Ingredients

1 1/4 lbs boneless beef chuck steaks , cut into 4 pieces
3 small white onions , diced
4 cloves garlic , peeled and finely chopped
1 teaspoon vegetable oil , plus oil to a depth of 1/2 inch for frying
1 can whole tomatoes with juice , drained and chopped
1 -2 jalapeno , stemmed , seeded and very finely chopped
salt
1 lb fresh smooth-ground corn masa harina flour , for tortillas
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/3 cup grated monterey jack cheese
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro , for garnish
1/3 cup sour cream
Gorditas con Carne is a classic Mexican dish that originated in northern Mexico and is now a popular staple throughout the country. The word gorditas means 'little fat ones' in Spanish, which refers to the small, puffy tortillas that are stuffed with meat and other fillings. In this recipe, the gorditas are made with fresh masa harina flour, which is a traditional ingredient in Mexican cuisine. The beef chuck steaks are slow-cooked until they are soft and tender, and they are combined with a zesty tomato mixture that is seasoned with garlic, onions, and jalapenos. The result is a hearty and spicy dish that is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2.In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chuck steaks to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer the beef to a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
3.In the same skillet, add the onions and garlic to the leftover oil and cook until translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Add the chopped tomatoes and jalapenos and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt to taste, and keep warm.
4.In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and grated Monterey Jack cheese. Add 1 1/4 cups of warm water and mix until you have a soft dough.
5.Preheat your oven to 200 degrees F.
6.Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a thick patty.
7.Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, fry the gorditas until golden brown, flipping occasionally, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
8.Using a sharp knife, slice horizontally across the gorditas and fill them with the warm tomato mixture. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.

PROS

Gorditas con Carne is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a weekend dinner.
The beef chuck steaks are cooked to perfection and the tomato mixture is a great complement, while the gorditas offer a crispy and chewy texture that is irresistible.
The cilantro and sour cream add a fresh and tangy twist.

CONS

The gorditas are deep-fried, which makes them high in calories and fat.
This dish can be heavy on the stomach if you eat too much, and it is not recommended for people who are watching their weight.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Although Gorditas con Carne is not a health food per se, it does have some nutritional value. The beef chuck steaks are good sources of protein, iron, and zinc, while the fresh corn masa harina flour is high in fiber and minerals. The jalapenos can also provide some health benefits, as they contain capsaicin, which has been linked to pain relief, anti-inflammatory effects, and weight loss.

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