Portuguese Beef Stew

Name: Portuguese Beef Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 180 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Portuguese
Ingredients: 1.5 kg beef chuck (cut into 4 cm cubes); 2 large onions (chopped); 4 garlic cloves (minced); 3 carrots (sliced); 2 potatoes (peeled and cubed); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup red wine; 500 ml beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme; 2 bay leaves; to taste salt and pepper

180 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

A hearty and flavourful Portuguese beef stew that warms the soul, featuring tender beef, rich spices, and classic vegetables.

Prep

20 min

Cook

150 min

Total

180 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Nothing beats the comfort of a hearty stew on a chilly day, and Mom's Portuguese Beef Stew is the ultimate soul-warmer. Bursting with robust flavours and tender beef, this dish is a staple in Portuguese households. It's a perfect balance of aromatic spices and wholesome ingredients, making every bite a delightful experience. This version of Portuguese beef stew stands out because it honours traditional cooking methods while being approachable for home cooks. With its rich, savoury broth and tender chunks of beef, it's an ode to the comforting dishes of Portugal. Whether you're new to making stews or an experienced cook, this recipe will guide you to a satisfying meal. Ideal for those who cherish family recipes and appreciate the depth of flavours that come from slow-cooking, this stew is not only a meal but a comforting embrace on a plate.

Instructions

Prepare the beef

Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Pro tip: Ensure the beef is well browned for maximum flavour.

Cook the aromatics

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning.

Deglaze the pot

Pour in red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits. Cook until the wine reduces by half.

Pro tip: This process adds depth to the stew.

Combine ingredients

Return beef to the pot, along with carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, paprika, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.

Simmer the stew

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until beef is tender.

Pro tip: Check occasionally and stir to prevent sticking.

Adjust seasoning

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning towards the end for best results.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a well-marbled cut of beef for the best flavour and tenderness.
Sear the beef properly to lock in juices and enhance the stew's depth.
Adjust the seasoning towards the end to balance flavours.
Let the stew rest for a few minutes to allow flavours to meld.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of beef is best for Portuguese stew?

Beef chuck is ideal for Portuguese stew due to its marbling, which results in tender, flavourful meat after slow cooking.

How long should Portuguese beef stew cook?

The stew should simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours until the beef is tender.

Can I make Portuguese beef stew ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.

What can I serve with Portuguese beef stew?

Serve it with crusty bread and a robust red wine like Portuguese Douro to complement the stew's rich flavours.

How do I thicken Portuguese beef stew?

The stew will naturally thicken as it cooks. For a thicker consistency, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of simmering.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mom's Portuguese Beef Stew with crusty bread to soak up the rich, savoury broth. Pair it with a robust red wine, such as a Portuguese Douro, to complement the stew's flavours. This stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavours deepen as it sits, making it an excellent option for meal prep. For longer storage, freeze the stew in airtight containers for up to three months.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

38g

Protein

20g

Fat

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