In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.

In the same pot, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft.

Add the meat and seasonings:

Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, chili powder, paprika, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the meat is tender, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more broth or water.

Once the meat is tender, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaves before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro.

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth (or water)

1/4 cup tomato sauce

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/2 medium onion, diced

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon cumin

Salt to taste

In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until it is lightly golden.

Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft.

Combine with broth and tomato sauce:

Add the chicken broth, tomato sauce, cumin, and salt. Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup vegetable shortening or lard

3/4 cup warm water

In a bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add warm water until a soft dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly. Using a rolling pin, roll each piece into a thin circle.

In a hot skillet or griddle, cook each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until lightly browned and cooked through. Keep warm in a tortilla warmer or wrapped in a clean towel.

Serve

Serve the Carne Guisada with a side of Mexican Rice and warm Flour Tortillas. Enjoy your hearty and delicious meal!