Tuga Pops − Thursday, December 14, 2017, 9 Years ago in Soup Recipes
5 out of 5 with 97 ratings

Azorean Beef Stew | Ultimate Molha do Pico Recipe

Make the most tender Azorean beef stew at home. This traditional Portuguese Molha de Carne features rich spices and slow-cooked perfection.
3 h 5 servings Easy Prep time 15 min Cooking Time 45 min

You will love this Azorean Beef Stew | Ultimate Molha do Pico Recipe

Get ready for the most incredible Molha do Pico you will ever taste! This Azorean beef stew delivers phenomenal flavors using beautifully simple ingredients. Whether you need pressure cooker Azorean beef stew Molha methods or Azorean beef stew clay pot alternatives, we have you covered. Make this authentic Molha do Pico slow cooker masterpiece tonight for a breathtakingly delicious Portuguese feast!


Ingredients

2 lbs (900 g) chuck beef, cut into bite-size cubes6 garlic cloves, chopped1 tablespoon (15 ml) paprikaSalt and pepper to taste1/2 pound (225 g) potatoes2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil2 onions, chopped4 garlic cloves1 tablespoon (15 ml) tomato paste1 cup (240 ml) white wine1 bay leaf1 teaspoon (5 ml) cumin1 cinnamon stickCarrots, chopped (optional)2 cups (470 ml) beef broth

Equipment:

Large bowlSauté panPressure cooker

With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!

Directions

  1. Toss the meat, garlic, paprika, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste in a large bowl, combine well and let rest in the refrigerator for a couple of hours.
  2. Sauté the onions and other garlic cloves in a pan on medium heat with the rest of the olive oil until browned.
  3. Add the tomato paste and cook another minute or so, then add the wine, stir it well.
  4. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes.
  5. Add the meat, potatoes and carrots to the pressure cooker.
  6. Add the onion, garlic, tomato and wine mixture on top, pour in the broth, add the bay leaf, cumin, and cinnamon stick and stir it all together.
  7. Close up the pressure cooker and cook on high heat for 30 minutes.
  8. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Serve while hot.


Recipe Tips

For optimal flavor, sear the beef cubes in batches rather than overcrowding the pan. This ensures a better browning and caramelization, enhancing the stew's depth of flavor.
When adding the potatoes, consider cutting them into larger chunks to prevent them from disintegrating during the long cooking process. This will help maintain their texture in the stew.
Avoid using a high-acid white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, as it can overpower the other flavors. Instead, choose a smoother white wine like Chardonnay or a dry Riesling for a more balanced taste.
Adapted from a Recipe by: easyportugueserecipes.com

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories
520 kcal
Fat
24 g
Carbs
18 g
Protein
54 g

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use as a substitute for chuck beef in this stew?

You can substitute chuck beef with sirloin or brisket, but be aware that the texture and flavor may differ slightly. If you want a leaner option, consider using round beef cuts.

How should I store leftovers of this Azorean Beef Stew?

Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What can I do if the stew is too salty?

If the stew turns out too salty, you can add a peeled potato to the pot while it's simmering, which will absorb some of the excess salt. Alternatively, you can add more beef broth or water to dilute the saltiness, but this may alter the flavor a bit.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Wine

Portuguese: Alentejo Red Blend - This wine, with its rich fruit flavors and hints of spice, complements the hearty and savory elements of the beef stew beautifully.

General: Cabernet Sauvignon - A classic choice, this full-bodied red wine provides robust tannins and dark fruit notes that enhance the flavors of the stew.

Beer

Portuguese: Super Bock - This popular Portuguese lager offers a crisp and refreshing profile that balances the richness of the beef stew.

General: Amber Ale - The caramel and malt flavors in an amber ale provide a nice contrast to the spices and savoriness of the dish.

Other Beverages

Dark Roast Coffee: A cup of dark roast coffee enhances the meal's flavors with its bold, rich profile, making it a perfect finishing touch.

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Reviews (13) Add a review

Fred
Fred
According to easyportugueserecipes.com, this isn't Carne Guisada Açoriana, but is
Molha de Pico.
4 Weeks ago, Sunday, May 17, 2026

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops
Sorry, I messed it up, I have fixed the recipe.
3 Weeks ago, Sunday, May 24, 2026

Maria
Maria
Hi Eddie, if you don't have a pressure cooker, is there another way to make this receipe?
4 Years ago, Thursday, September 15, 2022

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops
Yes, you can make it in a regular pan or in a slow cooker.
4 Years ago, Thursday, September 15, 2022

Carlos
Carlos
Not enough liquid for pressure cooker
Food got stuck and burnt
4 Years ago, Wednesday, May 4, 2022

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops

Sorry to hear that Carlos, I will update the recipe.

4 Years ago, Wednesday, May 4, 2022

terry
terry
Could you do the whole process and let it cook in a crockpot?
4 Years ago, Sunday, May 1, 2022

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops

Yes, but sear the beef before hand then cook it in the crockpot with everything for 7 to 8 hours on low.

4 Years ago, Sunday, May 1, 2022

George
George
Not sure why this is 2 hr 55 min prep time. I want to make this in my Instant pot.
4 Years ago, Tuesday, March 15, 2022

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops
Because you let it marinade for 2 hours George, I will update the recipe.
4 Years ago, Tuesday, March 15, 2022

tina
tina
Hi, this looks delicious but I see carrots on the picture and not on the list of ingredients????
4 Years ago, Tuesday, March 8, 2022

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops
Tina, that part you can do it to taste, some people don't like carrots in their stews, some people do.
4 Years ago, Tuesday, March 8, 2022

Nicole
Nicole
Can we use a Dutch oven instead of a pressure cooker? thank you ☺️
5 Years ago, Monday, November 29, 2021

Tuga Pops
Tuga Pops
Hi Nicole, yes you can, but it will take much longer.
5 Years ago, Monday, November 29, 2021

Tuga Pops

Joined 11 Years ago n/a
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