begin Pressure Cooking: Secure the lid onto your Instant Pot and ensure the sealing valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” (or “Pressure Cook”) setting and set the cooking time to 25 minutes on High pressure.
- Allow Natural Pressure Release (NPR): Once the 25-minute cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15 minutes. This important step contributes significantly to the tenderness of the beef. After 15 minutes, carefully perform a quick release of any remaining pressure by moving the sealing valve to “Venting.” Once the float valve drops, it’s safe to open the lid.
- Season and Stir: Carefully open the Instant Pot lid. Stir the cooked beef and vegetables. Now, add the chili powder, oregano, and cumin. Stir thoroughly to ensure these aromatic spices are well-distributed throughout the stew. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference; you might want more salt, pepper, or a little extra spice.
Creating the Signature Thick Gravy:
- Prepare the Thickening Liquid: Retrieve your reserved tomato juices. Add enough extra water to this juice to reach a total volume of 1½ cups of liquid. Gently warm this mixture in the microwave or a small saucepan on the stovetop until it’s warm but not boiling.
- Make the Flour Slurry: Gradually whisk the 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the warm liquid until you have a completely smooth, lump-free slurry. This mixture is what will transform your stew into a rich, thick gravy.
- Incorporate and Thicken: Pour the prepared flour mixture into the cooked meat in the Instant Pot. Stir well to ensure the thickening agent is evenly blended throughout the stew.
- Simmer to Desired Consistency: Select the “Sauté” mode on your Instant Pot. Bring the stew to a gentle boil, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes, or until the gravy reaches your preferred thickness. This continuous stirring prevents sticking and ensures smooth thickening.
- Final Rest and Serve: Once the gravy is perfectly thickened, turn off the Instant Pot to stop the hard boil. Let the stew rest for about 10 minutes; this allows the flavors to further meld and the gravy to set. If you’re not serving immediately, you can switch the Instant Pot to “Slow Cooker” or “Keep Warm” mode to maintain its temperature.
Garnish and Savor:
Your Instant Pot Carne Guisada is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm, garnished generously with fresh cilantro, grated cheese, a spoonful of bright pico de gallo, and a dollop of cool sour cream. Offer a side of warm tortillas for dipping and scooping up every last bit of the exquisite stew. Prepare for a truly satisfying and flavorful meal!
Delicious Ways to Serve Your Instant Pot Carne Guisada
The beauty of Carne Guisada lies in its versatility. This rich and flavorful Mexican beef stew can be enjoyed in numerous ways, making it a fantastic dish for any meal. Here are some of our favorite serving suggestions:
- Classic with Rice: The most traditional and popular way to serve Carne Guisada is over a generous bed of fluffy white rice. The rice soaks up the savory gravy, creating a harmonious and comforting bite. Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice are also excellent choices for an elevated experience.
- Tacos and Burritos: Transform your Carne Guisada into a mouthwatering filling for tacos or burritos. Simply spoon the tender beef and gravy into warm corn or flour tortillas. Add your preferred taco toppings like shredded lettuce, extra cheese, diced onions, a squeeze of fresh lime, or a dollop of guacamole.
- Over Mashed Potatoes: For a uniquely comforting fusion, serve Carne Guisada over creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth potatoes provide a wonderful contrast to the rich, spiced gravy and tender beef.
- As a Hearty Bowl: Enjoy it simply in a bowl, perhaps with a side of warm crusty bread or cornbread for dipping. It’s a complete meal on its own.
- Alongside Mexican Sides: Pair your stew with complementary Mexican side dishes such as smoky charro beans, creamy refried beans, or a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Enchilada or Empanada Filling: Leftover Carne Guisada makes an exceptional filling for homemade enchiladas or savory empanadas. Its rich flavor and tender consistency are perfect for repurposing into other delicious creations.
No matter how you choose to serve it, don’t forget the fresh garnishes! Fresh cilantro, grated cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema, and a spoonful of bright pico de gallo add essential layers of freshness, texture, and balanced flavors that truly elevate the dining experience.
Storage & Leftovers: Keeping Your Carne Guisada Fresh
One of the many delights of cooking a hearty stew like Carne Guisada is that it often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld and deepen. Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious Instant Pot Mexican beef stew for days to come, and it’s also excellent for meal prepping!
- Refrigeration: Once your Carne Guisada has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it into an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s properly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent odor transfer.
- Freezing for Longer Storage: Carne Guisada freezes wonderfully! To freeze, allow the stew to cool entirely. Divide it into individual or family-sized portions and place them into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating Instructions:
- Stovetop: For best results, gently reheat the stew in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the gravy has thickened too much, add a splash of water or beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Microwave: For individual portions, microwave on high, stirring at 1-minute intervals, until thoroughly heated through.
- Instant Pot: Larger batches can be reheated using the “Sauté” mode on a low setting or the “Keep Warm” function, stirring frequently to ensure even heating and prevent scorching.
Beyond simple reheating, your leftover Carne Guisada is a versatile ingredient for new culinary creations! As noted in the original recipe, it’s perfect for making flavorful beef enchiladas, a comforting Tex-Mex Beef Casserole, or quick and satisfying burritos. The possibilities are truly endless, offering convenient and delicious meals long after the initial cooking.
