Cozido à Portuguesa
Join family and friends for a comforting bowl of Cozido à Portuguesa, a stew that warms both heart and soul.
On a sunny Sunday afternoon at my favorite tasca in Lisbon, the kitchen is alive with the sounds of bubbling pots and laughter. Cozido à Portuguesa isn’t just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table with family and friends. This hearty stew, packed with a variety of meats and seasonal vegetables, is made in big batches, perfect for sharing. I can’t help but smile as I think of the stories and memories this dish brings to life, passed down through generations, each cook adding their own special twist.
The magic of Cozido à Portuguesa lies in its straightforwardness and the love poured into its ingredients. As the meats tenderize and the veggies soften, they blend together beautifully, creating a comforting stew that warms you from the inside out. Different families have their own variations, whether it’s adding extra greens or a favorite type of sausage, but the core remains the same: a nourishing bowl of goodness that brings warmth and joy, enjoyed best in the company of those you hold dear.
Ingredients · 4 servings
- 600 g beef (brisket or chuck)
- 300 g pork (shoulder or belly)
- 200 g chorizo sausage
- 200 g morcela (blood sausage)
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 small cabbage, cut into wedges
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 liters water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- In a large pot, combine the beef, pork, and chorizo. Add the water and bring to a boil.
- Skim off any foam that rises to the surface, then add the onion, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, and cabbage to the pot, along with more salt and pepper to taste.
- Continue to cook for another 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and meats are cooked through.
- Serve hot, ensuring each bowl has a mix of meats and vegetables.