Filipino Beef Caldereta (Traditional Filipino Beef Stew)
Description
Filipino Beef Caldereta is a rich, hearty, and flavorful traditional Filipino stew made with tender beef chunks, potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, green olives, and a delicious tomato-based sauce. Liver spread and cheese add extra richness and depth to the sauce. Slowly simmered until the beef is perfectly tender, this comforting dish is perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 2 hours (or longer)
Cook Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (excluding extended marinating)
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
For the beef marinade:
2½ lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp white vinegar
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
For the stew:
4 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tsp fish sauce
½ tsp red chili flakes
3 cups beef broth
1 tbsp brown sugar
2 bay leaves
3 tbsp liver spread or liver paste
¼ cup pitted green olives
1 cup frozen green peas
½ cup grated cheddar cheese
1 small green bell pepper, cubed
1 small red bell pepper, cubed
Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef: In a large bowl, combine beef chunks, soy sauce, white vinegar, and chopped garlic. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or a few hours for better flavor.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large heavy pot. Add potatoes and carrots, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
3. Brown the Beef: Add the remaining oil to the same pot. Remove excess marinade from the beef and sear the chunks on all sides until browned. Cook in batches if necessary.
4. Cook the Aromatics: Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and the remaining marinade. Cook for about 1 minute.
5. Add Tomato Flavor: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 3–4 minutes. Add tomato sauce, fish sauce, and red chili flakes. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Simmer the Beef: Pour in beef broth. Add brown sugar, bay leaves, and liver spread. Stir until combined and bring to a gentle boil.
7. Cook Until Tender: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1½–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef becomes fork-tender.
8. Add Vegetables: Return the browned potatoes and carrots to the pot. Add green olives and cook for approximately 15 minutes until the vegetables are nearly tender.
9. Make It Rich and Creamy: Add frozen green peas and grated cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
10. Add Bell Peppers: Stir in green and red bell peppers. Cook for another 5 minutes until slightly tender but still colorful.
11. Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and black pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves.
12. Serve: Let the stew rest for a few minutes, then serve warm with freshly cooked rice.
Healthy Benefits
Beef provides protein, iron, and vitamin B12.
Carrots provide beta-carotene and vitamin A.
Potatoes provide potassium and carbohydrates for energy.
Bell peppers contain vitamin C and antioxidants.
Green peas provide fiber and plant-based protein.
Tomatoes contain beneficial antioxidants.
Pro Tips
Use beef chuck roast for tender, flavorful results.
Marinate the beef ahead of time for deeper flavor.
Brown the beef in batches to develop a rich flavor.
Cook tomato paste for a few minutes to enhance its taste.
Add bell peppers near the end to prevent them from becoming mushy.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little beef broth.
Liver spread is traditional, but you can omit it if unavailable.
Frequency
Enjoy this hearty beef stew occasionally as part of a balanced diet. Serve with vegetables and a moderate portion of rice.
Q/A
Q: What is Filipino Beef Caldereta?
A: It is a traditional Filipino beef stew cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with vegetables and seasonings.
Q: Can I make Caldereta without liver spread?
A: Yes! You can skip it, although it adds traditional richness and flavor.
Q: Can I use another type of meat?
A: Absolutely! Chicken, pork, goat, or lamb can also be used.
Q: How do I make the beef extra tender?
A: Cook it slowly over low heat until it becomes fork-tender.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Caldereta tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed white rice.
Pair with garlic fried rice.
Add a fresh cucumber and tomato salad.
Serve with warm dinner rolls.
Garnish with fresh parsley for extra color.
Variations
Spicy Caldereta: Add fresh red chilies or extra chili flakes.
Creamy Caldereta: Add coconut milk for a creamy texture.
Chicken Caldereta: Replace beef with chicken thighs.
Vegetarian Caldereta: Use mushrooms, eggplant, chickpeas, and vegetable broth.
Extra Cheesy Caldereta: Add more cheddar cheese for a richer sauce.
Pork Caldereta: Use pork shoulder instead of beef.
Related Recipe Ideas
Filipino Chicken Adobo
Filipino Pork Menudo
Beef Mechado
Classic Beef Stew
Garlic Butter Beef Bites
Slow Cooker Beef and Potatoes
Filipino Beef Kare-Kare
Final Thought
Filipino Beef Caldereta is the perfect comfort food for anyone who loves rich sauces, tender meat, and hearty vegetables. Every bite is packed with delicious flavor, making it a wonderful meal to share with family and friends!
