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Carne Mechada Puerto Rican Recipe
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Carne Mechada Puerto Rican Recipe

Are you looking for a tasty and comforting dish to add to your family dinner? Carne Mechada Puerto Rican Recipe is a great choice! This dish is made with shredded beef that is cooked slowly and mixed with a flavorful sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Beef = 2 to 3 pounds chuck roast or flank steak
  • Tomato Sauce = 01 can 15 ounces
  • Onion = 01 medium chopped
  • Green Bell Pepper = 01 chopped
  • Red Bell Pepper = 01 chopped
  • Garlic = 04 cloves minced
  • Cumin = 01 teaspoon ground
  • Oregano = 01 teaspoon
  • Paprika = 01 teaspoon
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Beef = 01 cup broth
  • Olive Oil = 02 tablespoons
  • Vinegar = 01 tablespoon Optional

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker or Large Pot
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Fork (for shredding the beef)

Method
 

  1. Step by Step Instructions:
Step 01: Prepare the Beef
  1. Trim excess fat from the beef.
  2. Cut the beef into large chunks.
  3. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
  4. Add cumin, oregano, and paprika for flavor.
Step 02: Sear the Beef
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot.
  2. Add the beef chunks to the pot.
  3. Sear the beef on all sides until browned.
Step 03: Add Vegetables
  1. Add chopped onion to the pot.
  2. Stir in the green and red bell peppers.
  3. Add minced garlic and mix well.
Step 04: Mix the Sauce
  1. In a bowl, combine tomato sauce and beef broth.
  2. Add vinegar if you choose to use it.
  3. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables.
Step 05: Cook the Meat
  1. For a slow cooker, cover and cook on low.
  2. Cook for 6-8 hours until the beef is tender.
  3. On the stove, cover and simmer on low heat.
  4. Cook for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 06: Shred the Beef
  1. Remove the beef from the pot.
  2. Place it on a cutting board.
  3. Use two forks to shred the beef into pieces.
Step 07: Thicken the Sauce
  1. Simmer the sauce uncovered for a few minutes.
  2. Return the shredded beef to the pot.
  3. Stir well to combine the beef and sauce.
Step 08: Serve
  1. Serve Carne Mechada warm on plates.
  2. Enjoy it with rice, beans, or fried plantains!
Servings and Preparation Times
  1. Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  2. Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker) or 3-4 hours (stovetop)
  3. Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes, depending on the cooking method.
  4. Serves: This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on portion sizes. It’s perfect for a family dinner or gathering, and leftovers can be enjoyed for days!

Notes

  • Choosing the Right Cut of Meat: For the best results, choose a cut of beef that is suitable for slow cooking. Chuck roast or flank steak works great, as they become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.
  • Marinate the Meat: For extra flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight with your favorite spices and seasonings. This will enhance the taste of the meat when it cooks.
  • Don’t Rush the Cooking: The key to tender Carne Mechada is slow cooking. Allow the meat to cook for several hours on low heat so it can absorb all the flavors and become easy to shred.
  • Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of spices or omit any hot peppers. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
  • Serving Suggestions: Carne Mechada can be served in many ways. Enjoy it with rice, in a sandwich, or over mashed potatoes. Get creative with your serving options!