Braised Dried Beef and Golden Squash Stew
Meats

Braised Dried Beef and Golden Squash Stew

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated October 31, 2026

A hearty, comforting one-pot stew inspired by South American flavors, where tender salted beef meets the natural sweetness of butternut squash. Fragrant garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs bring everything together into a deeply satisfying dish. Serve it over fluffy white rice for a complete family meal.

Prep⏱️ 50 min
Servings👥 6 servings
Difficulty📊 Easy
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🛒 Ingredients

6 servings

6
  • 1 kg dried salted beef (carne seca), soaked overnight to desalt
  • 1 kg butternut squash or pumpkin, cut into chunks
  • 2 ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Black pepper and dried herbs to taste
  • Fresh flat-leaf parsley and chives to finish

Directions

  1. 1

    The night before, soak the dried beef in a large bowl of cold water, changing the water 3 to 4 times to remove excess salt.

  2. 2

    The next day, drain the beef and cook it in a pressure cooker with a small amount of water until very tender. Shred it into rough pieces.

  3. 3

    In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onion until softened and lightly golden.

  4. 4

    Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they form a fragrant sauce.

  5. 5

    Add the shredded beef and squash chunks. Season generously with black pepper.

  6. 6

    Cover and simmer on low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, until the squash is completely tender.

  7. 7

    Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

  8. 8

    Remove from heat, scatter fresh parsley and chives on top, and serve immediately with white rice.

💡 Chef's Tip

Choose a ripe squash with deep orange flesh for extra sweetness and a creamier texture. Dried salted beef is available at Latin or Brazilian grocery stores — corned beef or salt beef can work as a substitute in a pinch.