Coxão duro – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Brazil Servings: Serves 4
Brazil Servings: Serves 4Coxão duro, a traditional Brazilian beef dish, is celebrated for its rich, hearty flavors and satisfying texture. Derived from the tougher cuts of beef, ‘coxão duro’ translates to ‘hard thigh,’ a nod to its source from the hindquarters of the cow. Popular in the culinary tapestry of Brazil, this meat dish is often slow-cooked to achieve tenderness and infused with the savory, herb-infused flavors of the region, offering a delectable taste of Brazilian home cooking.
Ingredients
- beef round roast (coxão duro) – 2 lbs / 900 g
- olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- large onion, finely chopped – 1
- garlic cloves, minced – 3
- bay leaves – 2
- beef broth – 2 cups / 480 ml
- red wine – 1 cup / 240 ml
- carrots, sliced – 2
- potatoes, peeled and quartered – 3
- fresh parsley, chopped – 2 tbsp / 8 g
- salt and pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef round roast on all sides until browned.
- Remove the beef and set aside. In the same pot, add onions and garlic, sauté until onions are translucent.
- Return the beef to the pot, add bay leaves, beef broth, and red wine. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours or until beef is tender.
- Add carrots and potatoes to the pot, cook for an additional 30 minutes until vegetables are soft.
- Remove bay leaves, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Substitutions
- beef broth -> vegetable broth
- red wine -> grape juice with a splash of vinegar
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Marinate the beef overnight in red wine and spices for deeper flavor infusion.
- Add a touch of smoked paprika for additional smokiness.
- Incorporate a teaspoon of tomato paste for added richness.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
