Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re longing for a bowl of rich, comforting stew that warms your soul with every bite, this Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew delivers on all fronts. With its tender chunks of beef, hearty root vegetables, and a robust blend of Caribbean spices, this dish is both nostalgic and flavorful. It’s the kind of meal that transforms your kitchen into a space filled with savory aromas and your dinner table into a gathering of satisfied smiles.

Puerto Rican Beef Stew, or “Carne Guisada,” is more than just a stew. It’s a cultural staple that’s been handed down through generations. This recipe is designed to bring out the deep, rich flavor in every bite while keeping the beef incredibly moist. Whether you’re serving it over fluffy white rice or enjoying it with crusty bread, this dish is a slow-cooked treasure.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew, having the right tools makes a big difference in flavor and texture:

• Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottom Pot: This is essential for browning the meat and slow-simmering the stew evenly. Its thick walls help maintain consistent heat.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For cleanly chopping meat, potatoes, carrots, and aromatic ingredients.
• Cutting Board: A large, sturdy board to give you ample space for prepping all your ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon: Helps you stir gently without damaging the beef as it becomes tender.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy in seasoning is key to the balance of flavors in this stew.
• Ladle: Makes serving easier without disturbing the beautifully tender chunks of meat and vegetables.

Each of these tools ensures the stew is built layer by layer, locking in moisture and depth. A good pot and a sharp knife are the real game changers here.

---

Ingredients for the Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew

Each ingredient in this stew plays a critical role in building flavor and creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Beef Stew Meat: The heart of the dish. Choose chuck roast or similar cuts for maximum tenderness after slow cooking.
• Potatoes: These absorb the stew’s rich broth and add satisfying heartiness.
• Carrots: Slightly sweet and earthy, they balance the savory depth of the beef.
• Tomato Sauce: Provides a rich, acidic base that thickens and flavors the broth.
• Sofrito: A Puerto Rican essential, this aromatic mix of onions, peppers, garlic, and herbs is key to authentic flavor.
• Beef Bouillon or Stock: Deepens the umami and savory notes in the stew.
• Olive Oil: Used to brown the meat and vegetables, adding richness.
• Salt & Pepper: The foundation of seasoning.
• Cumin & Oregano: Bring warmth and depth with traditional island spice.
• Bay Leaf: Adds subtle herbal notes during the long simmer.

---

How To Make the Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a Dutch oven. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then brown it in batches. This builds flavor at the base of the pot and ensures a caramelized crust.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Once the beef is browned and set aside, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the sofrito until fragrant—this is the backbone of your flavor.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

Return the beef to the pot, then add tomato sauce, bouillon or stock, cumin, oregano, and the bay leaf. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer. Cover and cook on low for about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Once the beef is nearly fork-tender, add the diced potatoes and carrots. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and the stew is thickened.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf and serve hot with white rice or crusty bread.

---

How to Serve and Store Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew

This stew is meant to be the star of the table. The most traditional way to serve it is ladled generously over a plate of fluffy white rice, which soaks up all that savory broth. You can also enjoy it with fresh crusty bread to mop up every last bit. For a heartier meal, pair it with a side of avocado slices or a simple green salad.

When it comes to storing leftovers, this dish gets even better the next day. Let the stew cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of beef is best for Puerto Rican beef stew?

Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts, which can become tough.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. After browning the beef and sofrito on the stove, transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

What is sofrito and where can I find it?

Sofrito is a blend of onions, peppers, garlic, and herbs used as a cooking base in Puerto Rican cuisine. You can find it jarred in Latin markets or make it fresh at home.

How can I thicken the stew?

If the stew seems too thin, simmer it uncovered for a bit longer or mash a few pieces of potato into the broth to help thicken it naturally.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default, but you can add a dash of hot sauce or chopped chili peppers if you prefer some heat.

Can I use other vegetables?

Definitely! Root vegetables like yuca or plantains are traditional alternatives that pair well with the flavors.

---

Want More Stew and Comfort Food Ideas?

If this Moist Puerto Rican Beef Stew hit the spot, you’ll love exploring more hearty and flavorful meals from my kitchen:

• Easy Crockpot Brisket with Rich Gravy for an ultra-tender, set-it-and-forget-it dinner.
• Delicious Corned Beef Hash for a comforting skillet meal that’s great any time of day.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot with sticky-savory flavors your family will crave.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for a cheesy, meaty pasta bake.
• Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini if you’re in the mood for a bold, saucy pasta.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s right there when you’re craving comfort in a bowl.

Let me know how your stew turned out! Did you use homemade sofrito or store-bought? Did you add extra veggies or spice it up?

I’d love to hear your tips and see your own twists. Drop a comment below — we’re in this cozy cooking thing together.

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?