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Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the inviting aroma of slow-simmered beef, garlic, and spices—it’s a scent that wraps around you like a comforting hug. That’s exactly what you can expect with Lenox’s Sancocho, a delightful Puerto Rican beef stew that has a way of making any gathering special. The first time I tasted this dish, I was struck by its rich depth of flavor—a culinary love letter woven from hearty meats, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant sofrito.

Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re seeking a taste of home, Lenox’s Sancocho embodies the essence of family traditions. Each spoonful is a nostalgic reminder of Sunday afternoons spent around the table, sharing stories and laughter. With its balance of tender beef and a colorful medley of root vegetables, this stew not only feeds the body but also nourishes the soul. Ready to dish out warmth and comfort? Let’s dive into this beloved recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a stew that’s truly unforgettable!

Why will you love Lenox’s Sancocho?

Heartwarming Comfort: This stew is like a warm hug, perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings.
Rich, Flavorful Depth: Every bite boasts tender beef and a medley of vibrant root vegetables steeped in aromatic sofrito.
Family Tradition: Passed down through generations, it holds a special place in the hearts of many.
Versatile & Customizable: Tailor it to your taste by swapping in your favorite veggies or using chicken for a lighter option.
Satisfying & Nourishing: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s not just a meal; it’s a way to feel connected to home. Prepare to savor each delicious bite!

Ingredients for Lenox’s Sancocho

• Get ready to gather these comforting essentials that make this beef stew unforgettable!

For the Beef

Beef Short Ribs – The main protein source that brings a rich, robust flavor to the stew; feel free to substitute with any stew meat.

For the Sofrito

Homemade Sofrito – A flavorful mix of garlic, onions, peppers, and herbs; essential for infusing the stew with deep flavor—make extra to use in other dishes!

For the Vegetables

Root Vegetables (e.g., yuca, sweet potatoes, taro) – They add heartiness and nutrition; mix and match according to your family’s favorites.
Kabocha Squash/Calabaza (Pumpkin) – For a touch of natural sweetness and delightful texture; butternut squash works as a solid substitute.
Corn on the Cob – Contributes sweetness and adds delightful crunch; use fresh or frozen corn for convenience.

For Garnish

Cilantro – A fresh finish that brightens the stew and adds color; parsley can be swapped in for a milder taste.

Gather these delightful ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating Lenox’s Sancocho—a dish that not only satisfies the hunger but also warms the heart!

How to Make Lenox’s Sancocho

Marinate the Beef: Begin by coating the beef short ribs with your homemade sofrito, ensuring every piece is well-covered. Let them rest for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors, enhancing the depth of the stew.
Sear the Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of oil and carefully brown the short ribs on all sides. This step is crucial—aim for a nice golden crust without burning. Once done, remove the beef and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add more sofrito and sauté until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally, letting the aromatic blend infuse your kitchen with its savory goodness.
Cook the Beef: Return the seared ribs to the pot. Add in your chosen root vegetables, kabocha squash, and corn, then cover everything with water or broth. Ensure all ingredients are submerged for even cooking.
Simmer: Bring the pot to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally, until the meat becomes fork-tender and the stew thickens.
Final Adjustments: Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you’d like, garnish each bowl with fresh cilantro for a pop of flavor and color.

Optional: Serve with a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Lenox’s Sancocho?

Imagine a table adorned with vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas, complementing the comforting warmth of your hearty stew.

White Rice: A perfect pairing that soaks up the luscious broth, enhancing each bite and adding a satisfying texture.
Crusty Bread: Freshly baked bread can make your meal even more enjoyable, perfect for dipping into the rich stew.
Tostones: Crispy twice-fried green plantains offer a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the stew’s tenderness.
Avocado Salad: A refreshing, creamy avocado salad adds a burst of fresh flavor, balancing the hearty stew nicely.
Cornbread: Slightly sweet and fluffy, cornbread complements the savory notes of Sancocho, offering a cozy addition to your meal.
Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy, this vibrant salsa brings a tropical flair that brightens every spoonful of stew.
Beer or Sangria: A light lager or a fruity sangria pairs perfectly, enhancing the flavors while providing a refreshing contrast.
Flan: For a delightful finish, creamy flan offers a silky texture and sweet end-note to your comforting feast.

