As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling garlic and shallots wafted through the air, transporting me straight to the bustling streets of Manila. This week, I’m excited to share my take on Beef Kare-Kare, a beloved Filipino stew celebrated for its velvety peanut sauce and tender morsels of beef. What I adore about this dish is not just its comforting, hearty nature, but also how it brings family and friends together—making it perfect for cozy gatherings or special occasions. The great news? This recipe offers a quick prep that’s as delightful as it is satisfying, allowing you to create an authentic taste of Filipino cuisine in no time. Ready to dive into the flavors of this culinary treasure? Let’s cook up something unforgettable!

Why Is Kare-Kare So Loved?

Unforgettable Flavor: The rich, creamy peanut sauce beautifully complements the tender beef, making each bite a delight.

Versatile: This stew can be made with different meats like pork or chicken, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences.

Easy Prep: With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a stunning dish that feels like an elaborate feat in the kitchen.

Crowd-Pleaser: Kare-Kare is perfect for gatherings, sure to impress both family and friends alike. Serve it up with steamed jasmine rice for a balanced meal that warms the soul.

Heartfelt Tradition: Sharing this dish taps into Filipino culture, reminding us all of the importance of family and food. So, if you’re craving comfort, or looking for a unique alternative to fast food, this recipe could be just what you need!

Beef Kare-Kare Ingredients

For the Stew
• Beef Oxtail or Chuck Roast – The main protein, with oxtail offering a rich flavor; consider pork or chicken for a twist.
• Tripe – This optional ingredient adds unique texture; feel free to omit for a simpler dish.
• Garlic – Infuses aromatic flavor; fresh garlic yields the best results.
• Shallots – Provide sweetness and depth; onions can substitute effectively.
• Fish Sauce – Adds essential umami; substitute with soy sauce for a non-fish option.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Enhances overall seasoning; adjust to suit your taste.

For the Vegetables
• Banana Blossoms – Contributes a distinct flavor; use only the white part for best results.
• Yard-Long Beans (or Chinese Long Beans) – Offers earthiness and crunch; regular green beans make a fine substitute.
• Japanese Eggplant – Absorbs flavors well when cooked; regular eggplant is a good alternative.
• Bok Choy – Adds freshness and bright color; any leafy green can work here.

For the Sauce
• Peanut Butter – The star of the dish, providing a creamy texture; choose smooth or chunky based on preference.
• Achiote (Annatto) Seeds – Imparts vibrant color to the sauce; ready-made annatto oil can simplify the process.

These ingredients come together to create an exquisite Beef Kare-Kare that will make your taste buds dance and your kitchen feel warm with the essence of Filipino cuisine!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beef Kare-Kare

Step 1: Blanch the Meat
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Carefully add the beef oxtail or chuck roast along with tripe, if using, and blanch for about 5 minutes. This process helps remove impurities; after blanching, drain the meat and set it aside to prepare for the next steps in making your delicious Beef Kare-Kare.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a deep, heavy-bottomed pan, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add minced garlic and diced shallots, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent. The savory aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s time to move on to the next step of creating the rich base for your Beef Kare-Kare.

Step 3: Render the Fat
Add the blanched beef to the pan and stir to coat the meat with the aromatic mixture. Cover the pan and cook for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the meat to render its fat and brown slightly. This step is crucial for developing the deep flavors that will define your comforting Beef Kare-Kare.

Step 4: Cook the Meat
Pour enough boiling water over the meat to fully cover it, then add a splash of fish sauce and freshly ground black pepper for seasoning. If desired, you can stir in beef bouillon for an extra flavor boost. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer, covering the pot for 1 to 1.5 hours until the meat is fork-tender.

Step 5: Prepare Annatto Extract
While the meat cooks, prepare the annatto extract. In a small pot, combine achiote seeds with boiling water and let it steep for about 10 minutes. Once the color is vibrant, strain the mixture to remove the seeds, reserving the bright liquid. This extract will enhance both the color and flavor of your Beef Kare-Kare.

Step 6: Incorporate Peanut Butter
Once the beef is tender, slowly stir in the banana blossoms and peanut butter, making sure to blend thoroughly until the peanut butter dissolves into the sauce. The mixture will transform into a velvety texture, combining beautifully with the meat and adding that signature nutty flavor that makes Beef Kare-Kare so irresistible.

Step 7: Add Vegetables
Now, it’s time to introduce the remaining vegetables, such as yard-long beans and Japanese eggplant, along with the reserved annatto extract. Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color. You’ll see the sauce turn a rich yellow hue, hinting at the deliciousness ahead.

Step 8: Finish and Serve
Quickly blanch the bok choy in boiling water for a minute until just wilted. To serve, ladle your aromatic Beef Kare-Kare into bowls, topping each with the blanched bok choy. Consider offering shrimp paste on the side for those who want that salty kick. Your delightful Filipino comfort food is now ready to be enjoyed with family and friends!

