Beef Nilaga is a beloved Filipino dish that brings comfort and warmth in every spoonful. This simple yet flavorful soup is made with tender beef ribs simmered with potatoes, cabbage, and aromatic spices. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, providing both nourishment and a rich, savory taste. The natural flavors of the beef blend beautifully with the vegetables, making this dish a staple in many Filipino homes. Ready to try this authentic Filipino recipe? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
For the Beef Nilaga:
- 2 pounds beef ribs
- 8 cups water
- 2 beef broth cubes
- 1 large onion, peeled and quartered
- 1 teaspoon peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (Patis)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 small cabbage, cut into wedges
- Salt, to taste
- Green onions, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- In a large pot, add the beef ribs and pour enough water to cover the meat.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts to boil, remove the scum that rises to the surface. This step helps to ensure a clear and clean broth.
- Turn the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef becomes tender.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
- Add the onion (quartered) and peppercorns into the pot with the beef. Let the flavors infuse into the broth by continuing to simmer for another 20 minutes.
Step 3: Enhance the Flavor
- Add the beef broth cubes to the pot, mixing well until they dissolve completely into the broth. This will enhance the richness of the soup.
- Stir in the fish sauce (patis) to season the broth. Fish sauce adds depth and umami to the soup, making it more flavorful. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
- Add the quartered potatoes into the pot and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the cabbage wedges and continue simmering for another 4 minutes or until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Garnishing
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt or additional fish sauce if needed.
- Once the soup is ready, turn off the heat and garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh finish.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Beef Nilaga hot with a side of patis-calamansi dipping sauce and steamed rice. The combination of the savory broth, tender beef, and vegetables makes this a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Helpful Tips:
- Adding More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn on the cob, saba bananas, or string beans to make the dish even heartier.
- Broth Variations: If you prefer a more intense broth, you can add a small amount of ginger or a dash of soy sauce to enhance the flavor.
- Slow Cooking: For an even richer broth, you can slow-cook the beef ribs for 2-3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 18g
- Protein: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Yes! While beef ribs give the best flavor, you can substitute with beef shank or beef brisket if preferred.
Is Beef Nilaga spicy?
No, Beef Nilaga is a mild, comforting soup. However, if you prefer a bit of heat, you can add sliced chili peppers to the soup for a spicy kick.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, Beef Nilaga tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Beef Nilaga is a simple yet comforting Filipino soup that’s perfect for any season. The tender beef, savory broth, and fresh vegetables make this dish a wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with family and friends, Beef Nilaga is sure to bring joy to your table.