Braised meat is a cooking method where meat is first seared at high heat and then slow-cooked in a flavorful liquid, typically in a covered pot. This process allows the meat to become tender, absorbing all the flavors from the liquid and seasonings. Ready to give it a try? Here are 20 mouthwatering braised meat dishes to add to your meal plan.
Beef Burgundy
Beef Burgundy is a dish that brings together the best of savory flavors in a wine-soaked, melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. This French classic uses tender beef, mushrooms, onions, and a hit of garlic to create a symphony of taste. It’s like a cozy embrace from the inside, perfect for a chilly evening.
Chicken In Wine
Imagine tender chicken, its flavors enhanced by the subtle acidity of wine and the earthy richness of vegetables. Chicken in Wine, or Coq au Vin, is a dish that has been simmering in French kitchens for centuries. As the chicken braises, it absorbs the complexity of the wine, garlic, and herbs.
Braised Veal Shanks
When you braise veal shanks, you’re in for a treat. Its natural tenderness, paired with its rich flavor, converts during the slow braising process. Traditionally cooked in Italy, this dish includes vegetables, wine, and broth, with the meat falling off the bone after hours of simmering.
Braised Beef Short Ribs
Braised beef short ribs are a meat lover’s dream. The slow braise allows the connective tissue to break down, giving the ribs a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Often cooked with a mixture of red wine, herbs, and stock, short ribs are perfect for a rich, hearty meal that’ll impress anyone at the dinner table.
Braised Lamb Shanks
For a dish that’s both hearty and sophisticated, braised lamb shanks take the crown. The lamb absorbs the savory, herb-infused braise. This dish often includes ingredients like garlic, rosemary, and red wine, making it the ideal choice for a comforting dinner that feels gourmet.
Braised Pork Belly
If you’re looking for a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth dish, braised pork belly is the answer. When braised, the layers of fat and meat break down, creating a delicious dish. Typically braised in a flavorful mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and spices, the result is a sweet-salty, aromatic dish that satisfies every craving.
Brown Stew Chicken
Brown Stew Chicken brings the taste of the Caribbean right to your plate. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory sauce with a hint of sweetness and a splash of tang. It’s all about those deep, flavorful layers that come from browning the chicken and letting it cook slowly in the vibrant sauce.
Beef Curry
Beef curry is a combination of spices, along with ingredients like onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes. The beef absorbs these flavors as it cooks slowly, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Often finished with coconut milk or yogurt for added richness, this dish is typically served with rice or flatbread.
Pork Ragu
This one is an Italian stew made with slow-cooked pork, often shoulder or belly, that becomes tender and flavorful as it simmers in a savory tomato-based sauce. Pork ragu is traditionally served with pasta, such as pappardelle or rigatoni, to soak up the rich sauce, creating a satisfying, comforting meal.
Braised Venison
Braised venison is a dish that requires patience but rewards you with bold, complex flavors. Venison, being leaner than other meats, can often dry out, but braising it in wine and broth ensures it stays juicy and tender. With herbs like thyme and bay leaves, venison’s gamey flavor shines through.
Braised Pork Adobo
A Filipino classic, braised pork adobo is slow-cooked in a tangy mix of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic. This dish’s combination of acidity and savory depth makes it incredibly satisfying. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors become, which makes it perfect for any occasion.
Kedjenou
Kedjenou is a traditional West African dish that is particularly popular on the Ivory Coast. The dish features chicken (or sometimes other meats) slow-cooked with a variety of vegetables. The key to kedjenou’s deep flavor is the use of aromatic spices cooked in a sealed pot, often clay or Dutch oven, to lock in the moisture.
Carnitas
Carnitas is a Mexican dish featuring pork that’s seasoned with a mix of certain spices like cumin, garlic, and oregano. The pork is typically simmered for hours in its own fat until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth soft. Once cooked, the meat is shredded and sometimes crisped up in a hot pan.
Pork With Sauerkraut
This is one of those dishes that just hits the spot, combining the savory flavor of pork with the tangy, fermented bite of sauerkraut. It’s a classic in German and Eastern European kitchens, and you might find variations with apples, onions, or caraway seeds to kick things up a notch.
Braised Oxtail
When oxtail is braised, the process allows the collagen in the oxtail to break down, resulting in a velvety texture in the broth. It’s a great comfort food, offering plenty of protein and iron, though it can be quite rich, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
Mississippi Pot Roast
This recipe involves slow-cooking a chuck roast with a pack of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, butter, and a few pepperoncini peppers. It’s a one-pot meal that is best for busy nights and is served with mashed potatoes, rice, or buns for a satisfying sandwich.
Pork Osso Buco
Pork Osso Buco is one of the variations of the Italian dish made with braised veal shanks. In this version, tender pork shanks are used instead, offering a slightly different flavor profile. It’s typically paired with risotto, polenta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Braised Beef Brisket
Slow-braised beef brisket is a quintessential American dish that’s perfect for large gatherings. The brisket is braised in a flavorful liquid with a hint of sweetness, which helps break down the meat’s tough fibers. It’s the perfect dish for a family dinner or barbecue feast.
Filipino Oxtail Stew
Filipino oxtail stew, known as kare-kare, combines slow-braised oxtail with peanut sauce and vegetables. The rich, creamy sauce complements the tender meat. This dish is ideal for those looking to try something a bit different yet comforting.
Whiskey Pot Roast
Whiskey pot roast is a savory and hearty dish that combines tender beef with the bold flavors of whiskey. The beef is typically seared to lock in its juices, then slow-cooked with onions, garlic, and herbs. Lastly, the alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a subtle, smoky taste that complements the savory meat.
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