Kare- Kare
A true Pinoy favorite! Kare-kare is a rich, creamy peanut stew with oxtail or beef and fresh gulay. Best paired with bagoong on the side. Comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients
- 4 cups water or beef broth
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky
- 2 tbsp annatto powder (atsuette)
- 2 tbsp toasted rice flour (for thickening)
- 4 small eggplant
- 1 bunch bok choy (pechay)
- optional: sitaw/long beans and banana heart
- 1 salt and pepper to taste
- bagoong shrimp paste
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Heat oil in a large pot. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add meat of choice and sear lightly. Pour in water or broth, then simmer until meat is tender (about 45–60 minutes).
- In a separate bowl, dissolve peanut butter in a cup of broth from the pot. Stir back into the stew.
- Add annatto powder for color. Stir well.
- Mix in toasted rice flour to thicken. Adjust salt and pepper.
- Vegetable options:
- Option A: Add eggplant first, then bok choy (and optional sitaw/banana heart) directly into the pot for a mixed stew.
- Option B: Boil or steam vegetables separately, then plate and pour the sauce over them when serving.
- Serve hot with bagoong and a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
Do’s:
- Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
- Toast rice flour before adding for a richer taste.
- Serve with bagoong—it completes the dish.
- Don’t rush the simmering; tender meat takes time.
- Don’t overload with vegetables—stick to what’s fresh and available.