Carne Apache
Experience the bold and refreshing flavors of *Carne Apache*, a traditional Mexican dish that showcases a unique no-cook preparation method using lime juice to "cook" lean ground beef. This zesty ceviche-style recipe is a vibrant mix of marinated beef combined with fresh Roma tomatoes, crisp white onion, spicy jalapeño peppers, and fragrant cilantro, creating the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and spicy notes. Ready in just 20 minutes of prep time (excluding marination), this chilled dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family, served atop crunchy corn tostadas or alongside tortilla chips for an irresistible appetizer or light meal. Optionally topped with creamy avocado slices, Carne Apache is as visually appealing as it is delicious—perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a refreshing, protein-packed bite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean)
- 10 whole limes
- 4 whole Roma tomatoes
- 1 medium white onion
- 2 whole jalapeño peppers
- 0.5 bunch cilantro
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 whole avocado (optional, for garnish)
- 10 pieces corn tostadas or tortilla chips
Instructions
1. Place the ground beef in a large mixing bowl, breaking it apart slightly.
2. Juice the limes into a separate bowl or directly over the ground beef. Ensure the beef is fully submerged in lime juice, as it will 'cook' in the acidity.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the beef marinate for 1.5 to 2 hours or until it turns brown, indicating it has been fully 'cooked' by the lime juice.
4. While the beef marinates, dice the Roma tomatoes and the white onion into small, even pieces. Set them aside in a medium bowl.
5. Finely dice the jalapeño peppers, removing the seeds if you prefer less heat. Chop the cilantro leaves into small pieces as well. Add both to the bowl with the tomatoes and onion.
6. After the beef has marinated, drain off any excess lime juice and add the beef to the bowl with the chopped vegetables and herbs.
7. Add the salt and black pepper to the beef and vegetable mixture, stirring everything together until well combined.
8. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice if desired.
9. Serve the Carne Apache chilled, either on top of corn tostadas or with tortilla chips on the side. Optionally, garnish with sliced avocado to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2874 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 141.5 g | 181% | |
| Saturated Fat | 39.9 g | 200% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 363 mg | 121% | |
| Sodium | 3958 mg | 172% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 304.3 g | 111% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 55.6 g | 199% | |
| Total Sugars | 23.7 g | ||
| Protein | 149.8 g | 300% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 605 mg | 47% | |
| Iron | 23.5 mg | 131% | |
| Potassium | 4235 mg | 90% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
