If you're looking for a recipe for a delicious, easy-to-make, and hearty meat dish, here's Carne Colorada. This is a traditional recipe from Ecuadorian cuisine, although it is also common in other Latin American cuisines. It consists of beef cut into cubes and marinated in a special preparation that not...

Red meat recipe
Prep Time
1hr 15min
Cook Time
45min
Total Time
2hr

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 portion of beef with sides)
  • beef
    beef
    1kg
  • beer
    beer
    4tbsp
  • lard
    lard
    2tbsp
  • plantains cut into quarters and fried
    plantains cut into quarters and fried
    2
  • avocados sliced
    avocados sliced
    2
  • garlic
    garlic
    2clove
  • medium onion
    medium onion
    1
  • achiote en pepa (annatto seeds)
    achiote en pepa (annatto seeds)
    1tbsp
  • oregano
    oregano
    1tsp
  • lemon juice
    lemon juice
    1tbsp
  • potatoes
    potatoes
    4
  • cumin
    cumin
    1/2tsp
  • salt to taste
    salt to taste

How to make Red meat

  1. Step 1

    Cut the beef into thick strips and then into cubes.

  2. Step 2

    In a blender, combine the garlic cloves, onion (cut into quarters), achiote en pepa (annatto seeds), cumin, oregano, lemon juice, beer, and salt to taste. Blend until you achieve a thick paste.

  3. Step 3

    Pour the mixture into a bowl and add the beef. Let it marinate for one hour.

  4. Step 4

    Heat the lard (or butter) in a skillet and slowly fry the beef until it is golden brown and tender on the inside.

  5. Step 5

    Cut the potatoes into thick slices and fry them until they are cooked through and golden.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

731.4kcal (36.57%)

Protein

54.5g (100%)

Carbs

4.0g (1.45%)

Sugars

0.5g (0.94%)

Healthy Fat

27.6g

Unhealthy Fat

21.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a more intense flavor, you can marinate the beef overnight in the refrigerator.

  2. If you can't find achiote en pepa, you can use ground annatto as a substitute.

  3. Serve the dish immediately to enjoy the full flavor and texture of the fried components.

FAQS

  1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

    Traditionally, beef is used for Carne Colorada, but you can experiment with pork or chicken if desired. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

  2. What can I use instead of lard?

    You can substitute lard with butter or vegetable oil for frying.

  3. How do I store leftovers?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

  4. Can I make this dish spicy?

    Yes, you can add chili powder or fresh chili peppers to the marinade for a spicier version.

  5. What is the best way to serve this dish?

    Serve Carne Colorada with fried plantains, avocado slices, and fried potatoes for a complete and authentic Ecuadorian meal.

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