What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
braise
Example
I like to braise beef short ribs in red wine for several hours until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. [braise: verb]
Example
The chef is braising the vegetables in a mixture of butter and olive oil to enhance their flavor. [braising: present participle]
stew
Example
My grandmother makes a delicious beef stew with carrots, potatoes, and onions. [stew: noun]
Example
We stewed the chicken in a rich tomato sauce for hours to infuse it with flavor. [stewed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stew is more commonly used than braise in everyday language. Stew is a versatile term that can be used to describe a wide range of slow-cooked dishes, while braise is more specific to the browning and simmering technique.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between braise and stew?
Both braise and stew can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, braise may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its association with culinary techniques.