Filipino Beef Caldereta is a hearty dish packed with tender beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce. With carrots, potatoes, and a touch of spicy chili, it’s a flavorful meal perfect for family gatherings.
Served with rice, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Honestly, who can resist that mouthwatering sauce? Just be ready for everyone asking for seconds. 😄 I love making this on weekends—it’s delicious and warms the soul!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect because it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked slowly. You can substitute with brisket or round if chuck isn’t available. Both will still yield delicious results.
Potatoes: They add heartiness. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can use sweet potatoes or even cauliflower for a twist.
Tomato Sauce: This is the base of the dish. If you want a richer flavor, feel free to use crushed tomatoes or tomato paste mixed with a bit of water. You can also use a can of diced tomatoes for added texture.
Liver Spread: Some people love the additional richness it brings. If you’re not a fan, try using a little bit of mushroom puree or omit it entirely. Your dish will still be great!
Bell Peppers: Both red and green peppers add sweetness and color. If you want variety, yellow or orange bell peppers work wonderfully too!
How Do You Make Sure Your Beef is Tender?
One common challenge is ensuring the beef becomes tender. The secret lies in the simmering time. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by browning the beef in hot oil. This helps to seal in juices and add flavor.
- Once browned, add liquid (broth or water) and bring to a boil. Then, immediately lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot!
- Let it simmer slowly for 1.5 to 2 hours. This gives the connective tissue time to break down.
Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally and adding water if it looks too dry. A tight lid also helps keep the moisture in! Your patience will pay off with fork-tender beef.
How to Make Filipino Beef Caldereta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp liver spread or pâté (optional, for richness)
- 2 pcs bay leaves
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1-2 pieces spicy red or green chili (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated cheese (optional, for topping/garnish)
- 2 stalks green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making Beef Caldereta will take approximately 15 minutes for preparation and about 2 hours for cooking, including simmering the beef until tender. Total time: around 2 hours and 15 minutes. So, grab a comfy chair, relax, and let the delicious smells fill your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the cooking oil in a large pot or deep pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant and the onion is translucent and soft—this will take about 3-5 minutes.
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the beef cubes to the pot. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step is important as it locks in the beef’s juices and flavor.
3. Add the Liquid Components:
Stir in the tomato sauce, soy sauce, and add the bay leaves. Then pour in enough beef broth or water to just cover the meat. Give it a good stir!
4. Let It Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on the liquid level, adding more water if needed. The beef should be fork-tender by the end of this stage!
5. Add the Veggies:
Once the beef is tender, it’s time to add the potatoes and carrots to the pot. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, which will give these veggies a head start in cooking.
6. Mix in the Bell Peppers and Peas:
Now, toss in the chunks of bell peppers, green peas, and liver spread if you’re using it. Stir everything to combine well. Let it cook for another 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. Season to Taste:
Don’t forget to season your dish with salt and pepper! If you like a bit of heat, slice up your spicy chili and mix it in.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked and tasty, remove the bay leaves. Serve your delicious Caldereta hot with a generous helping of steamed white rice. You can top it off with sliced green onions and grated cheese if desired!
Enjoy your flavorful and comforting Filipino Beef Caldereta! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. 😊
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is preferred for its tenderness, you can also use brisket or round. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the cut you choose.
How Can I Store Leftover Caldereta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you enjoy heat, you can add more spicy chili or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to your spice preference, and enjoy the extra kick!
What Do I Serve With Beef Caldereta?
This dish is best served over steamed white rice to soak up the rich sauce. You can also accompany it with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal!
