Beef Caldereta

Story behind the dish

There’s a comforting magic in Filipino cuisine, where bold flavors come together in a rich, hearty stew called Beef Caldereta. Imagine tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection, infused with savory tomato and peanut notes, all crowned with vibrant peppers and perfectly fried potatoes and carrots. This dish has long been a favorite during special gatherings or family dinners, transforming simple ingredients into a celebration of warmth and shared stories around the table.

The beauty of Caldereta lies in its versatility — a symphony of flavors that can be adjusted to your taste. It’s a dish that brings people together, filling the home with enticing aromas and creating moments to savor. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or making it your family’s tradition, this recipe invites you to share a piece of the Philippines’ hearty culinary heart.

Ingredients

• 4.5 lbs (2 kg) beef, cut into cubes
• 1 beef cube or beef stock cube
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 cups water
• 1 green pepper, sliced
• 1 red pepper, sliced
• 1 potato, sliced
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 8 oz (227 g) tomato puree
• 3 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 onion, chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

Step-by-step

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
2. Add the beef cubes to the pot. Cook until the outer parts turn a light brown.
3. Pour in the soy sauce. Add the tomato puree and water. Bring to a boil.
4. Drop in the beef cube or stock cube. Cover the pot and cook under pressure for about 30 minutes until the beef is tender.
5. While the beef cooks, pan-fry the sliced carrot and potato until they turn golden brown. Set aside.
6. Once the beef is ready, stir in the chili powder, peanut butter, and liver spread (if using). Mix well to combine the flavors.
7. Add the sliced bell peppers, fried potato, and carrot into the pot. Cover and continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes to let the flavors meld.
8. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot, ideally with steamed rice.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an extra layer of flavor, toss in a splash of vinegar or Worcestershire sauce before serving.
• Serve this hearty Caldereta with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Closing thoughts

Cooking Beef Caldereta is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a warm, communal experience. Each spoonful offers a taste of Filipino hospitality, filled with rich flavors and colorful vegetables. As the aroma fills your kitchen, remember that this dish is a celebration of tradition, love, and the joy of sharing a comforting, homemade feast with loved ones.