Carne Mechada

Carne Mechada is a traditional Venezuelan dish consisting of slow-cooked, shredded beef that is typically seasoned with a rich base of tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and garlic. It is a staple comfort food in Venezuela and is most famously served as the filling for the country's national dish, the arepa. The preparation involves simmering the meat until it is incredibly tender before shredding it and mixing it with the savory sofrito.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is a high-protein meal, primarily due to the beef, and is generally low in carbohydrates unless served with sides like arepas or rice. It provides essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins from the meat, while the vegetable base adds vitamins A and C. A typical serving (about 1 cup of the meat mixture) contains roughly 300-400 calories, depending on the cut of beef and the amount of oil used.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	250 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbs	5 g
Fat	14 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	2 g
Sodium	480 mg
Potassium	350 mg
Iron	3.5 mg
Zinc	6 mg
Vitamin B12	2.5 mcg
Niacin (B3)	5 mg
Phosphorus	220 mg
Selenium	30 mcg
Vitamin B6	0.5 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Carne Mechada is a cornerstone of Venezuelan identity, often served during family gatherings and national holidays, symbolizing the country's culinary heritage. Nutritionally, the slow-cooking method helps break down connective tissues, making the protein more digestible and allowing the flavors of the vegetables and spices to deeply penetrate the meat, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish without excessive fat.