Cacoila (Portuguese Stewed Beef)
Overview:
Cook Time: 4 hours
Prep Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 12 hours
Servings: 4
Calories: 677.8 per serving
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4)
Description:
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of this tender Portuguese stewed beef, simmered to perfection in a rich red wine sauce. Named after the traditional clay pot it’s cooked in, this dish is a culinary delight that’s worth the wait. While the traditional method involves overnight soaking of the pot and slow-cooking for up to 7 hours, this recipe offers a quicker alternative without compromising on taste. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Whether served over rice, pasta, or alongside boiled white potatoes, this dish is sure to impress with its savory allure.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs stewing beef
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 tbsp dried parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup red table wine
- 1 cup tomato sauce
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Marinate the Meat: The day before cooking, marinate the stewing beef with crushed red pepper flakes. Place the meat in a plastic bag or covered dish, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Allow it to marinate overnight, allowing the flavors to infuse. |
| 2 | Prepare the Dutch Oven: In a large heavy Dutch oven, arrange the sliced onion, dried parsley, minced garlic, and bay leaves at the bottom. |
| 3 | Layer the Ingredients: Place the marinated meat on top of the onion mixture. Dot the meat with butter for added richness. |
| 4 | Add the Sauce: Combine the red table wine and tomato sauce, then pour the mixture over the meat in the Dutch oven. |
| 5 | Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover the Dutch oven and reduce the heat to very low. Allow it to simmer for 3 to 4 hours, or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking. |
| 6 | Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, serve the Cacoila hot, alongside your choice of pasta, rice, or boiled white potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and savor every bite of this flavorful dish. |
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 677.8
- Fat Content: 46.7g
- Saturated Fat Content: 19.5g
- Cholesterol Content: 159.6mg
- Sodium Content: 451.4mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 9.2g
- Fiber Content: 1.4g
- Sugar Content: 4g
- Protein Content: 42.6g
Keywords:
Meat, Portuguese, European, Very Low Carbs, Savory, Stove Top, Easy
Tips:
- For extra tenderness, consider marinating the meat for longer than overnight.
- Use a good quality red table wine for the sauce to enhance the depth of flavor.
- Adjust the level of crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice tolerance.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, allowing the flavors to further develop.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Accompany with a glass of Portuguese red wine for an authentic dining experience.
Enjoy Your Culinary Adventure:
Embark on a journey to Portugal’s culinary landscape with this tantalizing Cacoila recipe. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether prepared for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish promises to delight your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant streets of Lisbon. Gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and savor every moment of this gastronomic adventure! 🍲🇵🇹
