4 Irresistible Steps to the Perfect Carne en su Jugo Recipe: Authentic Mexican Flavor in Every Bite

Carne en su jugo is a classic Mexican dish from the Jalisco region, offering a cozy and savory escape into authentic flavors. This beef-based stew combines tender meat simmered in its juices with fresh green tomatillo sauce, crispy bacon, and beans for a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and downright irresistible. Think of it as a Mexican-style broth with rich layers of flavor. If you’re looking for a comforting recipe with rich flavors that are deeply rooted in Mexican tradition, carne en su jugo will soon be your go-to meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Authentic Mexican Flavors: Carne en su jugo is a unique way to explore traditional Mexican flavors beyond tacos and enchiladas.

Great for Meal Prep: It tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal dish to prepare ahead of time.

Simple, Comforting Ingredients: With ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, carne en su jugo comes together with a few key ingredients, creating a deeply flavorful dish.

Naturally Low-Carb and High in Protein: This stew focuses on beef and green vegetables, perfect for those watching their carb intake.

Adaptable and customizable: To fit your tastes, use various proteins or swap out the toppings.

Health Benefits of the Main Ingredients

• Beef: A great source of high-quality protein, iron, and B vitamins, beef supports muscle growth, immune function, and energy levels. For more information on nutrition facts and health effects, check out this article.
• Tomatillos: Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, tomatillos promote heart health, immune defense, and digestion. Check out this article for more information on health benefits.
• Beans: Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, beans help stabilize blood sugar, improve digestion, and support cardiovascular health.
• Garlic: Garlic contains allicin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, beneficial for heart health and immunity.
• Green Onions: Green onions are high in vitamin K and other antioxidants, and they promote healthy bones and protect cells from damage.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Beef: Traditionally, carne en su jugo uses flank steak, which is lean but tender when cooked in liquid. For a budget-friendly option, you can substitute with chuck roast or skirt steak.

Tomatillos: Essential for the green sauce that flavors this dish. Tomatillos have a tart, fresh flavor, but if unavailable, green tomatoes can work as an alternative, though they’re milder in taste.

Bacon: Adds a smoky depth of flavor. Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon can be used for a lighter or meat-free version.

Beans: Pinto beans are traditional, adding richness and heartiness. Black beans or navy beans can be used for a slight flavor variation.

Green Onions and Cilantro: These fresh garnishes bring the dish together. Regular onions or parsley can work as substitutes, though they’ll get a different flavor profile.

How to Make Carne en su Jugo (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatillo Sauce

1. Cook Tomatillos: In a medium saucepan, add tomatillos and cover them with water. Simmer for about 5 minutes until softened, then drain and set aside.
2. Blend the Sauce: In a blender, add cooked tomatillos, garlic, green onions, and a handful of cilantro. If necessary, to achieve consistency, add a small amount of water and blend until smooth. Set the sauce aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Beef

1. Crisp the Bacon: In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, reserving a bit of the rendered fat for cooking the beef.
2. Brown the Beef: Season the beef with salt and pepper and add it to the saucepan with the bacon grease. The meat should be browned on both sides after sautéing.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

1. Add Sauce and Broth: Pour the tomatillo sauce over the browned beef, then add enough beef broth to cover. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Simmer: Reduce heat, cover, and let the stew cook for 30–40 minutes until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Add Bacon and Beans: Just before serving, stir in the crispy bacon and cooked pinto beans. Warm through for 5–10 minutes.
2. Serve: Ladle the carne en su jugo into bowls, garnishing with fresh green onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Serve warm tortillas or crispy bread alongside.

Expert Tips for Success

• Sear the Meat for Extra Flavor: Browning the beef adds depth to the stew and enhances its flavor.
• Adjust the Consistency of the Sauce: If you like a thicker broth, reduce the amount of beef broth. Add extra for a soupier consistency.
• Use Fresh Tomatillos: Fresh tomatillos give the best flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, canned tomatillos can work—rinse them first.
• Don’t Skimp on Toppings: Garnishes like green onions, cilantro, and lime juice add a final layer of brightness and freshness to the dish.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the tomatillo sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap beef with mushrooms and skip the bacon for a plant-based twist.
• Use Chicken Instead of Beef: For a lighter option, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of beef. Adjust cooking time, as the chicken will cook faster.
• Add Roasted Poblanos: For a smoky kick, add roasted poblano peppers to the tomatillo sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Keep any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container.
• Freezing: Carne en su jugo can be frozen for up to 2 months. Before putting it in a freezer-safe container, let it cool.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat until warm, stirring occasionally. If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Carne en su Jugo Recipe

Recipe by Chef SarahCourse: LunchCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

45

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

A comforting Mexican beef stew in a tangy tomatillo sauce enriched with beans and crispy bacon.

Ingredients

• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced

• 1/2 pound tomatillos, husked and rinsed

• 4 slices bacon

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 cup cooked pinto beans

• 3 green onions, chopped

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro

• 2 garlic cloves

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Lime wedges for garnish

Directions

• Cook Tomatillos: In a saucepan, boil tomatillos until softened. Blend with garlic, green onions, and cilantro until smooth.
• Prepare Bacon and Beef: Cook bacon until crispy; remove and set aside. In the same pot, brown the beef.
• Combine: Add the tomatillo sauce and beef broth to the pot with beef. Simmer for 30–40 minutes.
• Finish: Add crispy bacon and beans, then warm through. Serve hot, garnished with green onions, cilantro, and lime.

Notes

• For a thicker stew, reduce the beef broth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, and add fresh lime juice for brightness.

More Recipes to Try

• Cajun Chicken Alfredo: A Hot Take on a Traditional Comfort Food
• Perfectly Steamed Snow Crab Legs Recipe
• Mississippi Chicken Recipe: A Flavor-Packed, Effortless Dinner You’ll Love

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Carne en su jugo captures the heart of Mexican comfort food, offering a flavorful journey into authentic Mexican cuisine. Simple yet rich, it’s a dish that anyone can master and enjoy. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or indulge in a warming meal, carne en su jugo is sure to deliver satisfaction with every spoonful. So gather your ingredients and experience the soul-soothing flavors of Jalisco—right in your kitchen.