Carne en su Jugo, or “meat in its juice,” is one of Mexico’s most popular dishes from the state of Jalisco and, more specifically, the city of Guadalajara. Soul-warming flank steak pairs with crispy bacon and pinto beans in their most tender incarnation, set against a vivid green tomatillo-based broth that’s infused with just a hint of heat from serrano peppers and a touch of depth from garlic. Topped with fresh cilantro, red onion, and a squeeze of lime, it’s the perfect mix of savory, tangy, and spicy.
Perfect for family gatherings or as a simple supper, this carne en su jugo recipe serves six, with plenty of stew in each bowl. In this post, you’ll find details about ingredients, preparation, health benefits, serving suggestions, variations, and more — everything you need to confidently make this classic at home.
Carne en su Jugo
Equipment
- 1 Blender For blending broth
- 2 Saucepan One for broth, one for beans
- 1 Large skillet To cook steak & bacon
- 1 Knife For chopping
- 1 Cutting board For prepping ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 medium Fresh Tomatillos Husked
- 3 whole Serrano Chile Peppers Seeded and chopped
- 1 clove Garlic Peeled
- 3 cups Water
- 6 slices Bacon Cooked and crumbled
- 2 pounds Flank Steak Cut into ½-inch squares
- 4 teaspoons Chicken Bouillon Granules
- 2 cans Pinto Beans 15.5 oz cans, warmed
- ½ medium Onion Chopped, for garnish
- 6 tablespoons Fresh Cilantro Chopped, for garnish
- to taste Ground Black Pepper For seasoning
- 1 whole Lime Cut into 6 wedges
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine husked tomatillos, chopped serrano peppers, garlic, and water. Boil, then simmer 10 minutes. Blend until smooth and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
- In a non-stick skillet, brown steak pieces until cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add the tomatillo blend to the steak. Add bouillon granules, cover, and simmer 30–60 minutes.
- Warm pinto beans in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add beans and bacon to the steak mixture. Stir and season with pepper.
- Serve in bowls with chopped onion, cilantro, and a lime wedge.
Notes
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Carne en su Jugo is a wholesome and satisfying dish. Many of its ingredients bring strong nutritional value:
- Tomatillos: Low in calories (approx. 11 per medium tomatillo) and rich in vitamin C to help boost immunity, and vitamin K for bone health.
- Serrano Peppers: Packed with capsaicin, which helps boost metabolism and reduce inflammation. Also a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Flank Steak: Lean and protein-rich (23g per 3 oz), flank steak provides heme iron and zinc for muscle development and immune function.
- Pinto Beans: High in fiber (15g per cup) and plant-based protein, pinto beans support digestion, regulate blood sugar, and promote fullness.
- Cilantro: Contains vitamins A and C, supports detoxification, and may assist in removing heavy metals from the body.
- Lime: A source of vitamin C, lime juice supports collagen formation and boosts immunity while brightening flavor naturally.
- Garlic & Onion: Both offer antioxidants and compounds that support heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.
Bacon is used sparingly for its flavor, as it’s high in sodium and saturated fat. A low-sodium version is a better alternative when possible.
Serving Ideas and Variations
Carne en su Jugo is versatile in how it can be presented and enjoyed:
Serving Ideas:
- Family Dinner: Serve with warm corn tortillas and a side of Mexican rice.
- Game Day: Offer in small bowls with tortilla chips for a hearty, shareable snack.
- Winter Gathering: Pair with a cucumber and radish salad to balance the heat.
Variations:
- Spicier: Leave seeds in the serrano peppers or add jalapeños for extra heat.
- Vegetarian: Use mushrooms or jackfruit instead of steak, and swap in veggie bouillon.
- Alternative Proteins: Try chicken breast or pork shoulder for a different flavor profile.
- Different Beans: Black beans or kidney beans offer variety in flavor and texture.
Whether you’re honoring the carne en su jugo origin or putting a creative spin on it, the dish adapts well to different dietary needs.
Tips on Ingredient Selection and Storage
For best flavor and freshness:
- Tomatillos: Choose firm, green ones with tight husks. Store in a paper bag in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
- Serrano Peppers: Look for glossy, firm peppers. Store in a plastic bag in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Flank Steak: Choose bright red meat with minimal white marbling. Store refrigerated up to 3 days, or freeze up to 6 months.
- Pinto Beans: Use canned beans for ease (rinse before using). Store unopened cans for up to 2 years; opened ones for 4 days refrigerated.
- Bacon: Go for thick-cut. Store in the fridge for 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Cilantro & Onion: Select vibrant cilantro and firm, dry onions. Store cilantro in a glass with water covered by a plastic bag (up to 2 weeks); onions in a dry, cool spot (up to 1 month).
Pro Tip: Make the tomatillo broth and cook steak a day in advance for deeper flavor. Add toppings right before serving for freshness.
Beverage Pairings
The rich, tangy, and spicy flavors of carne en su jugo pair well with:
- Beer: Mexican lagers like Modelo Especial or Corona balance the heat and savoriness.
- Wine: A light Pinot Noir or crisp Albariño complements the tangy broth and meat.
- Non-Alcoholic: Try horchata for a creamy contrast or tamarind agua fresca for tangy brightness.
- Cocktail: A classic lime margarita pairs perfectly with the citrusy, smoky notes of the dish.
Best Time of Day to Consume
Carne en su Jugo is ideal for lunch or dinner, especially in the cooler months. Its warm, comforting flavors make it a wonderful fall or winter staple. Rich in protein and fiber, it keeps you full and energized, making it a perfect option after a long day — whether you’re sharing with family or savoring solo.
Conclusion
Carne en su Jugo is a comforting, adaptable, and richly flavorful dish that captures the heart of Mexican home cooking. Rooted in carne en su jugo origin stories from Guadalajara, it brings together lean beef, nourishing beans, and bright vegetables in a deeply satisfying way. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or looking for a soul-warming weeknight meal, this dish delivers.
Follow the step-by-step guide, use fresh ingredients, and don’t forget to pair it with a refreshing drink. You’ll experience a true taste of Mexico — warm, hearty, and unforgettable.
