Discover the rich, hearty flavors of Beef Mechado, a traditional Filipino stew made with tender beef, tomatoes, and vegetables. Perfect for family meals or special occasions!
Ingredients
For the Beef Mechado:
- 2 lbs beef (chuck or brisket), cut into 2-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 2 medium carrots, cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Beef
- In a large bowl, combine the beef cubes, soy sauce, and calamansi juice.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
2️⃣ Sear the Beef
- Heat cooking oil in a pot over medium-high heat.
- Remove the beef from the marinade and sear until browned on all sides. Set aside.
3️⃣ Sauté Aromatics
- In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed.
- Sauté the garlic and onion until softened and fragrant.
4️⃣ Build the Base
- Add the tomato paste to the pot and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to remove its raw taste.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and paprika.
5️⃣ Simmer the Stew
- Return the seared beef to the pot. Add beef broth, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6️⃣ Add the Vegetables
- Add the potatoes, carrots, and red bell pepper to the pot.
- Simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
7️⃣ Adjust the Seasoning
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or soy sauce if needed.
8️⃣ Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve hot with steamed white rice for the perfect Filipino meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Beef Mechado
- Beef Choice: Chuck or brisket works best for mechado due to their marbling, which makes the stew flavorful and tender.
- Thick Sauce: For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
- Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: ~30 g
- Carbohydrates: ~25 g
- Fat: ~20 g
- Fiber: ~4 g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beef Mechado is a comforting Filipino stew with tender meat and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply a hearty meal on a cold day.
Conclusion
Beef Mechado is more than just a dish; it’s a taste of home and tradition. Try this easy-to-follow recipe for a satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table.
Share this recipe and bring Filipino flavors to your loved ones!