Have you ever imagined trying a dish so delicious it leaves you craving more? Today, we bring you an incredible recipe for Carne Louca (Brazilian Pulled Beef Sandwich). This delicacy is simply irresistible: tender shredded beef simmered in a savory, aromatic tomato sauce, served inside a soft roll. It’s an explosion of flavor that will make your mouth water! If you’re ready to experience this culinary wonder, keep reading to learn how to make it.
Ingredients for the Carne Louca:
- 2.2 lbs (1 kg) Top Round Roast or Eye of Round
- Green, yellow, and red bell peppers, chopped
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- Chopped olives
- Fresh parsley and scallions (green onions), chopped
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
How to Make Carne Louca:
- In a pressure cooker, heat a drizzle of olive oil and sear the beef on all sides until browned.
- Dissolve the beef bouillon cubes in about 6 cups (1.5 liters) of boiling water and add it to the pressure cooker with the meat.
- Cook under pressure for about an hour, or until the meat is very tender and shreds easily.
- Remove the meat from the pot and shred it using two forks.
- Reserve the cooking liquid for later use.
- In a large skillet, sauté the onion in olive oil until golden.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and sauté for a few minutes until softened.
- Add the shredded beef to the pan and mix well with the vegetables.
- Stir in the chopped olives and tomato sauce, combining well.
- Season with a pinch of salt to taste.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh parsley and scallions to distribute their fresh aroma and flavor.
- Now, time to assemble! Serve the Carne Louca generously inside your favorite bread roll (French rolls or crusty bread work best).
- Enjoy every bite of this flavor-packed sandwich!
Pro Tip:
Carne Louca is incredibly versatile. Beyond the classic sandwich, you can use the shredded beef as a filling for empanadas, savory pies, or even serve it over rice and a fresh side salad. Get creative!
Did You Know?
Carne Louca is a signature dish from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It’s a staple in local diners and pubs (botequins), perfect for a quick and hearty snack. The name translates roughly to “Crazy Meat,” likely referring to how easily the meat shreds into a messy, flavorful heap.
Now that you know the secrets behind this delicious recipe, it’s time to get cooking and surprise your friends and family with this amazing dish. Enjoy!
Did you enjoy this recipe? Share it with your friends! Check out more delicious snack recipes on our site.









