Braising Tips & Tricks
March 15, 2023 5 Minute Read
When cooking any cut of meat, it’s important to try a little tenderness. A juicy, tender cut of meat brings unmatched flavor to the dinner table. But it’s not always easy. If you’re not careful in the kitchen, you can overcook or dry out your dish. That’s why a great way to keep your dish delicious is to braise when cooking.
What is Braising?
Braising is the process of cooking your meat (and greens, beans, etc.) in liquid. Specifically, it’s browning at a high heat level then letting it simmer in a covered pot in a cooking liquid of your choice. This intermingling of the food being cooked and the liquid used for braising keeps your dish tender with little effort involved. Braising is different than stewing, since braising usually involves less liquid and larger cuts of meat.
The Best Ways to Braise
When cooking any cut of meat, it’s important to try a little tenderness. A juicy, tender cut of meat brings unmatched flavor to the dinner table. But it’s not always easy. If you’re not careful in the kitchen, you can overcook or dry out your dish. That’s why a great way to keep your dish delicious is to braise when cooking.
When you’re ready to start braising, keep the following in mind:
- Select a fatty, tough cut. Meat with plenty of fat will benefit from a longer cooking time. Plus, braising will break down the fat into the liquid itself, adding to the flavor. Some good braising cuts are pork shoulder, short ribs and chicken thighs.
- Use the right size pot. Leave enough room for your cut of meat, plus any vegetables and liquid used. But make sure it’s cozy enough for the flavors to mingle well.
- Sear your meat to a nice brown. This will develop and lock in flavor before braising. Remove the meat after searing and fill the pan with your liquid. Wine, broth, milk and other flavorful liquids work best (depending on your cut and other ingredients).
- Put a lid on it and start braising. Your cook time will vary depending on the cut, but low and slow temps are usually best. While stovetop cooking works fine, braising in the oven leads to a more even heat distribution and is recommended.
Great Recipes for Braising
Check out a few delicious braising recipe ideas to try in your kitchen.