Carne Seca

Dried And Preserved IngredientBeefNot vegetarianSavorySaltyUmamiBeefyChewyDry-cured

Nutrition (per 100 g)

Calories: 410
Protein (g): 33
Fat (g): 23
Carbs (g): 11
Fiber (g): 0.5
Sodium (mg): 1780

Values vary with salt level and any seasoning; lean cuts tend to raise protein and lower fat.

Storage

Room temp: up to 180 days
Refrigerated: up to 365 days
Frozen: up to 365 days

Carne seca is air-dried, salted beef, usually cut in thin sheets or shredded. Chewy and deeply savory with concentrated beefy flavor, it rehydrates quickly for sautéing or can be crumbled straight into dishes; common uses include eggs, stews, and tacos, and it is sold as sheets, strips, or flakes.

It developed in the arid north of Mexico and the Southwestern United States, related to South American charqui. Producers salt lean beef and dry it with sun, wind, or low heat, a preservation practice still common in Sonora, Chihuahua, Nuevo Leon, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.