Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew

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Nothing beats the heartwarming comfort of a homemade beef stew, especially when it’s been slow-cooked with rich Puerto Rican flavors. This Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew, or “Carne Guisada” as it’s known on the island, is a dish that wraps you up like a warm hug. Every bite is layered with depth from aromatic sofrito, vibrant spices, and melt-in-your-mouth beef that falls apart effortlessly on your fork.

This dish is pure nostalgia for many, served during Sunday dinners or holidays, bringing families together over steaming plates of rice. The gravy alone is reason enough to keep making it again and again. Whether you’re new to Puerto Rican cooking or grew up with these flavors, this stew delivers satisfaction in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew

It’s hearty, soulful, and packed with rich, savory flavor. What makes this stew stand out is its unique blend of traditional Puerto Rican seasonings. The beef is seared until golden, then simmered in a robust tomato-based broth with potatoes and carrots that soak up every ounce of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.

The recipe is also wonderfully flexible. You can cook it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even a pressure cooker. It freezes well too, so go ahead and make a big batch!

What Kind of Beef Should I Use?

For the most tender, flavorful stew, go with chuck roast or stewing beef. These cuts have enough marbling to break down during the slow cooking process, making them juicy and full of flavor. Cut the beef into medium-sized chunks so they hold up in the simmer and don’t get lost in the sauce. If you’re in a pinch, sirloin will work too, but you may need to adjust your cooking time.

Ingredients for the Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew

This stew is all about building flavor, so each ingredient plays a key role in the final dish.

Beef chuck roast – The star of the dish, this cut is perfect for long, slow simmering.

Sofrito – This traditional Puerto Rican blend of garlic, onion, peppers, cilantro, and herbs is essential for depth.

Tomato sauce – Adds body and richness to the stew base.

Potatoes – They soak up the broth and make the dish even more filling.

Carrots – Bring sweetness and contrast to the savory meat.

Olives – Add briny complexity that balances the flavors.

Bay leaves – Infuse the stew with a subtle earthiness.

Adobo and Sazon seasoning – These pantry staples are non-negotiable in Puerto Rican cooking for their bold, layered flavor.

Beef broth – Helps tenderize the meat while creating a deliciously savory sauce.

Olive oil – Used for searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics.

How To Make the Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season your beef with adobo and sear in batches until all sides are browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

In the same pot, add sofrito and cook for a few minutes until aromatic. Stir in tomato sauce and cook for another couple of minutes, allowing the base to deepen in color.

Step 3: Simmer and Soften

Return the seared beef to the pot along with beef broth, olives, bay leaves, and Sazon. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Toss in chopped potatoes and carrots. Simmer uncovered for another 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and the stew has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Final Taste

Adjust seasonings as needed. Remove bay leaves and serve hot over white rice.

How to Serve and Store This Puerto Rican Beef Stew

This dish is all about comfort, so serve it piping hot over a bed of fluffy white rice or alongside tostones. The stew also pairs well with a side of avocado slices or a fresh green salad. It feeds around 4 to 6 people generously, especially when served with rice or bread.

Leftovers store beautifully. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze this stew for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

What to Serve With Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew?

White Rice

Classic and necessary. The rice soaks up all that saucy goodness.

Tostones

Crunchy fried plantains add texture and a touch of saltiness that contrast the soft stew.

Avocado Salad

A simple mix of avocado, tomato, and lime brings refreshing balance.

Garlic Bread

Not traditional, but perfect for sopping up that luscious gravy.

Sweet Fried Plantains

If you prefer a sweeter side, ripe plantains caramelized in the pan are a great match.

Puerto Rican Rice with Pigeon Peas (Arroz con Gandules)

Make it a real feast by adding this festive side.

Green Beans with Garlic

Lightly sautéed green beans cut through the richness.

Cornbread

If you’re going for soul food fusion, a thick slice of cornbread fits right in.

Want More Beef Recipes with a Twist?

If this stew has you craving more rich and hearty meals, check out these flavorful options next:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a cheesy comfort bowl.

• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta that’s quick, creamy, and family-friendly.

• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you love pasta and cheesesteak together.

• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a silky, indulgent twist.

• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce when you need something baked and bubbling.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you always have it on hand for cozy nights or family dinners.

Let me know in the comments if you added a little extra heat or swapped in yucca for potatoes. Did you go stovetop, slow cooker, or pressure cooker?

I love seeing how you make these dishes your own, and if you need help troubleshooting or want ideas for variations, just ask!

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