Stew Beef Taco Tips?

Tips for Making Stew Beef Tacos?

I originally planned to make slow cooker lengua tacos, but after ordering from Uber Eats, I found out they were out of tongue. So, I opted for stew beef instead.

I’ve been researching different carne guisada recipes and I think I’ve got all the ingredients covered. However, I’m curious about other methods of preparing the beef beyond just simmering the same recipe in a cast iron skillet versus a slow cooker. I have a feeling the slow cooker will yield more tender results.

I’d love any tips or suggestions before I start cooking in a day or two!


Comments

One response to “Stew Beef Taco Tips?”

  1. Stew beef is a great substitute for lengua in tacos, and there are definitely several ways to prepare it. Here are some tips and alternative methods to consider:

    1. Pressure Cooker/Instant Pot: If you have one, a pressure cooker can significantly reduce the cooking time while still making the beef tender. You can sauté the beef first in the pot, add your spices and other ingredients, then cook on high pressure for about 30-40 minutes, depending on how tender you want the beef.

    2. Braising: Instead of just simmering, try browning the stew beef in a Dutch oven, then adding your liquids and aromatics. Cover it and let it braise in the oven at a low temperature for several hours (around 300°F) for a rich flavor and tender texture.

    3. Shredded Beef Method: You can cook the stew beef until it’s tender and easily shredded, then mix it with your favorite taco toppings for a different texture. Just like with pulled pork, this can give your tacos a unique flair.

    4. Marinating: Consider marinating the beef overnight in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, cumin, and chili powder before cooking. This can impart additional flavor and help tenderize the meat.

    5. Taco Assembly: For a twist, consider finishing your tacos with a quick sear in a hot skillet after assembly. This can help crisp up the tortillas and melt cheese if you’re using it.

    6. Try Different Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices beyond those in traditional carne guisada. Adding some chipotle or a smoky paprika can offer a nice depth, or a bit of pineapple juice can add sweetness and tenderize.

    7. Serving Options: Serve alongside your usual toppings, but consider adding pickled onions or a fresh salsa to balance the richness of the beef.

    Overall, using a slow cooker will yield tender beef, but don’t hesitate to explore these other cooking methods for a different twist on your tacos. Enjoy your cooking!

Leave a Reply