Ingredients
– 2 lbs beef, cubed Provides the main protein and rich flavor as it tenderizes during cooking.
– 3 garlic cloves, crushed and chopped Adds aromatic depth and enhances the overall savoriness.
– 1 onion, finely chopped Builds a flavorful base when sautéed, offering a sweet and pungent note.
– 2 cups beef broth Creates a savory liquid for braising, helping to keep the beef moist and tender.
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced Contributes crunch and vitamins, balancing the stew’s richness.
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced Adds color and a fresh, slightly sweet taste with added nutrition.
– 1 cup tomato sauce Forms the hearty base of the stew, infusing tanginess and moisture.
– ½ cup liver spread, processed using a blender Boosts umami and creaminess, making the sauce more luxurious.
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes Introduces a gentle heat that elevates the dish’s spice level.
– 3 dried bay leaves Infuses subtle herbal notes that enhance the beef’s flavor during simmering.
– 2 cups potatoes, sliced Absorbs flavors and provides a hearty, filling element to the stew.
– 2 cups carrots, sliced Adds sweetness and essential nutrients, helping to thicken the sauce.
– ¼ cup cooking oil Used for sautéing to lock in flavors and prevent sticking.
– ⅔ cup green olives Offers a briny tang that contrasts the richness, making the dish more complex.
– Salt and pepper to taste Seasons the stew perfectly, allowing for personalized adjustments.
Instructions
1-Gathering Your Ingredients and Mise en Place: Start your Filipino Beef Caldereta adventure by organizing everything first. This preparation step ensures smooth cooking and helps busy parents stay on track. Measure out all items like the 2 lbs of cubed beef and chopped vegetables to avoid any rush.
2-First Step: Sauté the Aromatics: Heat ¼ cup cooking oil in a pot or pressure cooker over medium-high heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 3 crushed garlic cloves, stirring until they turn fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base that enhances the beef’s taste in Filipino Beef Caldereta.
3-Second Step: Brown the Beef: Add the 2 lbs of cubed beef to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, searing on medium-high until lightly browned on all sides. This locks in juices and adds depth to the stew. For dietary needs, swap beef for firm tofu and sear for just 2-3 minutes to prevent it from breaking apart.
4-Third Step: Add Spices and Base Ingredients: Stir in 3 dried bay leaves and 1 teaspoon chili flakes for added aroma. Then, mix in ½ cup blended liver spread, followed by 1 cup tomato sauce and 2 cups beef broth. Bring to a simmer; for plant-based versions, adjust braising time as tofu might need only 15-20 minutes at 160-180°C in the oven.
5-Fourth Step: Braise the Beef: Cook the mixture until the beef is tender, about 30 minutes in a pressure cooker or 1-2 hours on the stove at low heat. Monitor the temperature to keep it around 160-180°C if using an oven for braising. For variations, reduce time for chicken substitutes to 30-45 minutes to avoid overcooking.
6-Fifth Step: Incorporate Vegetables: Add 2 cups sliced potatoes and 2 cups sliced carrots, cooking for 8-10 minutes until they soften. Then, include ⅔ cup green olives, 1 sliced red bell pepper, and 1 sliced green bell pepper, simmering for another 5 minutes. Adapt by using sweet potatoes for a lower-carb option, adjusting cook time to 5-7 minutes.
7-Final Step: Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat. Serve hot with warm white rice for a complete meal. This Filipino Beef Caldereta is ready in about 1 hour 10 minutes, making it ideal for food enthusiasts experimenting with dietary swaps like mushrooms for beef.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
⏲ Ensure beef is fully tender; use a pressure cooker to cut cooking time.
🍲 Use a large pot or pressure cooker to prevent broth overflow.
🍖 Substitute fresh pureed liver if liver spread is unavailable.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stewing
- Cuisine: Filipino
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 589
- Sugar: 6 grams
- Sodium: 903 mg
- Fat: 42 grams
- Saturated Fat: 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
- Cholesterol: 109 mg