Pairing: Hearty Stews and Braised Dishes

Hearty stews and braised dishes are the epitome of comfort food, offering rich, deeply flavored broths and tender meat that has been slow-cooked to perfection. These dishes often include root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, along with savory herbs that create layers of flavor. The long cooking process ensures that the meat becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the stock and spices. Hearty stews and braises pair beautifully with bold, full-bodied wines that have enough structure and acidity to cut through the richness and complement the deep flavors of the dish​.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • Beef or lamb (2 lbs): Provides the base protein, becoming tender through slow cooking.
  • Carrots and potatoes (2 cups each): Add texture and sweetness, helping to thicken the broth.
  • Red wine (1 cup): Used to enhance the richness of the broth, contributing acidity and depth.
  • Beef or vegetable stock (4 cups): Forms the liquid base for slow cooking, essential for creating a flavorful stew.
  • Garlic and onions (2 cloves, 1 large): Aromatics that enhance the savory depth of the dish​.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meat: Season the beef or lamb with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, sear the meat in a bit of olive oil until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the onions and garlic to the pot, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Add the liquids: Deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping up the browned bits. Add the stock and return the meat to the pot.
  4. Slow cook: Add the carrots, potatoes, and any additional seasonings or herbs like thyme or rosemary. Cover and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded.

Serve With

Syrah/Shiraz, Malbec

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Syrah/Shiraz

Also known as Shiraz in some regions, is a full-bodied red wine known for its deep color, rich flavor profile, and versatility.

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Malbec

Malbec is a robust and full-bodied red wine known for its deep purple color and rich flavors. Originating from the Bordeaux region of France, Malbec found its true home in Argentina, where it thrives and produces some of the world's finest examples.

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