Make Ahead Options

Lenox’s Sancocho is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty family dinner with minimal effort on busy weeknights. You can prepare the homemade sofrito and marinate the beef short ribs up to 24 hours in advance, letting those rich flavors develop. Additionally, chop and store the root vegetables and squash in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply return the marinated beef to the pot along with the prepped vegetables and follow the cooking instructions as usual. This way, you’ll still enjoy all the comforting flavors of Lenox’s Sancocho, just with a head start! Remember, refrigerating overnight enhances the taste and quality of this beloved stew.

Variations & Substitutions for Lenox’s Sancocho

Invite a delightful twist to your Sancocho experience by exploring these creative variations!

Chicken or Turkey: For a lighter stew, swap out the beef for tender chicken or turkey pieces. It transforms the dish while maintaining that hearty essence.
Vegetable Medley: Add carrots, green beans, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. Mixing in seasonal vegetables gives a fresh update to this timeless classic.
Spicy Kick: Craving some heat? Toss in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to elevate flavors and warm your palate. This twist adds excitement with every spoonful!
Sweet Potatoes: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness. The creamy texture will enhance the stew’s comfort factor, making it even more enjoyable.
Vegan Delight: For a plant-based option, use chickpeas or lentils along with a variety of root vegetables. You’ll still achieve a savory depth without the meat.
Citrus Zest: A splash of orange or lime juice at the end brightens up the rich flavors beautifully. This variation will invigorate your stew, leaving your taste buds dancing.
Herbal Infusion: Swap out cilantro for fresh parsley or basil for a different aromatic profile. Each herb lends a unique character that can redefine your Sancocho experience.
Thickened Stew: For a heartier texture, blend a portion of the vegetables into the broth to create a thicker stew. It’s a lovely way to make every bite more satisfying and creamy.

With these variations, you can craft a Sancocho that meets your family’s tastes and dietary preferences while still keeping the spirit of this heartwarming dish alive!

How to Store and Freeze Lenox’s Sancocho

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This hearty stew tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Lenox’s Sancocho in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before sealing.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Make-Ahead: Consider preparing Lenox’s Sancocho a day in advance; refrigerating overnight allows the flavors to deepen, making it a perfect make-ahead comfort food option.

Expert Tips for Lenox’s Sancocho

Sear for Flavor: Ensure a good hard sear on the short ribs to develop a rich flavor. Watch carefully to avoid burning the sofrito.
Perfect Simmer: Allow plenty of simmering time—at least 2-3 hours. This helps break down the connective tissues, making the beef tender and flavorful.
Thickening Tricks: For a heartier consistency, mash some of the root vegetables into the broth before serving; it adds both thickness and creamy texture.
Season to Taste: Always taste your stew for seasoning before serving; the flavor can elevate with a pinch more salt or even a splash of citrus.
Ingredient Flexibility: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables for Lenox’s Sancocho; it’s versatile enough to cater to your family’s tastes!

Lenox’s Sancocho Recipe FAQs

What kind of beef is best for Lenox’s Sancocho?
For the best flavor, I recommend using beef short ribs as they provide a rich, robust taste. However, you can substitute them with any stew meat like chuck or brisket if short ribs aren’t available.

How do I store leftovers of Lenox’s Sancocho?
Store your Sancocho in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This hearty stew often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully!

Can I freeze Lenox’s Sancocho? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, let your Sancocho cool completely after cooking. Then, portion it into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, ensuring you press out as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if my Sancocho is too watery?
If you find your Sancocho is a bit too watery, you have a couple of options! First, you can let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and thicken the stew. Alternatively, mash a few of the root vegetables directly into the broth. This adds both thickness and a delicious creaminess.

Is there a way to make Lenox’s Sancocho gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt Lenox’s Sancocho to be gluten-free! Just make sure to use gluten-free broth or stock. Most of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s simply a matter of checking your broth and avoiding any other gluten-containing products.

Can I make Lenox’s Sancocho in advance?
Yes, I often recommend making it a day in advance. The flavors deepen overnight, making each bite even more luxurious! Just be sure to store it properly in the fridge.