Cozy nights are just around the corner, and what better way to warm up than with a hearty, comforting braise? The slow-cooked, richly flavored dishes that result from this cooking method are sure to become new favorites in your household. In this collection of 18 braising recipes, we’ve gathered some of the most delicious and satisfying options for you to try.
From classic beef bourguignon to Asian-inspired pork shoulder, these recipes showcase the versatility and flexibility of braising. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for a new way to cook your favorite ingredients, there’s something here for everyone.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of braising and explore the various techniques, ingredients, and flavor combinations that make these dishes so special.
Red Wine Braised Short Ribs
Elevate a hearty meal with this rich and flavorful short ribs recipe, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in. The slow-cooked short ribs fall-off-the-bone tender, while the red wine sauce adds a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon 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, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot and cover with a lid.
7. Transfer to preheated oven and braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Classic Beef Bourguignon
Classic Beef Bourguignon: A Hearty French Stew
This iconic dish from France is a rich and flavorful stew that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in with family and friends. With its tender beef, mushrooms, and red wine, this classic recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (such as button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Merlot)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 sprig fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot, cover, and simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Braised Lamb Shanks with Rosemary
Braised Lamb Shanks with Rosemary: A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shanks on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium, add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add rosemary, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return lamb shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
7. Remove from oven and let rest before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Slow-Cooked Braised Pork Belly
This recipe yields tender, flavorful pork belly that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. With a rich and unctuous sauce, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. Season pork belly with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook onion until caramelized. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Transfer pork belly to the slow cooker. Top with cooked onion mixture, chicken broth, red wine, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Beer-Braised Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this easy and impressive recipe for Beer-Braised Chicken Thighs. The rich flavors of beer, onions, and spices meld together to create a tender and juicy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup dark beer (such as stout or porter)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and add sliced onion to the pot. Cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot and cook for 1 minute.
6. Pour in the beer and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
7. Return the chicken thighs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
8. Braise for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Braised Beef Brisket with Caramelized Onions
Slow-cooked beef brisket infused with rich flavors and tender texture, paired with sweet and caramelized onions. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the brisket with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for 2-3 minutes on each side, then remove from pot.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add sliced onions and cook until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Add garlic, red wine, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the brisket to the pot; cover with a lid.
7. Braise in the oven for 3-4 hours or until tender.
8. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Asian-Style Braised Pork Shoulder
This recipe yields a tender and aromatic pork shoulder dish, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. The combination of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger creates a rich and savory braising liquid that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder, boneless
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup sake or dry white wine (optional)
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the pork shoulder, onion, chicken broth, and sake (if using). Cover the pot with a lid.
4. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Braised Chicken with Mushrooms and White Wine
This classic French-inspired dish is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for a cozy evening at home. Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich white wine come together to create a mouthwatering braising liquid that’s simply divine.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from pot and set aside. Reduce heat to medium, then add mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add white wine and chicken broth to pot. Stir to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from bottom of pot.
5. Return chicken to pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 30-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Braised Cabbage with Bacon and Apples
This sweet and savory recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy flavor of cabbage, all wrapped up in a rich bacon broth. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for sausages or pork chops.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, apples, and chicken broth to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let braise for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Braised Duck Legs with Orange Glaze
Braised Duck Legs with Orange Glaze: A rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. This recipe combines the tender fall-off-the-bone texture of braised duck legs with the bright, citrusy flavor of orange glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Orange glaze ingredients: 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown duck legs on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove duck from pot and set aside. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, red wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return duck legs to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
6. Cover pot and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.
7. Meanwhile, whisk together orange glaze ingredients in a small bowl.
8. Remove pot from oven and brush duck legs with orange glaze.
9. Return pot to oven and braise for an additional 15 minutes or until glaze is caramelized.
10. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Braised Turkey Drumsticks in Gravy
Braised Turkey Drumsticks in Gravy Recipe Summary:
Tender and flavorful turkey drumsticks smothered in a rich brown gravy, perfect as a main course or appetizer for any occasion. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be served hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey drumsticks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, turkey drumsticks, chicken broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Strain gravy and discard solids.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Braised Oxtail with Root Vegetables
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the rich flavor of oxtail with the natural sweetness of root vegetables, resulting in a tender and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs oxtail, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown oxtail pieces, then set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, parsnips, and celery to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add browned oxtail back into the pot, along with beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme.
5. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until oxtail is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Braised Rabbit with Mustard Sauce
This classic French dish is a testament to the tenderizing power of slow-cooked rabbit, paired with a tangy and creamy mustard sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 rabbit (about 2 lbs), cut into 8 pieces (4 legs, 2 thighs, 2 arms)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown rabbit pieces, then set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, mustard, and honey. Bring to a simmer.
3. Return rabbit to the pot, cover, and transfer to the oven. Braise at 300°F (150°C) for 1 hour 30 minutes or until tender.
4. Remove from the oven; season with salt and pepper. Serve with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Braised Veal Osso Buco
Osso buco, a traditional Italian braising dish, is perfect for special occasions or cozy winter nights. This recipe transforms tender veal shanks into fall-off-the-bone goodness, infused with aromatic flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal shanks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 carrots, peeled and chopped (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season veal shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat; sear veal until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Return veal shanks to the pot; cover with lid or foil.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until meat is tender.
8. Garnish with chopped carrots and parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Braised Leeks with Parmesan Cream
Braised Leeks with Parmesan Cream: A rich and creamy side dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, cleaned and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add leeks and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the leeks and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until leeks are tender and creamy sauce has thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Braised Fennel with Garlic and Herbs
Savor the sweetness of caramelized fennel paired with pungent garlic and fragrant herbs in this effortless side dish. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large fennel bulbs, sliced into 1/4-inch thick wedges
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced fennel and cook until slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, butter, parsley, and thyme to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and braise for 20-25 minutes or until the fennel is tender and caramelized.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Braised Eggplant with Tomatoes and Basil
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a flavorful and aromatic delight, perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish. Tender eggplant, rich tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together in a harmonious blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add eggplant slices in batches, cooking until browned on both sides (about 5 minutes per side). Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Arrange cooked eggplant slices in a baking dish, overlapping if necessary. Spoon tomato sauce over the eggplant.
7. Sprinkle chopped basil and Parmesan cheese (if using) on top.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the eggplant is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Braised Lentils with Smoked Sausage
This hearty, comforting dish combines the rich flavor of smoked sausage with the comforting warmth of braised lentils. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water/broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Add sausage, onion, garlic, and thyme to the pot. Cook for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender and sausage is cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Summary
Cozy up on a chilly night with these 18 hearty braising recipes. From classic Beef Bourguignon to Beer-Braised Chicken Thighs and Braised Pork Belly, there’s something for everyone. These comforting dishes are perfect for slow-cooking in the oven or on the stovetop. Discover how red wine, beer, and stock enhance the rich flavors of short ribs, lamb shanks, beef brisket, and more. With a range of global influences from Asian-style pork shoulder to Italian-inspired osso buco, there’s never been a better excuse to gather ’round the table with friends and family.