Make Ahead Options

These Beef Kare-Kare preparations are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! You can blanch and prepare the meats up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the blanched beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, prepare the annatto extract ahead of time and refrigerate it; this ensures vibrant color and flavor. When you’re ready to finish your Beef Kare-Kare, simply sauté the aromatics, add the prepared meats, and simmer with the other ingredients as detailed in the recipe. This approach not only saves you valuable time on busy weeknights but keeps the dish just as delicious as if it were made fresh!

What to Serve with Beef Kare-Kare

Bringing the warmth of Filipino flavors to your table can be a delightful experience, especially when you know what to pair it with.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The soft, fluffy rice perfectly balances the creamy peanut sauce, soaking up every delicious drop.
Garlic Fried Rice: A fragrant twist on rice, adding garlicky goodness that complements the savory notes of the stew.
Pancit Canton: These stir-fried noodles add texture and an extra layer of flavor, making your meal even more satisfying.
Fresh Vegetable Salad: A crisp salad with tomato and cucumber offers a refreshing contrast to the rich stew. The bright flavors help cleanse the palate.
Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed to keep its crunch, this vegetable echoes the bok choy served on top of the dish and brings extra nutrients.
Fried Tofu: Crispy tofu adds a delightful crunch while absorbing the stew’s flavors, making for a heartwarming accompaniment.
Banana Ketchup Glazed Chicken: The sweet-savory profile of this dish pairs beautifully, echoing the unique flavors of Kare-Kare.
Mango Float Dessert: A layered dessert of mango and cream provides a sweet, cooling contrast to the hearty stew.
Calamansi Juice: This tangy drink refreshes the palette and complements the stew’s rich flavors wonderfully.
Halo-Halo: This vibrant Filipino dessert adds a festive touch, perfect for ending your meal on a sweet note.

How to Store and Freeze Beef Kare-Kare

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the stew cool completely before sealing to retain its full flavor.

Freezer: Beef Kare-Kare can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring there’s enough room for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency.

Serving: For optimal freshness, enjoy reheated Beef Kare-Kare with freshly steamed jasmine rice to complement its rich, savory peanut sauce.

Expert Tips for Beef Kare-Kare

Maximize Flavor: Lightly season your stew as you’ll likely serve it with salty shrimp paste on the side. Balance is key.

Thickening Sauce: If the sauce turns out too thin, mix a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to thicken it to your liking.

Pressure Cooking: Consider using a pressure cooker to significantly reduce cooking time, yielding tender beef in a fraction of the conventional method’s time.

Choosing Peanut Butter: Select high-quality peanut butter for the sauce; natural and unsweetened varieties will enhance the nutty flavor in your Beef Kare-Kare.

Vegetable Varieties: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes, but be careful not to overcook to maintain their texture.

Meat Alternatives: Experiment with different meats like chicken or pork to suit everyone’s taste. Each version offers unique flavor nuances!

Beef Kare-Kare: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore delicious twists and adjustments that will make this Beef Kare-Kare your own!

Pork or Chicken: Swap out beef for pork or chicken for a lighter take. Each option brings its unique flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat entirely and use hearty mushrooms and tofu. This version is rich and satisfying without any meat!
Tripe-Free: If you’re not a fan of tripe, simply leave it out for a simplified stew. The flavors will still shine!
Additional Vegetables: Introduce carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious boost. They’ll add sweetness and texture to the dish.
Heat It Up: For those who crave a kick, add a touch of chili paste or crushed red pepper. A little heat elevates the flavors beautifully.
Gluten-Free: Make sure to use gluten-free fish sauce or soy sauce for a gluten-free version. It still satisfies that umami craving without worry!
Dairy-Free Creaminess: Substitute peanut butter with almond butter if you’re looking for a nut-free alternative that still provides creaminess.

Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! For some inspiring dishes, consider pairing your Beef Kare-Kare with some garlicky green beans or even a refreshing chilled cucumber salad.

Beef Kare-Kare Recipe FAQs

What type of meat is best for Kare-Kare?
Absolutely! Traditional Kare-Kare is made with beef oxtail for its rich flavor and tender texture. However, you can also use chuck roast, pork, or chicken to suit your dietary preferences. Each type of meat brings its own unique taste to the dish.

How should I store leftover Kare-Kare?
Very! Leftover Beef Kare-Kare should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the stew cool completely before sealing the container to preserve its delicious flavors. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat.

Can I freeze Kare-Kare?
Absolutely! You can freeze Beef Kare-Kare for up to 3 months. To do this, portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy your Kar-Kare again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop.

What if my sauce is too thin?
Don’t worry! If your Kare-Kare sauce turns out too thin, you can easily thicken it by mixing a cornstarch slurry. Combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, stir until smooth, and add it to your simmering sauce, stirring continuously until it thickens to your liking.

Is Kare-Kare gluten-free?
Yes, it can be gluten-free! To ensure that your Beef Kare-Kare is gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free fish sauce or substitute it with soy sauce alternatives. Always check ingredient labels for hidden gluten sources to keep your dish safe for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I use different vegetables in Kare-Kare?
The more the merrier! Kare-Kare is highly versatile when it comes to vegetables. You can substitute yard-long beans with regular green beans or add carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Just remember not to overcook the vegetables to maintain their vibrant colors and textures!