Beef pares is a beloved Filipino dish that combines savory and sweet flavors in a delicious, tender beef stew. This beef pares recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful meals. The rich taste of the beef, combined with the aromatic broth, makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving something comforting, beef pares is an excellent choice.
Choosing the Right Main Ingredient
Selecting the right cut of beef is crucial for achieving the perfect beef pares. The best cut for this recipe is beef brisket. It has the right amount of fat and connective tissue, which breaks down during cooking to create a tender and flavorful dish. Look for brisket with good marbling to ensure a juicy and delicious outcome. Avoid lean cuts, as they can become tough and dry when cooked for long periods.
Seasoning Questions
When it comes to seasoning, the key ingredients for beef pares are soy sauce, star anise, garlic, and onion. These components work together to create the dish’s signature flavor profile. The soy sauce adds a deep umami taste, while the star anise provides a subtle licorice note. Garlic and onion bring depth and aroma to the dish. For an extra layer of flavor, you can also add ginger and Knorr Beef Cube. These seasonings enhance the beef’s natural taste, making each bite truly delightful.
Recommended Cooking Equipment and How to Use Effectively
To cook beef pares effectively, you’ll need the right equipment. Here’s what you’ll need and how to use it:
- Pressure Cooker: This is essential for tenderizing the beef quickly. A pressure cooker reduces cooking time significantly while ensuring the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: If you don’t have a pressure cooker, a large pot or Dutch oven will work. It allows for even cooking and can hold all the ingredients comfortably.
- Sauté Pan: Use this for browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics. Browning the beef first enhances the flavor of the dish.
- Cutting Board and Knife: These are necessary for preparing the beef and vegetables. Ensure your knife is sharp for efficient chopping.
Comprehensive Beef Pares Recipe
Beef Pares Recipe
Beef Pares Recipe is a delightful and comforting dish that brings warmth to any meal. The tender beef, rich broth, and aromatic flavors create an unforgettable experience. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe captures the essence of Filipino cuisine, making every bite a truly satisfying pleasure.
Ingredients
- 1 kg beef brisket, cut into cubes
- 1 Knorr Beef Cube
- 2 star anise
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation:
- Season the beef brisket cubes with salt and pepper.
- Prepare all the ingredients by mincing the garlic, chopping the onion, and slicing the ginger.
Browning the Beef:
- In a large sauté pan, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef brisket cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Brown the beef on all sides to lock in the flavor. Remove and set aside.
Sautéing the Aromatics:
- In the same pan, add the garlic, onion, and ginger. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Pressure Cooker Method:
- Transfer the sautéed aromatics and browned beef to the pressure cooker.
- Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, Knorr Beef Cube, star anise, and water. Stir well to combine.
- Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes.
Traditional Method:
- If using a large pot or Dutch oven, add the sautéed aromatics and browned beef back into the pot.
- Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, Knorr Beef Cube, star anise, and water. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Final Touches:
- Once the beef is tender, remove the star anise.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped scallions before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 450Total Fat: 25gSodium: 950mgCarbohydrates: 15gFiber: 1gProtein: 30g
Serving Suggestions and Suitable Side Dishes
Beef pares is traditionally served with sinangag (garlic fried rice) and a light beef soup. The combination of the flavorful beef pares with the savory rice and the comforting soup creates a well-balanced meal. Here are some side dishes that pair well with beef pares:
- Sinangag (Garlic Fried Rice): The garlicky flavor of sinangag complements the rich taste of beef pares perfectly.
- Simple Beef Broth: Use the beef bones to create a light, flavorful broth that serves as a side soup.
- Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed vegetables adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef pares.
Cooking Tips
- Tenderizing the Beef: If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can use a slow cooker for a similar tenderizing effect. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Enhancing Flavor: Marinate the beef brisket in soy sauce and garlic for a few hours before cooking to deepen the flavor.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the beef pares. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: When browning the beef, do not overcrowd the pan. This prevents proper browning and can lead to steaming instead.
- Skipping the Sauté: Don’t skip sautéing the aromatics. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the dish.
- Not Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste and adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking to ensure the flavors are balanced.
Conclusion
Beef pares is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With this easy-to-follow beef pares recipe, you can create a hearty meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to choose the right ingredients, use the proper equipment, and follow the cooking tips for the best results. Enjoy your flavorful beef pares with garlic fried rice and a simple beef broth for a truly satisfying meal.
Let me know if you have any questions or need further assistance!
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I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.