Braising (from the French word braiser) is a combination cooking method that uses both wet and dry heats: typically, the food is first browned at a high temperature, then simmered in a covered pot in cooking liquid (such as wine, broth, coconut milk, or beer). Braising is a combination-cooking method that starts with pan searing followed by slow cooking in a liquid—usually in a Dutch oven or a slow cooker—until ingredients become tender. Discover what braising is, how to braise meat and vegetables and learn the key differences between braising and roasting for making tasty meals at home.

Understanding the Context

Perfected by the French and synonymous with American "pot roasting," braising involves slow-cooking beef roasts in the oven, simmering them in a rich sauce for a period of several hours. With the right ingredients, technique, and a bit of creativity, you can create a hearty meal to feed a whole family. See Step 1 for more information. What does braising mean?

Key Insights

Braising is a combination cooking method that uses both dry- and moist-heat techniques to break down tough cuts of meat over a long period of time. Simply put, braising is a cooking method that involves a quick, high-heat sear followed by a low and gentle simmer in a thin layer of liquid. This marriage of opposites allows the star ingredient to shine, producing a succulent, juicy meat or vegetable that’s steeped in flavor. Braising is a cooking technique that involves both dry and wet heat to slowly cook large pieces of meat and vegetables. The process typically starts with searing the food in fat at a high temperature, followed by cooking it slowly in a covered pot with a small amount of liquid.

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