There’s something truly special about Kare Kare. The rich aroma wafting through your kitchen, the vibrant colors of the vegetables, and the creamy peanut sauce all come together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to bring smiles and nostalgia to the table. And the best part? It’s easier to make than you might think!
Why You’ll Love Kare Kare – Guest Post by Ang Sarap
- Fast: You can have the main components prepped and in the oven in about 20 minutes.
- Easy: It’s a simple “brown and bake” method that even beginner cooks can master.
- Giftable: This is a sturdy dish that travels well, making it perfect for potlucks or as a “get well soon” meal.
- Crowd-pleasing: Even people who think they don’t like cabbage usually fall in love with this creamy, cheesy version!
Ingredients
- 1 kg oxtail (or beef shank) – The star of the dish, giving it that rich flavor.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter – For that creamy, nutty goodness that makes Kare Kare so special.
- 1/4 cup ground rice – This adds thickness to the sauce, making it velvety.
- 1 onion, chopped – Essential for building flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Because who doesn’t love garlic?
- 1/2 tsp annatto seeds – For that beautiful orange color and subtle flavor.
- 1/4 cup shrimp paste (bagoong) – This adds a salty umami punch that complements the dish perfectly.
- 4 cups water – To create the broth.
- 1 cup banana heart, sliced – A traditional ingredient that adds a unique texture.
- 1 cup eggplant, sliced – A favorite vegetable that cooks down beautifully.
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed – For a pop of color and crunch.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- Cooking oil – For sautéing the aromatics.
How to Make Kare Kare – Guest Post by Ang Sarap
Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s get cooking!
- In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the oxtail and brown on all sides, letting those savory flavors develop.
- Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender.
- Once the oxtail is tender, remove it from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth and reserve it.
- In the same pot, heat a little more oil and add the annatto seeds. Cook until the oil turns a vibrant orange.
- Stir in the peanut butter and ground rice, then slowly add the reserved broth, stirring to combine.
- Return the oxtail to the pot and simmer for about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the banana heart, eggplant, and green beans. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot with shrimp paste on the side, and enjoy!
Substitutions & Additions
Feel free to get creative! Here are some ideas:
- If you can’t find oxtail, beef shank works wonderfully as a substitute.
- For a vegetarian version, try using tofu or mushrooms instead of meat.
- Want more veggies? Add some bok choy or leafy greens for extra nutrition.
- Try swapping the shrimp paste with soy sauce for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Kare Kare turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Make sure to brown the meat well; this adds depth of flavor.
- Don’t rush the simmering process; tender meat is key for the best texture.
- If your sauce is too thick, simply add a bit more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- You can prepare the broth ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight for enhanced flavors.
How to Store Kare Kare – Guest Post by Ang Sarap
Storing your delicious Kare Kare is super easy:
- Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!
FAQs
- Can I use other meats for Kare Kare? Absolutely! Pork or chicken can also be used.
- What can I serve with Kare Kare? Steamed rice is a classic pairing, and don’t forget the shrimp paste!
- Can I make Kare Kare in advance? Yes, it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together!
And there you have it! A beautiful bowl of Kare Kare that will surely impress your family and friends. For more delicious recipes, check out this easy fruitcake recipe or this heartwarming Oyakodon recipe for treats you will love!
Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more delightful cooking inspiration!
Delicious Kare Kare: A Heartwarming Filipino Classic
There’s something truly special about Kare Kare. The rich aroma wafting through your kitchen, the vibrant colors of the vegetables, and the creamy peanut sauce all come together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to bring smiles and nostalgia to the table. And the best part? It’s easier to make than you might think!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Step 2: Add the oxtail and brown on all sides, letting those savory flavors develop.
- Step 3: Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender.
- Step 4: Once the oxtail is tender, remove it from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth and reserve it.
- Step 5: In the same pot, heat a little more oil and add the annatto seeds. Cook until the oil turns a vibrant orange.
- Step 6: Stir in the peanut butter and ground rice, then slowly add the reserved broth, stirring to combine.
- Step 7: Return the oxtail to the pot and simmer for about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 8: Add the banana heart, eggplant, and green beans. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Step 9: Serve hot with shrimp paste on the side, and enjoy!
Notes
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!