Pot-au-Feu is a classic French dish that epitomizes comfort food, made by slow-cooking various cuts of beef with root vegetables like carrots, leeks, and potatoes in a richly flavored broth. This hearty, rustic stew is perfect for cold-weather meals, filling the kitchen with its aromatic broth and tender meat that melts in your mouth. Traditionally served with mustard, cornichons, and crusty bread, Pot-au-Feu is a warming and nourishing dish that brings together simplicity and elegance, making it ideal for a family meal or a special dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef brisket or chuck roast
- 1 lb beef marrow bones
- 4 carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 4 potatoes, peeled and halved
- 3 leeks, trimmed and cleaned
- 2 turnips, peeled and quartered
- 1 large onion, peeled and studded with 4 cloves
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 6-8 peppercorns
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Dijon mustard and cornichons, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the beef and broth: In a large pot, place the beef, marrow bones, and enough water to cover the meat. Bring to a boil and skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Reduce the heat to low and add the onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt. Cover and simmer gently for 2 hours, skimming occasionally.
- Add the vegetables: After 2 hours, add the carrots, leeks, turnips, and potatoes to the pot. Continue simmering for another 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the beef is easily shredded.
- Season the broth: Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Remove the bay leaf, thyme, and onion with cloves before serving.
- Serve the Pot-au-Feu: Serve the beef and vegetables on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley. Ladle the broth into bowls as a starter, or serve alongside the meat and vegetables. Offer Dijon mustard and cornichons for dipping the meat, along with crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful broth.
Pot-au-Feu is a timeless French dish that delivers comfort and nourishment, perfect for gathering around the table and savoring with loved ones.
