Slow-Cooked Beef with Cassava and Coconut Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender slow-cooked beef simmered in a rich coconut sauce served with traditional cassava, showcasing the flavors of Brazil’s tropical regions. This brazilian-inspired beef ready in about 150 minutes blends pounds beef chuck roast, coconut milk, medium onion, finely chopped into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 520 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 130 min Serves 4 Brazilian cuisine 520 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 2 pounds beef chuck roast and season generously with 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Cut into 2-inch cubes.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons dendê oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the 2 pounds beef cubes in batches, browning each side for 3-4 minutes until a deep crust forms; transfer browned beef to a plate.
  3. Step 3: In the same pot, add 1 medium finely chopped onion and 4 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Return the beef to the pot, add 2 cups water and 1 cup coconut milk. Bring to a simmer, cover partially, and reduce heat to low. Cook gently for 2 hours until beef is tender.
  5. Step 5: While beef cooks, place 1 pound peeled cassava pieces in a pot of boiling salted water, cooking for 20 minutes until soft when pierced with a fork; drain.
  6. Step 6: Stir 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro into the beef mixture, then serve the tender beef and coconut sauce over the warm cassava.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Slow-Cooked Beef with Cassava and Coconut Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 150 minutes (20 min prep + 130 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Slow-Cooked Beef with Cassava and Coconut Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Slow-Cooked Beef with Cassava and Coconut Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Slow-Cooked Beef with Cassava and Coconut Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Slow-Cooked Beef with Cassava and Coconut Sauce?

Brazilian beef like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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