Kare Kare Filipino Dish Recipe

Mak Erot

4 min read

·

Mar 30, 2025

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Kare-Kare: A Filipino Feast in Every Bowl

Kare-Kare, a rich and savory Filipino stew, is a culinary masterpiece that's both comforting and incredibly flavorful. This peanut-based dish is a true testament to Filipino cuisine's unique blend of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy notes. It's a dish that's perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight meal. Let's dive into the recipe and uncover the secrets to making a truly authentic Kare-Kare.

Ingredients for Authentic Filipino Kare-Kare

This recipe yields about 6 servings. Adjust accordingly depending on your needs.

• For the Meat:

  • 1 kg oxtail (or beef shank, for a more tender version) – Choose a cut with good marbling for maximum flavor.
  • 2 tbsp cooking oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, minced
  • 2-3 pcs star anise (optional, for added depth)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Peanut Sauce:

  • 1 cup roasted peanuts (unsalted) – Roasted peanuts provide a richer, more intense flavor.
  • 2 cups water (plus more if needed for consistency)
  • 1 cup shrimp paste (bagoong alamang) – This is key for the umami flavor; adjust to your preference for saltiness.
  • 1/2 cup annatto oil (atsuete oil) – Provides a vibrant orange color and slightly nutty taste.
  • 2-3 tbsp fish sauce (patis) – For added umami and saltiness; again, adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (toyo) – Balances the flavors.
  • 2 tbsp sugar – To balance the saltiness and add a hint of sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp ground black pepper

• For the Vegetables:

  • 1 bunch kangkong (water spinach) – Adds a pleasant bitterness that complements the richness of the sauce.
  • 1 cup long beans (sitaw), cut into 2 inch pieces – Adds texture and vibrant green color.
  • 1 cup eggplant (talong), sliced – Adds a unique texture and slight sweetness.

Step-by-Step Kare-Kare Recipe

Preparing the Meat:

1. Boil the Oxtail: Rinse the oxtail thoroughly and place it in a large pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Simmer for at least 1-2 hours, or until the meat is tender. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during boiling. This removes impurities and results in a cleaner-tasting broth.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a separate pot or pan, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant and slightly softened. Add star anise (if using).
3. Combine Meat and Aromatics: Add the pre-boiled and slightly cooled oxtail to the pot with the sautéed aromatics.

Making the Peanut Sauce:

1. Blend Peanuts: In a blender, combine the roasted peanuts, water, shrimp paste, annatto oil, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more water if necessary to reach your desired consistency.

Combining Everything:

1. Combine Sauce and Meat: Pour the peanut sauce over the oxtail in the pot. Bring to a simmer and allow it to cook for another 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Add Vegetables: Add the kangkong, long beans, and eggplant. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Do not overcook the vegetables!
3. Season to Taste: Check for seasoning and adjust accordingly. You might need to add more fish sauce, soy sauce, or sugar depending on your preference.

Serving Your Kare-Kare:

Kare-Kare is traditionally served with bagoong alamang (shrimp paste) on the side, along with steamed rice. The contrasting flavors of the rich, creamy sauce and the pungent shrimp paste create an unforgettable taste experience. Garnish with chopped green onions for added freshness.

Tips for the Best Kare-Kare

• Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of Kare-Kare heavily relies on the quality of the ingredients. Use fresh, high-quality peanuts, shrimp paste, and oxtail for the best results.
• Don't be afraid to adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Everyone has different preferences for saltiness and sweetness.
• Patience is key: The longer the oxtail simmers, the more tender it will be. Low and slow cooking is essential.
• Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables, like potatoes or green beans.

Enjoy your homemade Kare-Kare! This recipe is a wonderful way to share a taste of Filipino culture and culinary tradition. Remember to share your culinary creations with your friends and family; food is always better shared!