Description
Colombian Carne Desmechada is tender, juicy shredded beef simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, and spices. This traditional Colombian dish is perfect for serving with rice, arepas, or fried plantains, offering a comforting taste of home.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds flank steak (or skirt steak, brisket, or chuck roast)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups water or beef broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 large tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil and Tenderize the Beef: In a large pot, add beef, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1½–2 hours until tender. Remove beef, cool slightly, shred with two forks, and reserve 1 cup of the cooking liquid.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and peppers; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add tomatoes, cumin, paprika, and salt. Cook until tomatoes break down into a thick sauce.
- Combine and Simmer: Add shredded beef to the skillet and mix well. Pour in reserved broth and simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the beef.
- Serve and Garnish: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice, arepas, fried plantains, or avocado.
Notes
- Use flank or brisket for best flavor and tenderness.
- Simmer long enough for the sauce to cling to the meat.
- Add lime juice before serving for brightness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze portions for up to 3 months; reheat with a splash of broth.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dinner, Latin Recipes, Beef Dishes
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Colombian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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