Caçoila, or Portuguese stewed beef, is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. This hearty stew features tender chunks of beef, vibrant red peppers, and aromatic spices, all simmered slowly in a unique red apple vinegar sauce. Perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or cozy weeknight dinners, caçoila stands out with its rich flavors and inviting aroma. The combination of traditional ingredients and slow cooking creates an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of red apple vinegar and spices creates a savory depth that makes every bite memorable.
- Tender Meat: Slow cooking ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy caçoila with boiled potatoes, roasted red peppers, or cooked greens for a complete meal.
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This dish serves 8, making it ideal for family meals or entertaining guests.
Tools and Preparation
Making caçoila requires some essential kitchen tools. These will help you create this delicious dish with ease.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Cheesecloth or tea ball
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: This heavy pot is perfect for slow cooking, allowing even heat distribution.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in your caçoila.
- Cutting board & knife: Efficient chopping of vegetables ensures even cooking times.
Ingredients
Caçoila | Portuguese stewed beef relies on a selection of fresh ingredients that enhance its taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Beef Stew
- One (4 1/2-pound) chuck roast (cut into 2- to 3-inch (5- to 8-cm) chunks)
- 2 tablespoons crushed red peppers (or more to taste)
- 1 large (9 oz) onion (cut into slices)
- 1 bunch parsley (coarsely chopped)
- 6 to 8 cloves garlic (smashed and peeled)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice berries
- 4 whole cloves
- Kosher salt (to taste – optional)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter or lard
For the Sauce
- 2 cups hearty red table apple vinegar
- 2 tablespoons store-bought or homemade tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Sides
- Boiled white potatoes
- Roasted red peppers
- Cooked greens
How to Make Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Begin by coating the beef chunks in crushed red pepper in a large bowl. Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight. This step enhances the flavor.
Step 2: Set Up Your Dutch Oven
About four hours before you plan to serve:
1. Scatter the sliced onions, chopped parsley, smashed garlic cloves, and bay leaves in the bottom of your Dutch oven.
2. Place allspice and cloves in cheesecloth or a tea ball; add it to the Dutch oven.
3. If desired, season the beef with kosher salt before placing it atop the aromatics.
4. Dot the beef with butter or lard.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
In a measuring cup or bowl:
1. Mix together the apple vinegar, tomato paste, and ground cinnamon.
2. Pour this mixture over the beef in the Dutch oven.
Step 4: Cook Slowly
Bring your caçoila mixture to a boil. Then:
1. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
2. Cover and cook for 3 to 3½ hours until meat is very tender.
3. Turn pieces occasionally during cooking for even flavor distribution.
For a thicker sauce:
– Halfway through cooking time, remove the lid to let some liquid evaporate.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once cooked:
1. Remove bay leaves and any cheesecloth pouches.
2. Serve caçoila with optional sides like boiled potatoes, roasted red peppers, or cooked greens.
Enjoy your deliciously comforting caçoila!
How to Serve Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef
Caçoila, or Portuguese stewed beef, is a hearty dish that warms the soul. When serving this delightful stew, consider these tasty options to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Boiled Potatoes
- Boiled white potatoes are a classic accompaniment that soak up the rich flavors of the stew.
Add Roasted Red Peppers
- Roasted red peppers bring a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the savory notes of caçoila beautifully.
Include Cooked Greens
- Serve with cooked greens like collard or kale for a nutritious touch that balances the meal.
Top with Fresh Parsley
- A sprinkle of coarsely chopped parsley adds a fresh burst of color and flavor to each serving.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- Offer crusty bread on the side to help scoop up the tender beef and flavorful sauce.
Accompany with Rice
- Simple white rice is another great option to absorb the delicious juices from caçoila.
How to Perfect Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef
Perfecting your caçoila requires attention to detail and patience. Follow these tips for an outstanding dish every time.
- Marinate Overnight: Allowing the beef to marinate overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Use Quality Meat: Choose a good-quality chuck roast for optimal flavor and texture in your stew.
- Control Heat: Maintain a gentle simmer during cooking to ensure even tenderness without drying out the beef.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook; feel free to adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference.
- Cook with Lid On: Keeping the lid on during cooking helps retain moisture for a juicy stew.
- Let It Rest: Allow the caçoila to rest after cooking; this will deepen the flavors before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef
Serving caçoila is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some excellent side dishes that pair well with this Portuguese delight.
- Garlic Bread
- The buttery garlic flavor complements the richness of caçoila wonderfully.
- Rice Pilaf
- Fluffy rice pilaf provides a light base that contrasts nicely with the heavier stew.
- Mixed Green Salad
- A fresh salad adds crunch and a bright note, making it a refreshing addition to your meal.
- Polenta
- Creamy polenta can be served as a comforting alternative, soaking up the delicious sauce beautifully.
- Crispy Fried Onions
- Adding crispy fried onions gives a crunchy texture that enhances each bite of stewed beef.
- Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted seasonal vegetables add color, nutrients, and depth of flavor alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Caçoila, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Ignoring marination time: Failing to marinate the beef overnight can lead to less flavor. Always allow the beef to absorb the spices for at least 12 hours.
- Overcrowding the pot: Placing too much meat in the Dutch oven can cause uneven cooking. Cook the beef in batches if necessary to ensure thorough braising.
- Skipping aromatics: Neglecting ingredients like garlic and onion will make for a bland dish. Always include fresh aromatics for depth of flavor.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning during cooking can lead to a dish that lacks balance. Always taste and add salt or spices as needed.
- Cooking at too high a temperature: Cooking at too high a heat can toughen the beef. Keep it at a gentle simmer for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Caçoila in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef
- Allow the stew to cool completely before freezing.
- Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Reheating Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef?
Caçoila is a traditional Portuguese dish that features tender chunks of beef braised slowly in a flavorful sauce made with red apple vinegar, tomatoes, and spices.
How long does it take to cook Caçoila?
The total cooking time is approximately 3 to 3.5 hours after initial preparation, ensuring that the beef becomes very tender.
Can I customize Caçoila?
Yes! You can add vegetables like carrots or use different cuts of meat based on your preference. The spices can also be adjusted for more heat or flavor.
Is Caçoila suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep since it stores well in both the fridge and freezer. Simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Final Thoughts
Caçoila | Portuguese stewed beef is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it with potatoes, roasted peppers, or greens, it offers delicious flavors that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust seasonings based on your taste—this dish is sure to become a favorite!
Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef
- Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Caçoila, a beloved Portuguese stewed beef dish, is a warm and hearty meal perfect for gathering friends and family. This flavorful stew features tender chunks of beef simmered slowly in a rich sauce made with robust red apple vinegar, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. The result is a comforting dish that envelops your senses with its inviting aroma and savory taste. Whether served with boiled potatoes, roasted peppers, or greens, caçoila is sure to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 4 1/2-pound 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)
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups red apple vinegar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter or lard
Instructions
- Marinate the beef chunks in crushed red pepper overnight in the refrigerator.
- In a Dutch oven, layer sliced onions, parsley, smashed garlic, and bay leaves.
- Place marinated beef on top and dot with butter or lard.
- Mix apple vinegar with tomato paste and ground cinnamon; pour over beef.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for 3 to 3.5 hours until tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 210 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Portuguese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: For added flavor, allow the beef to marinate longer than overnight. Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper based on your spice preference. Serve with sides like crusty bread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.