Filipino Beef Caldereta is a hearty stew filled with tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and a splash of savory spices. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
This dish is great for sharing with family or friends. I love serving it with a big scoop of rice, perfect for soaking up all that tasty sauce. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is tender and flavorful once cooked. For a quicker option, you could use beef stew meat. For a lighter choice, try using chicken or pork; they will cook faster.
Liver Spread: If you’re not a fan, you can skip this or substitute with mushroom pâté to achieve a similar richness. Some people enjoy adding a bit of peanut butter instead!
Tomato Sauce: You can use canned crushed tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes if you prefer a fresher taste. Just cook them down for a bit longer.
Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers or peas based on your preferences. Zucchini or mushrooms can be great additions too!
How Do You Get Tender Beef in Caldereta?
The key to tender beef is in the cooking time! Slow and steady wins the race. Here’s how to ensure your beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender:
- Start by browning the beef cubes well. This develops a deep flavor.
- Add the broth and let it simmer gently. Low heat is crucial; if it’s boiling too hard, it can toughen the meat.
- Give it a good hour and a half, but feel free to check and stir occasionally. If it’s getting dry, add a splash of broth or water.
Cooking the beef long enough in a flavorful liquid breaks down tough fibers, leaving you with perfectly tender meat. Enjoy your Caldereta!
Filipino Beef Caldereta
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup liver spread or liver pâté (optional for richer flavor)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1/2 cup green peas
- 1/2 cup green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 small hot peppers (e.g., siling labuyo), whole or chopped, optional for some heat
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or spring onion for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of preparation time and 2 hours of cooking time. Total, you’ll spend around 2 hours and 20 minutes to create a delicious Beef Caldereta that serves 6-8 people!
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and let them cook down for a few minutes until soft.
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the beef cubes to the pot. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. This step is essential as it seals in the flavors.
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
If you choose to use liver spread or pâté, stir it in now and let it cook for about 2 minutes. This will enrich the dish’s flavor! After that, pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Add the bay leaves and fish sauce. Give everything a good stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Beef:
Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Remember to check and stir occasionally. If it seems like it’s drying out, don’t hesitate to add a little more water or broth.
5. Add the Veggies:
After the beef is tender, it’s time to add the chopped potatoes and sliced carrots. Cook them until they are tender, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes.
6. Finish with More Vegetables:
Finally, add the green peas, green beans, sliced red and green bell peppers, and hot peppers (if you like it spicy). Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the vegetables are vibrant and cooked through.
7. Season to Taste:
At this point, you can season with sugar, salt, and pepper according to your taste. If you want to make it extra creamy, stir in grated cheese and cook for another 5 minutes.
8. Serve:
Remove the bay leaves before serving. Garnish your Caldereta with chopped parsley or spring onions for a fresh touch. Serve hot with steaming white rice for a comforting meal!
Enjoy your delicious and hearty Filipino Beef Caldereta!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for Caldereta?
Absolutely! While beef chuck works great for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also try cuts like brisket or shank for a different flavor. Just ensure the cut is suitable for long, slow cooking to get that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can easily prepare the Caldereta a day in advance. Just cool it completely after cooking, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or beef broth if it seems too thick.
What Should I Serve with Beef Caldereta?
This dish is best served with steamed white rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. You could also pair it with crusty bread for dipping or a side of salad for a refreshing contrast!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Beef Caldereta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just let it cool first, then use a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
