As the weather cools down and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the dinner table to enjoy a warm, comforting meal. Braising is a cooking technique that’s perfect for cozy evenings in – it involves cooking tougher cuts of meat or vegetables slowly over low heat, resulting in tender, fall-apart flavors. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 savory braising recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic beef stew to bold and spicy eggplant, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Red Wine Braised Short Ribs
Tender short ribs slow-cooked in a rich red wine sauce, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add sliced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Add garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Garlic Butter Braised Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful recipe, perfect for a cozy night in. Tender chicken thighs are slow-cooked in a creamy garlic butter sauce that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add chicken thighs and cook for 5 minutes, until browned on both sides.
5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover the pot or skillet and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asian-Style Braised Pork Belly
Experience the rich flavors of Asia with this tender and aromatic braised pork belly dish. Slow-cooked to perfection, this recipe combines the savory notes of soy sauce, the sweetness of sugar, and the spice of ginger for a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 star anise pod
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 cup Chinese cooking wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 cups pork or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the pork belly pieces, then set aside.
3. Add soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick to the pot. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the Chinese cooking wine and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until pork is tender.
5. Serve the braised pork belly with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Beer-Braised Beef Stew
Beer-Braised Beef Stew Recipe
A hearty, comforting stew that’s perfect for a cold winter night, this Beer-Braised Beef Stew simmers tender beef and vegetables in a rich, malty beer broth.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup dark beer (such as porter or stout)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
- Add the onion to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, broth, beer, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Return beef to pot and bring to a boil.
- Cover and transfer to the oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender. Serve hot.
Cooking Time:
2-3 hours at 300°F (150°C)
Balsamic Braised Brussels Sprouts
Elevate this humble vegetable with a rich and tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for accompanying your favorite protein or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet in a single layer, cut side down. Cook for 5 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and braise for 15-20 minutes or until the sprouts are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Braised Lamb Shanks
This Moroccan-inspired braising recipe brings together the rich flavors of lamb, aromatics, and spices to create a tender and juicy dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear lamb shanks until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
4. Add onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and browned lamb shanks to the pot. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until tender and falling off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Tomato-Braised White Beans with Herbs
Elevate your bean game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a side to pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy), soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked white beans, crushed tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Coconut Milk Braised Curry Chicken
Experience the rich flavors of India with this creamy and aromatic curry chicken dish. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, and can be served over rice or with naan bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
6. Cover and braise for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Braised Cabbage with Bacon and Apples
A sweet and savory twist on traditional braised cabbage, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the smoky richness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2-3 apples (any variety), peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage to the pan and cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the cooked bacon, apples, and chicken broth to the pan. Stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Soy-Ginger Braised Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavors of soy sauce and ginger to create a tender and aromatic salmon dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this braised salmon is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, and garlic.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush the soy-ginger mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the olive oil to the dish.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and braise for 20-25 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Remove the foil and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Braised Beef Ragu with Pappardelle
A hearty and comforting Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This slow-cooked ragu is rich, flavorful, and sure to satisfy your pasta cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz pappardelle pasta
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown beef cubes, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add wine, broth, tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return browned beef to pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Cook pappardelle according to package instructions. Serve with braised beef ragu.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Lemon and Herb Braised Artichokes
This recipe brings together the bright flavors of lemon and herbs to elevate the humble artichoke to a new level. A perfect side dish or addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichokes
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Trim the artichoke stems and remove any tough or woody leaves.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the artichokes to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
5. Place the artichokes in a single layer in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Braze for 30-40 minutes or until the leaves are tender and easily removable from the stem.
7. Remove foil and continue braising for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the artichokes are caramelized to your liking.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Braised Turkey Legs with Mushroom Gravy
This classic comfort food dish is perfect for a chilly winter’s night. Tender turkey legs fall-off-the-bone tender, smothered in a rich and savory mushroom gravy.
Ingredients:
– 2 turkey legs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season turkey legs with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
3. Sear turkey legs in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
4. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic, mushrooms, chicken broth, and red wine (if using). Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until turkey legs are tender and falling off the bone.
7. Remove from heat and stir in flour to thicken the gravy.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Maple-Braised Root Vegetables
A sweet and savory twist on traditional braised vegetables, this recipe brings together the natural sweetness of maple syrup with the earthy flavors of root veggies. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, carrots, parsnips, maple syrup, and broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 30-40 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Braised Duck Legs with Red Wine Sauce
A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold winter evening, this recipe slow-cooks duck legs in rich red wine sauce until tender and fall-apart.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck legs (about 2 lbs)
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the duck legs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the duck legs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the duck legs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spicy Braised Eggplant with Chickpeas
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of eggplant with the spicy kick of harissa and the creaminess of chickpeas. Perfect as a side dish or main course, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon harissa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the eggplant and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Add the garlic, harissa, chickpeas, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Braised Fennel with Parmesan
This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of fennel, elevated by the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for meats or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bulbs of fennel, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the fennel pieces and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the chicken broth, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and braise for 20-25 minutes, or until the fennel is tender.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orange-Braised Carrots with Thyme
Orange-Braised Carrots with Thyme
Sweet and tangy, these carrots are a perfect side dish for your next meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented (juice reserved)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped carrots and cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add the orange segments, garlic, honey, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour in the reserved orange juice and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and braise the carrots for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Braised Lentils with Smoked Sausage
This comforting dish combines the rich flavors of smoked sausage with the earthy goodness of lentils, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is easy to prepare and simmers away, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return sausage to the pot. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rosemary Braised Potatoes with Garlic
Elevate your potato game with this aromatic and flavorful side dish, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a comforting main course.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary until well coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the potato mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a ceramic braiser.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these savory braising recipes perfect for a comforting evening. From classic short ribs to international-inspired dishes like Asian-style pork belly and Moroccan lamb shanks, there’s something for every taste. Beer-braised beef stew, coconut milk curry chicken, and balsamic-glazed Brussels sprouts add a rich depth of flavor. Hearty options include braised cabbage with bacon and apples, and lentils with smoked sausage. For a lighter twist, try lemony artichokes or orange-glazed carrots. With these recipes, you’ll be all set for a deliciously cozy night in.