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Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef

Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef

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Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef is a comforting and flavorful dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the Azores. This hearty stew features tender chunks of beef braised to perfection with a medley of aromatic spices, vibrant red peppers, and a tangy apple vinegar sauce. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this dish promises to envelop your table in warmth and delight. With minimal hands-on preparation and the magic of slow cooking, Caçoila transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 1/2 pounds chuck roast (cut into 2- to 3-inch chunks)
  • 2 tablespoons crushed red peppers
  • 1 large onion (sliced)
  • 1 bunch parsley (coarsely chopped)
  • 6 to 8 cloves garlic (smashed and peeled)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 cups red apple vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter or lard

Instructions

  1. Marinate the beef: Coat chunks with crushed red pepper in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
  2. Prepare the Dutch oven: Layer onion slices, parsley, garlic, and bay leaves. Place allspice berries and cloves in cheesecloth or a tea ball and add to the pot. If desired, season beef with salt before placing it on top of vegetables. Dot with butter or lard.
  3. Mix sauce: In a bowl, combine apple vinegar, tomato paste, and cinnamon. Pour over beef.
  4. Cook: Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce to low for a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 3 to 3½ hours until beef is very tender, turning occasionally.
  5. Serve: Remove bay leaves and spice pouch before serving alongside boiled potatoes, roasted red peppers, or cooked greens.

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