If you're looking for a hearty and flavorful meal, try South Texas Carne Guisada. This dish is perfect for any occasion and packs a powerful punch of flavor. With only 322 calories per serving, it's a great option for those following a calorie-controlled diet.

South Texas Carne Guisada is a traditional Mexican beef stew made with tender chunks of beef in a rich tomato-based sauce. It's typically served with warm tortillas or rice, making it a filling and satisfying meal.

In this article, we'll explore the ingredients and health benefits of South Texas Carne Guisada, as well as provide tips on how to make and serve this delicious dish.

Calories in South Texas Carne Guisada

One portion of South Texas Carne Guisada contains approximately 322 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie meal option compared to other meat-based dishes. However, the calorie count can vary depending on the ingredients used and how the dish is prepared. For example, using leaner cuts of beef and minimal oil can help reduce the overall calorie count.

South Texas Carne Guisada Ingredients

The ingredients for South Texas Carne Guisada can vary depending on the recipe and personal preference. However, some common ingredients include: - Beef (usually chuck or round) - Tomatoes - Onions - Garlic - Chili powder - Cumin - Salt and pepper - Beef broth Additional ingredients such as bell peppers, jalapenos, and cilantro can also be added for extra flavor.

Health Benefits of South Texas Carne Guisada

South Texas Carne Guisada is a protein-packed meal that offers several health benefits. The beef provides important nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. The tomatoes in the sauce are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Additionally, the use of herbs and spices like chili powder and cumin can add a boost of flavor and potentially offer anti-inflammatory benefits.

How to Make South Texas Carne Guisada

To make South Texas Carne Guisada, you'll need: - 2 pounds beef stew meat - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - 1 onion, chopped - 3 cloves of garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 2 cups beef broth - 1 can of diced tomatoes - 1 cup chopped bell pepper (optional) - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional) 1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides. 2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened. 3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. 4. Add the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender. 5. Stir in the chopped bell pepper and cilantro (if using) and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Tips for Serving South Texas Carne Guisada

Here are some tips to help you serve South Texas Carne Guisada: - Serve with warm tortillas or rice to soak up the sauce. - Top with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or shredded cheese for extra flavor. - Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.

South Texas Carne Guisada vs. Other Meat Dishes

Compared to other meat dishes, South Texas Carne Guisada tends to be lower in calories and fat. For example, a 6-ounce steak contains around 400 calories and 20 grams of fat, while a 1-cup serving of beef chili can contain up to 500 calories and 30 grams of fat.

How to Store Leftover South Texas Carne Guisada

If you have leftover South Texas Carne Guisada, it's important to store it properly to ensure food safety. Allow the stew to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.

South Texas Carne Guisada Serving Suggestions

Here are some serving suggestions for South Texas Carne Guisada: - Serve with warm tortillas or rice to soak up the sauce. - Top with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or shredded cheese for extra flavor. - Add a side of Mexican-style street corn or black beans for a complete meal.

History of South Texas Carne Guisada

South Texas Carne Guisada has its roots in Mexican cuisine and is a popular dish in the Southwest United States. It's believed that the dish originated in the border region between Mexico and Texas, where beef was readily available and used in traditional stews and soups.

South Texas Carne Guisada Variations

There are many variations of South Texas Carne Guisada, each with their own unique twist on the classic recipe. For example, some recipes call for the addition of beer or tequila to the sauce, while others use different cuts of beef or spices. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find your perfect twist on this classic dish!