Is there anything more comforting than a rich and hearty stew that warms you from the inside out? Today, I am delighted to share with you a delightful recipe that will transport you to the flavors of the Philippines – Kare Kare! A traditional Filipino dish, Kare Kare is a flavorful oxtail stew simmered in a thick and savory peanut sauce. It’s a dish that is perfect for cozy nights at home, and I’m excited to guide you through creating this delicious masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Title: Kare Kare Recipe Filipino Oxtail Peanut Stew
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds oxtail, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1 cup ground toasted rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 4-5 cups beef broth
– 1 eggplant, sliced
– 1 bundle string beans, cut into 2-inch lengths
– 1 banana heart, sliced
– 2 tablespoons annatto seeds (achuete)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fish sauce (patis), for seasoning
– Oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add oil, then sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
2. Add the oxtail pieces to the pot and sear them until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the beef broth, making sure the oxtail is fully submerged. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 2-3 hours or until the oxtail is fork-tender.
4. While the oxtail is simmering, prepare the peanut sauce. In a separate pan, toast the ground rice until golden brown. Set aside.
5. In the same pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the annatto seeds and let them sizzle until the oil turns red. Remove the seeds and discard them, leaving the oil in the pan.
6. Add the peanut butter to the pan with the annatto-infused oil. Stir and cook until the peanut butter slightly darkens in color.
7. Gradually add the beef broth from the oxtail pot to the peanut butter mixture, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
8. Once the oxtail is tender, add the peanut sauce to the pot, stirring well to combine. Allow it to simmer together for another 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
9. Add the eggplant, string beans, and banana heart to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender but still have a slight bite.
10. Season with salt, pepper, and fish sauce to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
11. Serve the Kare Kare hot with steamed rice on the side. Enjoy the savory flavors of this traditional Filipino dish!
Creating Kare Kare is a labor of love that results in a dish that everyone will adore. The tender oxtail, creamy peanut sauce, and assortment of vegetables come together beautifully to create a symphony of flavors. Whether you’re trying this recipe for the first time or recreating a beloved family tradition, Kare Kare is sure to become a favorite in your home. Warm, comforting, and undeniably delicious, this Filipino oxtail peanut stew is a culinary experience that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
