Cantabrian Style Beef Cheeks (Carrilleras de Ternera a la Cántabra)

Carrilleras de Ternera a la Cántabra, or Cantabrian Style Beef Cheeks, is a traditional dish from the Cantabrian region of Spain. This recipe features tender beef cheeks braised in a flavorful sauce, creating a rich and hearty dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting meal at home.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Cantabrian Spanish Cuisine Braised Beef Cantabrian Recipes
Cantabrian Style Beef Cheeks (Carrilleras de Ternera a la Cántabra)

Ingredients

  • 1 kg beef cheeks
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 500ml beef stock
  • 250ml red wine
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the beef cheeks with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cheeks until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  3. Lower the heat to medium and add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened.
  4. Pour in the red wine and deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  5. Return the beef cheeks to the pot and add the bay leaf and beef stock. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 3 hours, or until the meat is tender.
  6. Once the beef cheeks are tender, remove them from the pot and set aside. Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly.
  7. Return the beef cheeks to the pot and heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve the Carrilleras de Ternera a la Cántabra with your choice of side dishes.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
3 hours
Total time:
3 hours
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large pot Cutting board Knife Tongs Measuring cups Measuring spoons

Tools

Ladle Cooking spoon Cheesecloth (optional for straining sauce)

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestions: Carrilleras de Ternera a la Cántabra pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips & tricks

Tip: For a deeper flavor, prepare the dish a day ahead and reheat before serving.

Cost

$25