Filipino Beef Caldereta is a yummy stew made with tender beef, potatoes, and veggies, all cooked in a rich tomato sauce. It’s hearty and perfect for sharing with family!
This dish is like a warm hug on a plate. I love serving it with rice, and every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s just fun to say “caldereta” at the dinner table! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is great for slow cooking thanks to its tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can try using sirloin or even stew meat. Just keep in mind that cook time may vary.
Liver Spread: This adds rich flavor to the dish. If you’d rather skip it or can’t find it, try substituting with mashed beans or a little bit of peanut butter for creaminess. It’s not traditional, but it works!
Vegetables: Feel free to customize the veggies! If you don’t have green peas or bell peppers, you can add corn, beans, or any vegetables you like. Just make sure they cook similarly in time to the potatoes and carrots.
Fish Sauce: This is optional, but it gives an umami kick. If you’re not into it, just increase the soy sauce, or use a dash of Worcestershire sauce instead. It’ll still taste great!
How Do I Make Sure the Beef is Tender?
Getting tender beef in your caldereta is key! Start by searing the beef until it’s nicely browned. This locks in the flavors. The slow simmering is crucial, so resist the urge to rush it.
- After browning the meat, pour in your liquids and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and cover the pot—this retains moisture and makes the beef tender.
- Check occasionally and stir to prevent sticking at the bottom; add water if needed!
Longer cooking makes a big difference, so allow that 1.5 to 2 hours to work its magic. Enjoy your comforting caldereta! 😊
How to Make Filipino Beef Caldereta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 3 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp liver spread or liver pâté
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup green peas
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Green onions or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Filipino Beef Caldereta will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 2 hours to cook. The slow simmering allows the beef to become tender and flavorful, making it worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant and flavorful.
2. Sear the Beef:
Next, toss in the beef cubes into the pot and sear them until they are browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the beef.
3. Add the Tomato Sauce:
Pour in the tomato sauce and stir it around to coat the beef evenly. This gives the dish its signature rich color and flavor.
4. Mix in the Liver:
Stir in the liver spread and make sure it’s well combined with the beef and sauce. This adds a nice depth of flavor to your caldereta.
5. Start the Simmer:
Pour in the beef broth (or water) and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add the Vegetables:
Once the beef is tender, add the chunks of potatoes and carrots to the pot. Cook for another 15 minutes or so until the veggies are tender.
7. Finish with Bell Peppers and Seasoning:
Now, it’s time to add the green peas and bell peppers. Season the mixture with soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Let it cook for another 5 minutes, so everything melds together.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Remove the bay leaves before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley on top. Enjoy your beautiful and hearty Beef Caldereta with a bowl of steamed white rice!
This delightful Filipino dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. It’s comfort food at its finest—rich in flavor and packed with wholesome ingredients! Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for Caldereta?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is perfect for slow cooking, you can use cuts like brisket or shank. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary based on the cut’s tenderness.
What Can I Substitute for Liver Spread?
If you’re not a fan of liver spread, you can use mashed beans, peanut butter, or a bit of cream cheese for richness. Each option will impart a unique taste but still keep the dish creamy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Can I Make Caldereta in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! Just follow the same steps for sautéing the aromatics and searing the beef, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours until the beef is tender. Enjoy a hands-off approach to this delicious meal!
