beef pares recipe
Beef pares is a classic Filipino dish that features tender beef simmered in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners and packed with umami flavors.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef brisket or chuck cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 cup banana ketchup
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp fish sauce optional
- 1 tsp annatto seeds or powder
- 1 tbsp calamansi juice or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
- Optional: chili paste
- Optional: star anise
- Optional: coconut milk
Instructions
- Slice the beef into cubes and marinate in soy sauce, calamansi juice, garlic, and black pepper for 2–4 hours (or overnight for best flavor).
- Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the marinated beef (reserve the marinade) and brown on all sides.
- Pour in beef broth and the reserved marinade.
- Add banana ketchup, brown sugar, and annatto powder.
- Optional: Add fish sauce, star anise, or coconut milk for extra depth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender.
- If sauce thickens too much, add a bit of water or broth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Optional: Stir in chili paste for a spicy version.
- Serve hot over garlic rice or with steamed vegetables.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, microgreens, or a squeeze of calamansi.