Beef Caldereta is a rich and flavorful Filipino dish that has become a staple in many households and special gatherings.
With its tender meat and fragrant blend of spices, it’s no wonder that this dish is a favorite among many.
As you dive into preparing this delicacy, let’s explore the ingredients and techniques that make it so scrumptious.
Traditionally made with goat meat, beef Caldereta has evolved to suit different tastes by substituting with beef, chicken, or pork.
The savory tomato sauce base is complemented by potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers, while the addition of vinegar, soy sauce, and liver spread or liver paste brings a luscious depth of flavor.
The result is a hearty and mouthwatering stew perfect to share with loved ones.
As you embark on your culinary adventure, don’t be intimidated by the complexity of flavors; instead, embrace your creativity while respecting the heritage of this beloved dish.
With a little patience and attentiveness, you’ll be savoring your own beef Caldereta and impressing friends and family in no time.
How to Make Beef Caldereta
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs tender beef (beef chuck, beef shanks, beef stew meat, or beef brisket), cut into 2-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 carrot, cubed
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
Step-by-step process
Step 1. Prepare the ingredients:
Cut your chosen tender beef into 2-inch cubes.
Chop the onion, mince the garlic, dice the fresh tomatoes, and cube the carrot.
Step 2. Sear the beef:
In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the beef chunks and cook until they are browned on all sides.
This process helps develop the flavor of the Beef Caldereta.
Step 3. Cook the aromatics:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef.
Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 4. Add tomatoes and tomato paste:
Stir in the fresh tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste.
Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the tomatoes have softened and the paste is well incorporated.
Step 5. Add liquids and seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth and add the 2 bay leaves.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and give everything a good stir to combine.
Step 6. Simmer and cook the Beef Caldereta:
Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let the mixture simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
Step 7. Add vegetables:
In the last 30 minutes of cooking time, add the cubed carrots and sliced bell pepper to the pot.
Replace the lid and continue simmering until the vegetables have softened and the flavors have melded.
Step 8. Serve and enjoy:
Once the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked, your Beef Caldereta is ready to serve.
Enjoy it with rice or your favorite side dish.
Side Dishes for Beef Caldereta
When enjoying a delicious Beef Caldereta, having the right side dishes is essential to complement its rich and savory flavors is essential.
Here are a few excellent choices that go perfectly with this Filipino classic:
Steamed Rice
Steamed white rice is the ideal accompaniment for Beef Caldereta, as it helps to absorb the rich and spicy flavors.
The simplicity of plain, steamed rice provides a great balance to the bold flavors of the main dish.
Arroz Valenciana
Arroz Valenciana is a flavorful rice dish with origins in Spain.
Cooked similarly to Arroz a la Valenciana but without saffron, it uses tomato sauce for added color and flavor.
The combination of spices and ingredients in this side dish complements the taste of Beef Caldereta.
Sauteed Vegetables
A side of sautéed vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and potatoes, can add color and nutrition to your Beef Caldereta meal.
The subtle flavors of these vegetables provide a pleasant contrast to the main dish while still enhancing the overall dining experience.
Fresh Salad
A fresh salad is a versatile and healthy side dish that can be tailored to your preferences.
Choose from leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and other vegetables, along with a simple dressing.
The vibrant and refreshing nature of a salad offers a nice contrast to the hearty Beef Caldereta.
How to Store Beef Caldereta
When storing Beef Caldereta, it is essential to follow safe food storage practices to ensure that your dish remains delicious and safe to eat.
To make the most of your leftovers, consider these methods for proper storage, whether using an Instant Pot, pressure cooker, slow cooker, or simply slow cooking on the stove.
Refrigerate:
After cooking your Beef Caldereta, allow it to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
Place in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking.
To maintain the best quality, consume your refrigerated leftovers within 3 to 4 days.
Freeze:
If you don’t plan on eating your leftovers soon, freezing is an excellent option.
Transfer your cooled Beef Caldereta to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top freezer bag.
Be sure to remove any excess air for optimal freshness.
Properly stored, your dish can last up to 2 to 3 months when frozen.
Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are the most common mistakes to avoid when preparing Beef Caldereta:
Not Cutting Ingredients into Uniform Sizes
When preparing ingredients for Beef Caldereta, make sure to cut everything, including beef, carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers, into uniform sizes.
This ensures that all pieces cook evenly and at the same rate.
Using Only a Cup of Water Instead of Beef Broth
Many people might use just a cup of water when cooking the beef, but it’s important to use cups of beef broth for a richer and more flavorful stew.
This adds depth to the overall dish and makes it more delicious.
Inaccurate Seasoning
Seasoning your Beef Caldereta with adequate amounts of black pepper and appropriate amounts of salt helps to balance the richness of the dish.
Taste your Caldereta as you cook, and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
