Filipino Beef Caldereta is a hearty stew that’s packed with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. It’s cooked in a tasty tomato sauce with a hint of spice that warms your heart!
This dish is perfect for family dinners! I love serving it over rice, and it always leaves everyone wanting more. Trust me, you’ll find it hard to resist sneaking a second helping! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for slow cooking, becoming tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute with beef round or brisket.
Liver Spread: Essential for that distinct flavor, you can swap it with mashed liver or omit it for a lighter dish. Some people use mushrooms for a different texture.
Cheese Spread: This adds creaminess. If you don’t have it, cream cheese or a bit of grated cheddar can work, giving a nice richness to the dish.
Potatoes and Carrots: These add texture and sweetness. You can replace them with sweet potatoes or parsnips, which bring their own unique flavors to the stew.
Bell Peppers: They add great color and flavor. You can use any bell pepper you like or even try zucchini or green beans if you prefer.
How Do I Make the Beef Tender and Flavorful?
One of the secrets to a great Caldereta is slow cooking! Here’s how to ensure your beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender:
- Brown the beef first! It locks in flavor and helps develop a richer taste for your stew.
- Use plenty of liquid for simmering. Beef broth is great, but water works just fine if that’s what you have.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time on low heat. This is key for tenderizing the meat!
- Stir occasionally and check if the liquid is sufficient to prevent sticking or burning.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious Beef Caldereta that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
Filipino Beef Caldereta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 3 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup liver spread or liver pâté
- 3 cups beef broth or water
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup cheese spread (optional)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (patis)
- 1/2 cup green peas (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Spring onions, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Filipino Beef Caldereta recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep time and approximately 2 hours of cooking time. After allowing the beef to simmer until tender, you’ll be ready to enjoy a heartwarming dish perfect for any family gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with Sautéing the Aromatics:
In a large pot over medium heat, pour the cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become fragrant and the onions turn translucent. This step sets the foundation for flavor!
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the beef cubes to the pot. Make sure to brown them on all sides; this will help lock in the flavor. Stir occasionally for a few minutes until they develop a nice brown color.
3. Add Tomatoes and Sauces:
Now, stir in the chopped tomatoes, cooking until they become soft. Next, pour in the soy sauce and fish sauce, mixing everything in well.
4. Let It Simmer:
Add 3 cups of beef broth or water to the pot. Cover it and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This step is key, as it allows the beef to become nice and tender. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn’t dry out!
5. Time for the Flavors:
Once the beef is tender, add the tomato sauce and liver spread. Stir to combine everything well and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes. This will enrich the sauce and add depth to your dish.
6. Add the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add the chopped potatoes and sliced carrots. Cook until the vegetables are just under tender, about 10-15 minutes. You want them soft, but not mushy!
7. Creamy and Colorful:
If you’re using cheese spread, stir it in now for that creamy texture! Then add the red and green bell peppers along with the green peas, and cook for another 5 minutes. These add a pop of color and more nutrition to the dish.
8. Final Seasoning:
Give the stew a taste and season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. Every palate is different, so adjust to your liking!
9. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, garnish with chopped spring onions for a fresh touch. Serve your Beef Caldereta hot alongside steamed white rice for a truly satisfying meal. Enjoy the rich flavors!
Bon appétit! Your Filipino Beef Caldereta is ready to impress family and friends with its delicious taste! 🌟
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for Caldereta?
Yes! While beef chuck is ideal due to its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use beef brisket or round. Just ensure the cut has enough marbling for flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot over low heat or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you prefer some heat, you can add chopped chili peppers or a splash of hot sauce during the cooking process. Adjust it to your spice tolerance!
What Can I Serve with Caldereta?
This stew is best enjoyed with steamed white rice, but you can also serve it with garlic bread or even mashed potatoes. The rich sauce pairs wonderfully with any of these sides!