Kare-Kare Recipe

Experience the rich flavors of the Philippines with our Kare-Kare Recipe – a hearty stew made with tender oxtail, tripe, and vegetables in a rich peanut sauce. This dish originated in pre-colonial times and reflects the unique blend of Spanish and indigenous traditions in Filipino cuisine, making it a true culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs oxtail, cut into segments
• 1 lb tripe (optional), cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 eggplants, sliced diagonally
• 1 bunch of string beans (about 10-12 pieces), cut into 2-inch lengths
• 1 small banana flower bud (heart), sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup ground toasted rice
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 5 cups water
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• Fish sauce (patis) or salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• Bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) for serving
• 2-3 tablespoons annatto seeds (achuete) soaked in 1/4 cup water (for coloring, optional)
• *Alternative for peanuts: Kare Kare Powder Mix

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onion until aromatic and translucent.
2. Add the oxtail and tripe (if using) to the pot. Cook until they start to brown and release their juices.
3. Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan. Remove any impurities that float to the surface.
4. Reduce the heat to a low setting and cover the pot. Cook for about 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender. A pressure cooker can also be used to reduce cooking time.
5. Once the meat is tender, add the peanut butter and ground toasted rice to the pot. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. If using annatto seeds for coloring, strain the soaked ones to get the colored liquid. Pour this into the pot and mix well.
7. Add the eggplants, string beans, and banana flower (if using) to the pot. Simmer until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
8. To taste, season the stew with fish sauce (patis) or salt and ground black pepper. Seasoning can be adjusted to your liking.
9. On the side, serve the Kare-Kare hot with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste). It’s typically served with steamed rice.

Kare-Kare is a traditional Filipino dish with tender meat, vegetables, and a thick and flavorful peanut sauce. It is typically served during special occasions and is a satisfying and comforting meal.