Expert Tips for the Best Instant Pot Carne Guisada
While our Instant Pot Carne Guisada recipe is designed to be straightforward and yield fantastic results every time, a few expert tips can elevate your Mexican beef stew from great to absolutely exceptional. Keep these pointers in mind for a truly unforgettable dish:
- Choose Quality Beef: The foundation of any great stew is quality meat. Opt for beef stew meat with good marbling, or a chuck roast that you can cut yourself. While the Instant Pot is excellent at tenderizing, superior starting material will always result in a more flavorful and succulent end product. Ensure your beef pieces are cut into uniform 1 to 1.5-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Don’t Rush the Natural Pressure Release (NPR): The 15-minute natural pressure release is a critical step, not just a suggestion. It allows the internal temperature of the beef to gradually decrease, letting the meat relax and reabsorb its juices. This process is essential for achieving that incredibly tender, fall-apart texture. Skipping or shortening the NPR can result in tougher, drier meat.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: The spice measurements in the recipe are a fantastic starting point, but always taste your stew after the pressure cooking and before the final thickening stage. Palates vary, and you might prefer more salt, pepper, cumin, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Remember, it’s easier to add more seasoning than to remove it!
- Achieve Perfect Gravy Consistency: The amount of flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free) can be slightly adjusted to match your preferred gravy thickness. If you find the gravy too thin after simmering, you can create a small slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and stir it into the simmering stew until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s too thick, simply add a bit more water or beef broth.
- Fresh Garnishes are Key: Never underestimate the power of fresh garnishes. Fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema, and vibrant pico de gallo aren’t just for aesthetics. They provide essential freshness, creaminess, and acidity that cut through the richness of the stew, brightening the entire dish and enhancing the overall eating experience.
- Consider Searing the Beef (Optional but Recommended): Although this recipe emphasizes simplicity by skipping the initial sear, briefly browning the beef in batches on the Instant Pot’s “Sauté” mode before adding other ingredients can significantly enhance the flavor profile. Searing creates a rich “fond” (browned bits) at the bottom of the pot, which, when deglazed with the initial water, adds incredible depth and complexity to the gravy. If you choose this step, ensure you scrape up all the browned bits before pressure cooking to avoid a “Burn” warning.
By incorporating these thoughtful tips, you’re sure to create an Instant Pot Carne Guisada that not only satisfies but truly impresses, cementing its place as a favorite in your kitchen.
More Delicious Soups and Stews to Explore:
- Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
- Cheeseburger Soup with Velveeta
- Tortellini Zucchini Soup
- Tomato Spinach Tortellini Soup (15 Minute Meal)
Full Recipe Details: Instant Pot Carne Guisada
Instant Pot Carne Guisada (Mexican Beef Stew)
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Ingredients
- ¾ cup water, plus extra
- 3-4 pounds beef stew meat
- salt and pepper as preferred
- 20 ounces canned diced tomatoes with green chilies or plain diced tomatoes, reserve juices
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Garnishes:
- fresh cilantro
- grated cheese
- pico de gallo
- sour cream
Instructions
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Chop 1 onion and 1 green bell pepper. Mince 3 cloves garlic.
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Put ¾ cup water in Instant Pot and add 3-4 pounds beef stew meat. Add salt and pepper as preferred.
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Drain juice from 20 ounces canned diced tomatoes with green chilies or plain diced tomatoes into a 2 cup measuring cup and place tomatoes with green chilies over meat. Add garlic, onion, and green pepper.
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Cook on manual pressure (high if you have the option) for 25 minutes. NPR for 15 minutes, then release pressure and open lid. Add ½ teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon oregano, and 1 teaspoon chili powder and stir.
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Add enough water to the reserved juice from tomatoes with green chilies to make 1½ cups liquid. Heat liquid in microwave or on stovetop.
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Add 3 tablespoons flour to liquid and mix well. Add flour mixture to cooked meat and stir to blend well. Cook on sauté mode for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly, to thicken the sauce.
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Turn off Instant Pot to stop the hard boil, and let sit for 10 minutes. Turn back on to slow cooker mode to keep warm while serving.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro, grated cheese, pico de gallo, and sour cream, and serve with tortillas for dipping.
Notes
- If you prefer a milder flavor profile, substitute the canned diced tomatoes with green chilies for plain diced tomatoes. For an even milder stew, you can also consider reducing the amount of chili powder.
- Leftovers from Carne Guisada are incredibly versatile and can be repurposed into delicious new meals. Consider using them to make flavorful beef enchiladas, a hearty Tex-Mex Beef Casserole, or quick and satisfying burritos.
- These detailed instructions are specifically tailored for preparing Carne Guisada using an Instant Pot. Should you prefer the convenience of a slow cooker, you can find the complete slow cooker method instructions here.
- Please be aware that the provided nutrition data for this recipe does not include any optional garnishes you might add, as their nutritional values can vary significantly.
- To adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet, replace the 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with 2-3 tablespoons of cornstarch. It’s crucial to mix the cornstarch thoroughly with room-temperature reserved juices (or cold water) to form a smooth slurry before adding it to the stew. Avoid heating the liquid when initially mixing the cornstarch to prevent lumps. After adding the cornstarch slurry, ensure the stew comes to a gentle simmer on “Sauté” mode until it reaches your desired thickness. For a completely gluten-free meal, serve with corn tortillas or rice instead of flour tortillas.