Kare-Kare

Kare Kare is my Sweet Heart's Favorite Dish

Kare-Kare is a popular Filipino dish that is known for its rich, savory flavor. It is often considered a comfort food and is enjoyed by many Filipinos during special occasions and gatherings. Kare-Kare typically consists of tender beef or oxtail, vegetables, and a thick peanut sauce. The sauce is made from toasted ground peanuts, annatto (achuete) seeds for color, garlic, onions, and other seasonings.

One of the key ingredients in Kare-Kare is bagoong, a fermented shrimp paste that adds a unique and salty flavor to the dish. The combination of the nutty peanut sauce, tender meat, and an assortment of vegetables, such as eggplant, bok choy, and string beans, creates a delicious and hearty dish.

Kare-Kare is commonly served with steamed rice and is often enjoyed with a side of shrimp paste for added flavor. It is a dish that brings people together, as it is traditionally served family-style, allowing everyone to enjoy the different components of the dish.

While Kare-Kare is traditionally made with beef or oxtail, variations of the dish can also include other proteins such as pork, chicken, or seafood. Some people even prefer vegetarian versions, using tofu or other meat substitutes.

Overall, Kare-Kare is a beloved and flavorful dish in Filipino cuisine, showcasing the country's diverse flavors and culinary traditions. Its rich taste and comforting qualities make it a favorite among Filipinos and those who have had the pleasure of trying it.

How to cook Kare kare?

Cooking Kare-Kare requires a few steps to achieve its delicious flavors.

Here's a simplified recipe to guide you:

Ingredients:

- 1 kg of beef (or oxtail) cut into serving pieces

- 2 tablespoons of cooking oil

- 1 onion, chopped

- 4 cloves of garlic, minced

- 3 tablespoons of annatto (achuete) seeds

- 1 cup of peanut butter

- 4 cups of water or beef broth

- 1 eggplant, cut into thick slices

- 1 bundle of bok choy or pechay, ends trimmed

- 1 cup of string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Bagoong (shrimp paste) for serving

- Optional: 1 banana blossom, sliced

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent.

2. Add the beef (or oxtail) to the pot and cook until browned. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

3. Dissolve the annatto seeds in a little bit of water, then pour the mixture into the pot. This will give the dish its characteristic orange color.

4. Add the water or beef broth to the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until the meat is tender. This may take around 1-2 hours, depending on the meat used.

5. Once the meat is tender, add the peanut butter to the pot. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for another 10 minutes.

6. Add the eggplant, bok choy (or pechay), string beans, and optional banana blossom. Simmer until the vegetables are cooked but still slightly crisp.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the peanut butter or water/broth as needed to achieve your desired consistency and flavor.

8. Serve the Kare-Kare hot with steamed rice and a side of bagoong (shrimp paste).

Remember, these are general instructions, and you can always adjust the ingredients and proportions based on your taste preferences.

Enjoy your homemade Kare-Kare!


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