Description
Beef Kare-Kare is a classic Filipino stew, rich and comforting, best known for its peanut-based sauce and tender cuts of beef. Traditionally served at fiestas, family gatherings, and Sunday lunches, Kare-Kare is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of Filipino culture and togetherness. The savory-sweet peanut sauce pairs beautifully with oxtail, beef shank, or short ribs, and the dish is typically enjoyed with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) on the side, which adds a salty punch that balances the richness. Served with rice, it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that embodies the essence of Filipino comfort food.
Ingredients
-
2 lbs (900 g) beef shank, oxtail, or short ribs (or a mix)
-
1 onion, quartered
-
5 cups water
-
2 tbsp vegetable oil
-
4 garlic cloves, minced
-
1 onion, finely chopped
-
1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky, depending on preference)
-
1/4 cup ground toasted rice (for thickening)
-
1/4 cup annatto seeds (soaked in warm water) or 1 tbsp annatto powder
-
1 eggplant, sliced into rounds
-
1 bunch bok choy or pechay, trimmed
-
1 banana heart (optional, traditional ingredient), sliced
-
12–15 long green beans, trimmed
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
-
Bagoong (fermented shrimp paste), for serving
Instructions
ctions
-
Place beef shank and/or oxtail in a large pot with onion and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 ½–2 hours until meat is tender. Skim off impurities while cooking. Remove meat and set aside, reserving the broth.
-
In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic and chopped onion until softened.
-
Stir in peanut butter, ground toasted rice, and annatto water (or powder). Add 4 cups of reserved beef broth, stirring until smooth and thickened. Simmer gently for 10 minutes.
-
Return the cooked beef to the pot and coat with the sauce. Simmer for another 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
-
Meanwhile, blanch vegetables (eggplant, bok choy, banana heart, and green beans) in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until just tender but still vibrant. Drain and set aside.
-
Arrange vegetables around the beef stew when serving, or serve on the side for guests to mix in.
-
Enjoy hot with steamed white rice and bagoong on the side.
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 25 minutes