Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 320 calories per serving
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing and chopping all vegetables. Dice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and chop the tomatoes. Having everything prepared before cooking makes the process much easier and faster.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Break it apart using a wooden spoon. Cook for approximately 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.
If there is excess grease, carefully drain it from the skillet.
Step 4: Add the Seasonings
Sprinkle the cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper over the beef mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
Allow the spices to cook for about 1 minute. This helps release their aroma and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well until everything is combined.
Pour in the beef broth and stir again. Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the mixture to simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. During this time, the flavors will blend together and the liquid will slightly reduce.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Once the mixture has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add additional salt or pepper according to your preference.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the Carne Molida hot with warm tortillas, rice, beans, tacos, burritos, or your favorite Mexican side dishes.
Cooking Intensity Level
Preparation Intensity: Low
This recipe requires only basic chopping and measuring, making it suitable for beginner cooks.
Cooking Intensity: Medium
The beef requires occasional stirring and monitoring during cooking, but no advanced techniques are needed.
Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly
Anyone with basic kitchen skills can successfully prepare this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Carne Molida is extremely versatile and can be served in numerous ways:
- Stuffed inside soft tacos
- Rolled into burritos
- Served over Mexican rice
- Used as a filling for enchiladas
- Added to nachos
- Served in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option
- Topped with avocado, sour cream, and shredded cheese
For an authentic Mexican meal, pair it with refried beans, fresh salsa, and warm corn tortillas.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftover Carne Molida in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Allow the beef mixture to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if the mixture becomes too dry.
Expert Tips
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
- Fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor, but canned diced tomatoes can be substituted.
- Add jalapeños if you prefer extra heat.
- Let the mixture simmer longer for a deeper flavor.
- Fresh cilantro and lime juice should always be added at the end for maximum freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Carne Molida ahead of time?
Yes. This recipe is excellent for meal prep and can be made several days in advance.
Can I use ground turkey instead?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter version.
Is Carne Molida spicy?
This recipe has mild heat. You can easily increase the spice level by adding extra chili powder or fresh jalapeños.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Potassium: 580mg