Are you craving a hearty, flavorful Filipino stew that's perfect for a comforting family meal? Look no further than Beef Menudo! This classic dish is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offers a delicious balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both satisfying and relatively quick to prepare – making it a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. This Beef Menudo recipe captures the authentic taste of the Philippines, bringing a taste of home to your kitchen table, or a delightful culinary adventure if you're new to Filipino cuisine.
Ingredients:
This recipe yields about 6-8 servings. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar (white or cane)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon bay leaf
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
- 2-3 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the Beef: Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This step helps to develop a richer flavor in your stew. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Add the potatoes, carrots, green bell pepper, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, black pepper, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine all ingredients.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beef is tender. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. For extra tender beef, consider simmering for 1.5-2 hours.
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Add Eggs (optional): Gently add the hard-boiled eggs during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This adds a delightful protein boost and a lovely visual element to your Menudo.
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Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the Beef Menudo into bowls and garnish with additional chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Beef Menudo:
- Use quality beef: Choosing a good cut of beef will make a big difference in the final result.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Browning the beef in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Taste and adjust: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, vinegar, and brown sugar to your preference.
- Simmer low and slow: This method ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender.
- Make it ahead: Beef Menudo tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect dish for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Spicy Menudo: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a few slices of chili peppers for extra heat.
- Pork Menudo: Substitute pork shoulder or pork belly for the beef. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetable Menudo: Add other vegetables like green beans, peas, or mushrooms.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. This is an estimate:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This easy Beef Menudo recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor. It’s a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!