“Carne en Su Jugo” or “Meat in Its Own Juice” is a beloved Mexican dish originating from the state of Jalisco. This flavorful dish features tender beef cooked in a broth made from its own juices, creating a rich, savory flavor that is comforting and satisfying. Often garnished with crispy bacon, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lime, it’s a dish that captures the heart of traditional Mexican home cooking.
The Essence of Carne en Su Jugo
The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor. The beef is cooked slowly in its own juices, along with a blend of fresh tomatillos, jalapeños, and onions, creating a rich and aromatic broth. The result is a bowl of tender, juicy meat that is full of robust, earthy flavors, perfectly complemented by a variety of fresh toppings.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef (typically flank steak or sirloin), cut into small cubes
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 4 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 avocado, diced (optional, for garnish)
- Radishes, sliced (optional, for garnish)
- Tortillas, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Brown the Beef:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cubed beef to the pot with the bacon fat. Brown the meat on all sides, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pot. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
- Prepare the Green Sauce:
- In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion, cooking until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- While the onions and garlic are cooking, place the tomatillos and jalapeños in a blender along with the chopped cilantro, and blend until smooth.
- Pour the green sauce into the pot with the onions and garlic, stirring to combine.
- Simmer the Meat:
- Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any accumulated juices. Add the beef broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the meat cook slowly in its own juices for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add the Beans (Optional):
- If using pinto beans, stir them into the pot during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, allowing them to heat through and absorb some of the flavors.
- Finish and Serve:
- Just before serving, stir in the juice of two limes for a bright, tangy finish. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the carne en su jugo into bowls, and garnish with the reserved crispy bacon, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and sliced radishes if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve with warm tortillas on the side, allowing diners to scoop up the meat and soak up the rich broth.
Tips for Success
- Meat Choice: Flank steak or sirloin are traditional choices, but you can use other cuts of beef as long as they are suitable for slow cooking.
- Adjusting Heat: For a milder version, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds. For more heat, leave the seeds in or add an extra jalapeño.
- Broth: If you prefer a thicker broth, let the dish simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes to reduce the liquid.
A Hearty, Flavorful Meal
“Carne en Su Jugo” is a dish that’s packed with layers of flavor. The slow-cooked beef, combined with the bright and tangy green sauce, creates a comforting meal that’s both hearty and full of character.
Final Thoughts
This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, especially when served with a side of warm tortillas and your favorite toppings. The combination of tender beef, crispy bacon, and fresh garnishes makes each bite a delicious experience that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re new to Mexican cuisine or a seasoned fan, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the rich flavors of Jalisco.