Chanfana
Portuguese Goat Stew
Chanfana is a traditional Portuguese goat stew, slow-braised in red wine with aromatic spices. Originating from the Beira region, this rustic dish is known for its incredibly tender meat that falls off the bone.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Goat meat(Bone-in, cut into large stewing pieces (e.g., shoulder, leg).)
- 750 ml Dry red wine(A robust Portuguese red like Douro or Alentejo is recommended.)
- 1 head Garlic(Cloves separated and peeled, or left whole and smashed.)
- 4 Bay leaves(Dried bay leaves.)
- 2 tbsp Sweet paprika(For color and mild flavor.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive oil(Optional, for searing if desired.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the goat: If not already done, cut the goat meat into large, stew-sized pieces (about 5-7 cm or 2-3 inches). Pat the meat dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Marinate (optional but recommended): In a large bowl or directly in the clay pot, combine the goat pieces, peeled garlic cloves, bay leaves, and paprika. Pour the red wine over the meat, ensuring it is mostly submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
⏱️ 10 minutes (plus marinating time) - 3
Sear the meat (optional): If you prefer a deeper flavor, remove the goat pieces from the marinade, reserving the liquid. Heat olive oil in a separate pan over medium-high heat. Sear the goat pieces in batches until browned on all sides. Transfer the seared meat back to the clay pot.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 4
Braise the Chanfana: Place the marinated goat (and any seared meat) into a traditional clay pot (or a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven). Pour the reserved marinade liquid over the meat. Ensure the liquid comes about two-thirds of the way up the meat; add a little water if necessary. The lid should fit snugly.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Slow Cook: Cover the clay pot tightly with its lid. Place in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F). Braise for approximately 4 hours, or until the goat meat is exceptionally tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Check periodically after 3 hours; the exact time will depend on the cut and size of the meat.
⏱️ 4 hours - 6
Rest and Serve: Once tender, remove the pot from the oven. Let the chanfana rest, covered, for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve the tender goat meat with its rich sauce. It is traditionally served with boiled potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓A traditional clay pot (alguidar) is ideal for its heat retention and slow cooking properties, but a heavy Dutch oven will also work.
- ✓The long, slow braising time is crucial for tenderizing the goat meat and developing deep flavors.
- ✓Chanfana is excellent served with simple boiled potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to mop up the flavorful sauce.
- ✓For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the goat overnight in the red wine and spices.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- While goat is traditional, lamb can be substituted for a similar rich stew.
- Experiment with different types of robust red wines, such as a hearty Syrah or Merlot.