Carne Picada is a rich and flavorful braised beef dish that brings the warmth of home-cooked Mexican cuisine to your table. Tender beef chunks are slow-simmered in a fragrant tomato-based sauce, absorbing all the savory goodness of bell peppers, onions, and spices. The result? A melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs beautifully with rice, tacos, or quesadillas.
This dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you enjoy it in tacos topped with fresh cilantro and onions, wrapped in a burrito, or spooned over a steaming plate of Mexican rice, Carne Picada is the perfect meal to satisfy your cravings. Easy to make and bursting with authentic flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Full Recipe:
For the beef:
- 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 pounds chuck roast, excess fat removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (canola or avocado), plus more as needed
For the sauce:
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 5 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 red bell pepper, stem and seeds removed
- 1/4 yellow or white onion (reserve the rest for the braise)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
- 3 cups beef broth
For the braise:
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- Remaining 3/4 yellow or white onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Brown the beef: In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and black pepper. Toss the beef cubes in the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add half the beef and cook undisturbed for 5 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes, ensuring a rich brown color. Remove to a plate and repeat with the remaining beef, adding more oil if necessary.
- Prepare the sauce: While the beef is browning, blend all sauce ingredients (tomato paste, garlic, red bell pepper, onion, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and beef broth) until smooth.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, heat more oil and add sliced red and green bell peppers along with the onion. Season with salt and pepper and cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Braise the beef: Pour in the blended sauce, stirring to deglaze the pot. Add the browned beef, bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on medium-low for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Uncover and cook for another 15 minutes to thicken the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve over rice, in tacos, or as a filling for burritos and quesadillas.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Kcal: 479 kcal per serving | Servings: 4-5 servings
Carne Picada: A Flavorful and Versatile Mexican Braised Beef Dish
Carne Picada is a traditional Mexican dish that showcases the rich and robust flavors of slow-braised beef. The name itself translates to “chopped meat,” but the dish is much more than just cubed beef. It is a delicious combination of tender meat, vibrant bell peppers, onions, and a deeply flavorful tomato-based sauce. Whether served over rice, in tacos, or as a filling for burritos and quesadillas, Carne Picada is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to any meal.
The Origins of Carne Picada
While Carne Picada is widely enjoyed in Mexican cuisine, its preparation and seasoning can vary depending on the region and the cook’s personal preferences. Some versions lean towards a spicy and heavily seasoned profile, while others keep it mild and rely on the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables.
Unlike ground beef taco meat, Carne Picada features larger pieces of beef that are braised until fork-tender. This technique allows the meat to soak up all the seasonings and develop a melt-in-your-mouth texture. While commonly prepared in a slow-cooked style, modern kitchens have adapted this dish for pressure cookers and stovetop methods, making it more accessible for busy home cooks.
Why Carne Picada is a Must-Try Dish
Carne Picada stands out because of its incredible versatility. Once prepared, it can be used in multiple ways, making it an excellent option for meal prep or large family gatherings. Whether you prefer classic rice and beans, a burrito bowl, or a soft taco, this dish can easily adapt to your needs.
The slow braising process ensures that every bite is infused with deep, savory flavors. The combination of bell peppers and onions adds a slightly sweet and smoky dimension, while the tomato-based sauce brings a tangy richness that perfectly complements the beef. The final dish is tender, juicy, and bursting with authentic Mexican flavors.
Choosing the Best Cut of Beef for Carne Picada
The type of beef used in Carne Picada plays a crucial role in the final texture and taste. Chuck roast is the preferred choice because it has the perfect balance of marbling and tenderness, making it ideal for slow braising. When cooked properly, it breaks down beautifully and absorbs all the flavors from the sauce.
While some recipes use skirt steak or flank steak, these cuts can be a bit tougher and require careful slicing to avoid a chewy texture. If you want the most flavorful and tender results, sticking with chuck roast or stew meat is the way to go.
How Carne Picada Differs from Other Mexican Beef Dishes
Mexican cuisine features a variety of slow-cooked beef dishes, but each has its own distinct characteristics:
- Carne Asada – This dish consists of grilled and marinated beef, typically skirt or flank steak, and is sliced thinly for tacos or burritos. Carne Picada, on the other hand, is slow-braised rather than grilled.
- Barbacoa – Traditionally made with beef cheek or other cuts slow-cooked until shredded, Barbacoa is often spicier and more heavily seasoned than Carne Picada.
- Birria – A more complex, slow-stewed dish often served with consommé, Birria has a richer, spicier sauce and is commonly used for tacos.
- Picadillo – While it shares a similar name, Picadillo is a ground beef dish with potatoes, raisins, and a mild tomato-based sauce, making it quite different from Carne Picada.
Best Ways to Serve Carne Picada
One of the best things about Carne Picada is its flexibility. Here are some popular ways to enjoy this dish:
- Tacos: Serve it on warm corn tortillas with chopped onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for an authentic street-style taco experience.
- Rice Bowls: Spoon the beef over cilantro lime rice, adding beans, guacamole, and pico de gallo for a flavorful burrito bowl.
- Burritos & Quesadillas: Wrap it up with cheese and refried beans in a large tortilla or use it as a filling for crispy quesadillas.
- Nachos: Layer Carne Picada over tortilla chips, drizzle with queso, and top with jalapeños and salsa for the ultimate party dish.
- With Mexican Rice & Beans: Keep it traditional and serve Carne Picada alongside a classic plate of arroz rojo (Mexican red rice) and refried beans.
Tips for the Best Carne Picada
To achieve the best results when making Carne Picada, follow these expert tips:
- Sear the Beef First – Browning the meat before braising creates a rich, caramelized flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, onions, and bell peppers add depth and complexity to the sauce.
- Slow Cook for Maximum Flavor – While Carne Picada can be made quickly, letting it simmer for an extended period allows the meat to fully absorb the sauce and become ultra-tender.
- Adjust the Spice Level – If you prefer a bit more heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
How to Store and Reheat Carne Picada
Carne Picada is an excellent dish for meal prep because it stores well and tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Carne Picada freezes well for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: Warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to restore moisture.
Conclusion
Carne Picada is a flavorful and comforting dish that captures the essence of traditional Mexican cooking. Its slow-braised beef, vibrant peppers, and rich tomato-based sauce create a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. Whether served as tacos, in a rice bowl, or as a burrito filling, Carne Picada is a versatile and delicious meal that is sure to become a family favorite.
With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Try making Carne Picada at home and experience the authentic taste of Mexico right from your kitchen!