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Kare-Kare is a beloved Filipino dish that stands out with its rich, peanut-infused sauce, tender beef, and vibrant vegetables. Often the star of family gatherings and special occasions, it brings people together with its comforting, savory flavors. Whether you’re new to Filipino cuisine or looking to perfect your recipe, this guide will walk you through creating an authentic Beef Kare-Kare, step by step.
Ingredients for the Perfect Beef Kare-Kare
Achieving the perfect Beef Kare-Kare starts with a careful selection of ingredients. Here's what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- Beef Shank (2 lbs): Bone-in shank maximizes the flavor from the marrow.
- Oxtail (1 lb): Adds richness and a gelatinous texture.
- Peanut Butter (1 cup): Creamy or chunky, based on preference.
- Annatto Seeds (2 tbsp): Soak in warm water for color, or use annatto powder.
- Bagoong (Shrimp Paste): Essential for serving, adding a salty contrast.
Vegetables
- Banana Blossoms (1 cup): Soak in saltwater to remove bitterness.
- Eggplant (2 pcs): Sliced into rounds.
- String Beans (1 cup): Cut into 2-inch pieces.
- Bok Choy (1 bunch): Cut into halves.
Spices and Aromatics
- Garlic (5 cloves): Minced.
- Onion (1 large): Chopped.
- Ground Rice (1/2 cup): Toasted and ground for thickening.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
1. Preparing the Meat
Start by boiling the beef shank and oxtail in a large pot filled with water. This step tenderizes the meat and releases flavors from the bones. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface. Once the meat is tender, usually after about 2-3 hours, remove it from the heat and set aside the broth for later.
2. Sautéing Aromatics
In a separate pan, heat some oil and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant. Add the annatto water or powder, stirring well to coat the aromatics. This step imparts the dish's signature golden-orange hue.
3. Crafting the Peanut Sauce
Stir in the peanut butter and ground rice into the sautéed aromatics, slowly adding the reserved broth to achieve your desired consistency. Keep stirring to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, rich sauce. Let the mixture simmer on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
4. Cooking the Vegetables
Add the banana blossoms, eggplant, string beans, and bok choy into the sauce. Cook until the vegetables are tender yet retain a slight crunch, providing texture and contrast to the tender meat.
5. Combining the Meat and Sauce
Reintroduce the tender beef shank and oxtail into the pot, stirring gently to coat the meat evenly with the peanut sauce. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the meat to absorb the sauce's rich flavors.
6. Serving Your Kare-Kare
Serve the Kare-Kare hot, paired with steamed white rice and a side of bagoong. The salty shrimp paste enhances the dish’s nutty and savory profile, making it an irreplaceable accompaniment.
Tips for Perfecting Your Kare-Kare
- Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, adjust by adding more broth. If it’s too thin, a bit more ground rice can help thicken it.
- Balance: Kare-Kare’s flavor is all about balance. Adjust peanut butter, salt, and bagoong to suit your taste.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like daikon radish, depending on your preference.
Health Benefits of Kare-Kare Ingredients
- Beef Shank and Oxtail: Rich in collagen, beneficial for joint and skin health.
- Peanut Butter: A good source of protein and healthy fats, adding both flavor and nutritional value.
- Vegetables: Banana blossoms and string beans provide dietary fiber, while bok choy is rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
Conclusion
Beef Kare-Kare is more than just a dish; it's a reflection of Filipino heritage and culinary tradition. With its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors, it's sure to impress anyone around your table. Follow these steps, and you'll master the art of making an authentic Beef Kare-Kare that brings the true essence of Filipino cuisine to your home. Enjoy the cooking process, and savor the rich, nutty, and deeply satisfying flavors of this classic dish.