Carne en su Jugo Recipe – Authentic Mexican Beef Dish

Carne en su jugo is a comforting Mexican stew from Guadalajara that blends beef, tomatillo salsa, beans, and crispy bacon into one delicious bowl. The name translates to “meat in its juices,” referring to the way the beef is cooked in its own broth and flavors. This carne en su jugo recipe is authentic, easy to follow, and perfect for those craving something rich and hearty. Whether you’re new to carne en sus jugos or looking for a flavorful meal to impress guests, this dish delivers.

Prep Time: 25 mins

Cook Time: 55 mins

Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 6 slices bacon

  • 3 cups water

  • 4 tomatillos, husked

  • 3 serrano chiles, seeded and chopped

  • 1 garlic clove, peeled

  • 2 pounds flank steak, cut into ½-inch pieces

  • 1 chicken bouillon cube

  • 2 (15.5 oz) cans pinto beans

  • ½ onion, chopped

  • 6 tbsp chopped cilantro

  • Ground black pepper, to taste

  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Carne en su Jugo

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon until crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Once cooked, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Crumble the bacon into small bits and set aside. The bacon adds a smoky crunch to the final dish and enhances the flavor of the broth.

Step 2: Make the Tomatillo Salsa

In a small saucepan, add 3 cups of water, tomatillos, serrano peppers, and garlic. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes. Let the mixture cool slightly, then blend it until smooth. This tomatillo salsa gives the dish its signature green color and tangy, spicy flavor — essential for authentic Mexican Beef Dish guadalajara style.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

In a large nonstick skillet, cook the flank steak over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pan — sear in batches if needed. Once browned, pour in the tomatillo salsa and stir in the chicken bouillon. Cover and let simmer on medium-low for 30–60 minutes, until the beef is tender and infused with flavor.

Step 4: Warm the Beans

While the beef simmers, warm the pinto beans in a separate pot over low heat. You don’t want to boil them, just heat them enough so they’re ready to mix in at the end. Using canned beans saves time without sacrificing taste.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Once the beef is tender, stir in the warm pinto beans and crumbled bacon. Mix everything well and let it cook for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors. Serve in bowls, and top each serving with chopped onion, fresh cilantro, black pepper, and a lime wedge. Enjoy this soul-warming carne en su jugo with tortillas or crusty bread.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 373

  • Protein: 29g

  • Carbs: 28g

  • Fat: 16g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What does carne en su jugo mean?
A: It means meat in its juices ,beef cooked in a broth made from its own drippings, salsa, and seasoning.

Q2: Can I make carne en su jugo spicy?
A: Yes! Leave seeds in the serrano peppers or add jalapeños to increase heat.

Q3: What’s the difference between carne en su jugo and carne en su juego?
A: Carne en su juego is a common misspelling. The correct term is carne en su jugo.