Stoofvlees with Chicory and Mushrooms
BelgianBrunch

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

This traditional Belgian stoofvlees combines tender beef braised slowly in dark ale with aromatic vegetables, creating a deeply savory stew perfect for leisurely weekend brunches. The addition of Belgian chicory adds a characteristic slight bitterness that balances the rich beer-infused sauce, while mushrooms contribute an earthy depth. Unlike the more commonly known carbonnade flamande, this version incorporates chicory as a vegetable component rather than just onions, making it ideal for a substantial brunch serving. The beef becomes fork-tender after slow braising, and the sauce thickens naturally from the reduction of beer and aromatics. Traditionally served with frites or bread, this brunch adaptation pairs beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes and a side of crusty bread to soak up every bit of the luscious gravy. The dish can be prepared ahead and actually improves in flavor when reheated, making it perfect for entertaining.

Instructions

step by step
0/1 done
  1. Cut the beef steak into 2-inch cubes and season generously with salt and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, about 4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. In the same pot, add remaining butter and sauté the diced onions until golden and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir to create a roux, cooking for 2 minutes. Slowly pour in the dark beer while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add bay leaves, thyme, and a pinch of nutmeg. Return the browned beef to the pot along with any accumulated juices. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and braise for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Meanwhile, cut chicory lengthwise into quarters and remove the bitter core. In a separate skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter and sauté the chicory until lightly caramelized, about 6-8 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook until golden, another 5 minutes. After 2 hours, add the chicory and mushrooms to the stew. Continue cooking uncovered for 30 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the beef is fork-tender. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Prepare mashed potatoes by boiling potatoes until tender, then mashing with butter and milk until creamy. Serve the stoofvlees over mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh parsley.

Stoofvlees with Chicory and Mushrooms

4.6 (39)

A rich Flemish beef stew braised in dark beer with caramelized chicory and earthy mushrooms, served over creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty brunch centerpiece.

medium
2h 55m
6 servings

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

  • 1200 grams Beef Steak, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 3 pieces Onions, diced
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 cups Mushrooms, sliced
  • 4 tablespoons Butter, divided
  • 1/4 cups Flour

Seasonings

  • 2 pieces Bay Leaves
  • 2 teaspoons Thyme, dried or fresh
  • 1/4 teaspoons Nutmeg, ground
  • 1 teaspoons Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 teaspoons Salt, to taste

For Serving

  • 6 pieces Potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1/2 cups Milk, warmed

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons Parsley, chopped (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice
Use a full-bodied Belgian dark ale or brown ale for the most authentic flavor - avoid hoppy IPAs which can make the dish too bitter.
The longer you caramelize the onions, the sweeter and more complex your final sauce will be.
This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
For a richer sauce, you can add a tablespoon of dark brown sugar or a piece of gingerbread during the last 30 minutes of cooking, which is a traditional Flemish technique.
If the sauce is too thin after braising, remove the meat and vegetables and reduce the liquid over high heat until thickened to your liking.

Variations & Substitutions

make it your own
If you cannot find fresh chicory, substitute with Belgian endive or even radicchio.
For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour for the roux and ensure your beer is gluten-free.

Serving & Pairings

what goes well
Serve with a green salad dressed in mustard vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

Storage & Reheating

keeping it fresh
Storage

Store cooled stoofvlees in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop and deepen. Can be frozen in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of beer or beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Can also reheat in a 325°F oven covered with foil for 25-30 minutes until heated through. Microwave individual portions on 50% power, stirring every 2 minutes to ensure even heating.