Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef

Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This flavorful beef stew combines tender pieces of meat with vibrant red peppers and aromatic spices, all simmered together in a tangy apple vinegar sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe stands out for its rich flavors and simplicity, making it a must-try for stewed beef lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can create a delicious meal.
• Rich Flavors: Slow-cooked beef combined with red apple vinegar and spices creates a depth of flavor that will impress everyone.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with boiled potatoes, roasted red peppers, or cooked greens to customize each plate.
• Ideal for Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying later in the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef, gather your kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cheesecloth or tea ball
• Measuring cups
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking, it distributes heat evenly and retains moisture for tender meat.
• Cheesecloth or tea ball: Perfect for holding spices like allspice and cloves while allowing their flavors to infuse into the stew without leaving bits behind.

Ingredients

To make Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef, gather the following ingredients:

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
• 2 cups hearty red table apple vinegar
• 2 tablespoons 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: Marinate the Beef

In a large bowl, coat the beef with crushed red pepper. Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight. This step enhances the flavor of the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Dutch Oven

About 4 hours before serving, scatter onion slices, parsley, garlic, and bay leaves in the bottom of your Dutch oven.

Step 3: Add Spices

Place allspice berries and cloves in cheesecloth or a tea ball. Toss them into the Dutch oven. If desired, season the beef with kosher salt before placing it on top of the aromatics. Dot with unsalted butter or lard.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

In a measuring glass or bowl, mix together apple vinegar, tomato paste, and ground cinnamon. Pour this mixture over the beef in the Dutch oven.

Step 5: Cook Slowly

Bring everything to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low for a gentle simmer. Cover and cook until meat is very tender—about 3 to 3.5 hours. Turn pieces occasionally for even cooking.

Step 6: Final Touches

Remove bay leaves and spice pouch from the pot. Serve your caçoila warm with optional sides like boiled white potatoes, roasted red peppers, and cooked greens for a complete meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef

Caçoila, or Portuguese stewed beef, is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Boiled White Potatoes

• Boiled white potatoes are a classic side that absorbs the rich flavors of the stew. Simply boil until tender and serve alongside.

Accompanied by Roasted Red Peppers

• Roasted red peppers add a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the savory beef. Roast them in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil for an easy side.

Served with Cooked Greens

• Pairing caçoila with cooked greens such as kale or spinach adds freshness and balance to the meal. Sauté them lightly with garlic for extra flavor.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serving caçoila over rice allows you to soak up all the delicious sauce. Choose fluffy white or brown rice for a delightful base.

As a Sandwich Filling

• Transform leftover caçoila into sandwiches! Use crusty bread and top with fresh herbs for a tasty lunch option.

In Tacos or Wraps

• For a fun twist, use caçoila as a filling for tacos or wraps. Add your favorite toppings like avocado and salsa for added freshness.

How to Perfect Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef

To achieve the best results when making caçoila, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Overnight: Allowing the beef to marinate overnight helps enhance its flavor and tenderness.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality beef to ensure a rich taste in your final dish.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of crushed red pepper based on your spice preference.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your cooking time; tender meat is key for this dish. Aim for 3 to 3 1/2 hours of gentle simmering.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Add carrots or celery to the stew for added texture and nutrition.

• Let it Rest: After cooking, let the caçoila rest before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even further.

Best Side Dishes for Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef

When enjoying caçoila, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
2. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with fresh herbs adds a refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Steamed broccoli provides color and nutrients while keeping things light.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with savory dishes like caçoila; grill or boil for best results.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew.
6. Polenta: Creamy polenta offers a comforting base that complements the robust flavors of caçoila.
7. Quinoa Pilaf: A quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs can provide an earthy taste that pairs beautifully.
8. Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus adds sophistication and texture, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the beef overnight can lead to less flavorful meat. Allow the crushed red peppers to infuse the beef with flavor by refrigerating it overnight.

• Neglecting Low Heat: Cooking at too high a temperature can make the beef tough. Always simmer gently for several hours to ensure tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat.

• Ignoring Liquid Levels: Failing to monitor the sauce can result in either a dry dish or an overly watery stew. Keep an eye on the liquid and adjust as necessary for your desired consistency.

• Overseasoning with Salt: Adding too much salt can overwhelm the dish’s natural flavors. Taste as you go and season lightly, allowing other ingredients to shine through.

• Forgetting Optional Ingredients: Leaving out optional sides like boiled potatoes or roasted peppers misses out on enhancing your meal’s overall appeal. Consider adding these for added texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 30-40 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, checking frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, adding a little water if it’s too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef.

How do I achieve the best flavor in Caçoila?

To achieve maximum flavor in Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef, marinate the meat overnight with spices. This enhances its taste and tenderness significantly.

Can I use different cuts of beef for this recipe?

Yes! While chuck roast is traditional, you can substitute other cuts like brisket or round. Just ensure they are suitable for slow cooking.

Is it possible to make Caçoila in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, making Caçoila a day ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it properly and reheat when ready to serve.

What should I serve with Caçoila?

Caçoila pairs well with boiled potatoes, roasted red peppers, or cooked greens. Feel free to get creative with your side dishes!

Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! You can adjust spice levels or add vegetables according to your preference. Customize it further with different herbs or sides based on what you enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef is not just a comforting meal; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the rich flavors that come from slow cooking!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Caçoila | Portuguese Stewed Beef is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the essence of traditional Portuguese cuisine to your dining table. This hearty stew features tender chunks of beef slow-cooked with aromatic spices and vibrant red peppers, all simmered in a tangy apple vinegar sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers rich flavors that develop beautifully over time. Whether served with boiled potatoes, roasted red peppers, or cooked greens, Caçoila is sure to impress everyone at your table.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 (chopped)
• 6 to 8 cloves garlic (smashed)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice berries
• 4 whole cloves
• Salt (to taste)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups apple vinegar
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Marinate the beef overnight with crushed red pepper in a large bowl.
2. In a Dutch oven, layer onion slices, parsley, garlic, and bay leaves at the bottom.
3. Place allspice berries and cloves in cheesecloth; add them to the pot. Season beef with salt before placing it atop the aromatics.
4. Mix apple vinegar, tomato paste, and cinnamon; pour over the beef.
5. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer for about 3 to 3.5 hours until meat is tender.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 210 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Portuguese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg