Filipino Beef Caldereta is a comforting stew that warms the heart. It features tender beef cooked slowly with tomatoes, potatoes, and carrots, all simmered in a rich and flavorful sauce.
This dish has a delightful mix of spices that makes every bite a treat! I love serving it over rice—it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, just like a warm hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for slow cooking since it becomes tender over time. If you need a substitute, you could use brisket or round roast. Just keep in mind that different cuts may change the texture slightly.
Liver Spread: Liver is essential for that traditional flavor. If you prefer not to use liver or need it for dietary reasons, try using mushroom pâté for a similar texture or omit it altogether. Add a bit of extra cheese for creaminess.
Cheddar Cheese: Grated cheddar gives a nice creaminess and flavor. If you want a different cheese, consider using a mild cheese like Monterey Jack or even a processed cheese for smoother melting.
Vegetables: You can swap potatoes and carrots with other veggies like sweet potatoes or parsnips. Feel free to include any other vegetables you enjoy, as this dish is quite flexible!
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add great flavor, but if they’re not in season, canned tomatoes or tomato sauce work just as well. You can even use a combination of the two!
How Can I Make Sure My Beef is Tender?
To get tender beef in Caldereta, the cooking process is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by browning the beef cubes well to lock in juices and flavor.
- Simmer the beef gently. High heat makes it tough, so keep it low and slow.
- Be patient! Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the beef to become fork-tender.
- Add liquid as needed during cooking to keep everything moist and prevent it from burning.
By following these tips, you’re sure to have juicy, tender beef in your Caldereta every time! Enjoy this delicious dish with family or friends!
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
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped or 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1/2 cup liver spread or liver pâté
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 cup green peas or green beans, chopped
- 1/4 cup olives (optional)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1-2 pcs bay leaves
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 stalks green onions, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes to prepare and roughly 2 hours to cook. The slow, simmering process allows the beef to become meltingly tender, making it well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or deep pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become fragrant and the onions are translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the beef cubes to the pot. Brown them well on all sides; this step will help seal in the flavors. Make sure to stir occasionally to avoid burning.
3. Add Tomatoes:
Next, incorporate the chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce into the pot. Cook this mixture for 3-5 minutes, stirring often until the tomatoes soften.
4. Simmer the Beef:
Pour in the beef broth or water, add the bay leaves, and soy sauce. Stir everything together, bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently.
5. Cook Until Tender:
Cover the pot and let the beef simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it’s tender. Stir occasionally, and be sure to add more water if it looks like it’s getting dry.
6. Enrich the Sauce:
Once the beef is tender, add the liver spread and grated cheddar cheese. Stir this into the sauce until well combined and to your desired creamy consistency.
7. Add Vegetables:
Stir in the potato and carrot chunks. Let them cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
8. Finish with Peppers and Beans:
Add the red and green bell peppers, green peas or green beans, and olives if you’re using them. Simmer the whole dish for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
9. Season to Taste:
Finally, season the stew with sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust any of these to suit your preference.
10. Serve It Up:
Remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaves. Garnish the dish with chopped green onions before serving. Serve it hot with steamed white rice for a complete meal!
Enjoy every delicious bite of your Filipino Beef Caldereta, a hearty dish perfect for loving gatherings or a cozy dinner at home!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat for Caldereta?
Yes, you can! While beef chuck is ideal for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use brisket or round roast. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the cut you choose.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Simply sauté the onions and garlic in a pan first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours until the beef is tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to the freezer!
What Can I Serve with Beef Caldereta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice. For a fuller meal, consider serving it with a side of garlic fried rice or even crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!