Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey into the heart of Louisiana's culinary tradition with Creole Bouilli, a rustic beef stew that promises to transport your taste buds straight to the bayous! This slow-cooked marvel is more than just a meal - it's a rich, flavor-packed experience that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of comfort and taste. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, this recipe will unlock the secrets of authentic Cajun cooking and leave your family begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef roast
- 4 cups water
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the beef roast by trimming any excess fat and cutting it into large, roughly 2-inch chunks.
- Season the beef chunks generously with salt and black pepper, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef chunks until they develop a rich, brown crust on all sides, which helps develop deep flavor and locks in moisture.
- Remove the browned beef and set aside temporarily.
- In the same pot, add quartered onions, chopped carrots, celery, and minced garlic, sautéing until the vegetables begin to soften and become fragrant.
- Return the beef to the pot and add water, ensuring the meat is mostly covered.
- Add the bay leaf and bring the liquid to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer slowly for approximately 2 hours, or until the beef becomes extremely tender and can be easily pulled apart.
- Periodically check the liquid level and add more water if needed to prevent burning.
- Once meat is tender, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if required.
- Remove bay leaf before serving the bouilli hot, ideally over rice or with crusty bread.
Tips
- Choose the right cut: For the most tender results, opt for a well-marbled beef roast like chuck or brisket that can withstand long, slow cooking.
- Searing is key: Take your time browning the meat. Those golden-brown edges develop incredible depth of flavor that will make your bouilli truly exceptional.
- Low and slow is the golden rule: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. The magic of this dish happens during the slow, gentle simmer that breaks down tough meat fibers.
- Don't skip the vegetable base: The combination of onions, carrots, celery, and garlic creates a flavor foundation that elevates the entire dish.
- Make ahead friendly: Creole Bouilli tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance and reheating for an even more developed flavor profile.
- Serving suggestions: Serve over fluffy white rice, with crusty French bread, or alongside creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious cooking liquid.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 255kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
