Ultimate Filipino Beef Caldereta with Peanut Butter Twist

What is Beef Caldereta?

Beef Caldereta is a popular Filipino dish known for its rich, hearty, and flavorful sauce. It is a comforting stew made with tender beef cubes, a tomato-based sauce, and a medley of vegetables, such as potatoes, bell peppers, and sometimes olives or peas. The dish is also characterized by its unique blend of ingredients, including peanut butter or liver spread, which adds depth and complexity to the flavor.

According to Chef RV, this particular Beef Caldereta recipe is what he grew up with and what taught him to be a foodie. He emphasizes the importance of taking time to braise the meat, which allows it to absorb the flavors of the sauce and become fork-tender. By following his family's traditional recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic taste of Filipino cuisine right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 kg Beef cubes
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• Fish sauce, for seasoning
• 2 red bell peppers (medium size), finely chopped
• 150 g tomato sauce
• 330g beef stock
• 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/3 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 80 g peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons evaporated milk
• 1.5 tablespoons tomato paste
• Splash of vinegar
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 3 hard boiled eggs, peeled and sliced
• Salt, pepper, sugar to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the sofrito Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or pressure cooker over medium heat. Sauté onions, garlic, and finely chopped red bell pepper until caramelized. Season with salt.

2. Add the beef Add beef cubes to the sofrito and sauté until browned. Season with soy sauce and cracked black pepper.

3. Add the sauce and liquids Stir in tomato sauce, beef stock, and, if desired, tomato paste. If using a pressure cooker, cover and cook for 1 hour. For traditional stovetop cooking, cover and simmer for 2-3 hours.

4. Add the remaining ingredients Transfer the mixture to a large pan, then add potatoes, evaporated milk, peanut butter, sugar, a splash of soy sauce, and vinegar. Allow the mixture to boil before stirring. Add cubed red bell peppers, garbanzos, and sliced hard-boiled eggs.

5. Simmer and serve Simmer the dish for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.

Nutrition Information

This recipe serves 6 people, with approximately 350 grams per serving.

Per serving:

• Calories: 620 kcal
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 1200mg

Serving Suggestions:

Beef Caldereta is traditionally served with steamed rice, but you can also pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a lighter meal.

Ingredient Substitutes:

• If beef cubes are unavailable, you can substitute with pork or chicken.
• For a dairy-free version, replace evaporated milk with coconut milk.
• Fresh tomatoes can be used in place of tomato sauce; just add 2 cups of finely chopped tomatoes.

Tips and Tricks:

• For a thicker sauce, mix peanut butter with some broth before adding it to the dish.
• Add a splash of vinegar to prevent the dish from spoiling and to add a subtle tanginess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Beef Caldereta in advance?

Yes, you can make Beef Caldereta in advance. In fact, the flavors develop and become more robust when the dish is allowed to rest overnight. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I freeze Beef Caldereta?

Beef Caldereta can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. When you're ready to enjoy it, defrost the dish in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Beef Caldereta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat the dish thoroughly before serving.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, you can customize the vegetables in Beef Caldereta according to your preference. Some popular options include carrots, green peas, and olives.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of cracked black pepper or eliminate it altogether. Alternatively, you can also add more sugar to balance out the heat.

Now that you have all the information you need, it's time to gather your ingredients and start cooking this delicious Filipino feast. Enjoy!