Meat Cholent
Meat cholent is a hearty, slow-cooked stew combining tender beef, beans, barley, and potatoes, infused with warming spices. Perfect for a comforting family meal or Sabbath tradition, it offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that improves with slow cooking, making it ideal for prepare-ahead feasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the dried lima beans overnight in water and then drain.
- Use a heavy saucepan or Dutch oven to brown the brisket and diced onions in fat or margarine.
- Sprinkle the browned meat and onions with salt, pepper, and ginger.
- Add the soaked beans, pearled barley, peeled small potatoes, and sprinkle with flour and paprika.
- Place the uncooked eggs in shells on top of the mixture.
- Pour enough boiling water to cover the ingredients by one inch.
- Cover the pot tightly.
- Bake at 250°F (125°C) for 24 hours or at 350°F (180°C) for 4 to 5 hours, depending on desired cooking time.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a few slices of smoked sausage, like Hot Polish Sausage, to the pot. If you can't find lima beans, navy beans or pinto beans can be good substitutes. Be sure to soak the beans well, as this helps them cook evenly and prevents them from becoming too mushy during the long cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cholent with crusty bread or challah to soak up the flavorful broth. A side salad can provide a refreshing contrast. This dish is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with sides like Spanish Rice With Turkey for a comforting meal. The eggs can be enjoyed separately or mixed into the stew for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cholent can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring they're heated through before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Cholent contains roughly 1233 calories, with 13g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (174% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), and potassium (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2162mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare cholent in a slow cooker instead?
Yes, cholent can be made in a slow cooker. After browning the brisket and onions, transfer them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours until everything is tender and flavorful.
Is it necessary to add eggs to cholent?
Adding eggs is traditional and they become wonderfully hard-boiled during the cooking process, adding both flavor and texture. However, if you prefer, you can omit them or substitute with silken tofu for a different protein source.
What should I do if my cholent is too thick?
If your cholent turns out too thick, simply stir in some hot water or broth until you reach your desired consistency. Remember that it will thicken as it cools, so adjust accordingly before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).