Philippines
Filipino

Beef Caldereta

Beef Caldereta is a rich and hearty Filipino stew made with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers simmered in a savory tomato sauce infused with spices. It's perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.

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Beef Caldereta

Prep

15 minutes

Cook

1 hour 40 minutes

Level

Medium

Serves

6

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Illustrated cooking guide

Step-by-step visual method

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Beef Caldereta illustrated step-by-step cooking guide

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

  2. 2

    Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.

  3. 3

    Add the beef cubes to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

  4. 4

    Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, soy sauce, ground black pepper, paprika, and bay leaves.

  5. 5

    Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Let it simmer for 1 hour until the beef is tender.

  6. 6

    After an hour, add the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.

  7. 7

    Once the vegetables are tender, add the diced bell pepper and green peas, if using. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

  8. 8

    Taste and season with salt and additional pepper if needed before serving.

Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the beef in soy sauce and garlic overnight before cooking.

Use a pressure cooker for faster cooking time if desired.

Cook smarter

Helpful notes

Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.

Storage Tips

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Substitutions

  • Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different taste.
  • Chicken or pork can be used instead of beef if preferred.

What to Serve With

  • Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.
  • Pair with crusty bread for dipping.

Common Mistakes

  • Not browning the meat properly can lead to a less flavorful result.
  • Skipping the simmering step may result in tougher meat.

Recipe FAQ

What is Beef Caldereta?

Beef Caldereta is a traditional Filipino dish made of beef stew cooked with tomato sauce, vegetables, and spices.

Can I use other meats for Caldereta?

Yes, you can use pork or chicken as a substitute for beef in Caldereta.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Kitchen tools

Helpful Tools for This Recipe

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Blender

Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.

Saucepan

Useful for simmering sauces, soups, grains, and small-batch stews.

Chef knife

A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.

Cutting board

Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.

Measuring spoons

Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.

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