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Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This step seals in the flavor and gives the meat a rich color. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and soft. Then add the chopped tomatoes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices.
3. Simmer the Meat
Return the browned beef to the pot and stir to combine with the onion, garlic, and tomato mixture. Add the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and beef broth (or water). Stir everything together, then add the bay leaves and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and fully cooked. You may need to add more water or broth during the cooking process to keep the beef covered and prevent it from drying out.
4. Add the Vegetables
While the beef is simmering, heat a little oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Fry the potato and carrot slices until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes for each side. This step helps the vegetables maintain their texture when added to the stew.
Once the beef is tender, add the fried potatoes and carrots to the pot. Stir to combine, and let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are cooked through. You can also add the bell pepper at this point for an extra burst of color and flavor, or skip it if you prefer a more traditional version of the dish.
5. Finish the Dish
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning, adding sugar if the dish needs a little more balance or extra salt and pepper if needed. Once everything is tender and the flavors have melded together, remove the bay leaves.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Beef Mechado hot with steamed rice on the side. The savory, rich sauce pairs perfectly with the soft, tender beef and vegetables, making for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love Simple Beef Mechado
Hearty and Filling:
The tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and hearty vegetables make this dish perfect for those who want a filling and comforting meal. It’s a great choice for family dinners or special occasions.
Simple to Make:
Though it may look like a dish that requires complex preparation, Beef Mechado is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that’s packed with flavor and sure to satisfy.
Balanced Flavors:
The combination of soy sauce, fish sauce, tomatoes, and beef broth creates a savory, slightly tangy sauce that perfectly complements the rich, tender beef. The added sweetness from the optional sugar balances the flavors and brings everything together.
Versatile:
While the traditional Beef Mechado includes potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers, you can easily customize the dish by adding other vegetables such as peas, string beans, or even mushrooms for a different twist.
Perfect for Leftovers:
Beef Mechado actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop and deepen. It’s a perfect meal to make in advance and reheat for lunch or dinner the following day.
Tips for the Best Beef Mechado
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef: For the best flavor and tenderness, use cuts of beef that benefit from slow cooking, like chuck or brisket. These cuts become tender and flavorful when simmered for a long time.
- Don’t Skip the Browning Step: Browning the beef before simmering adds a depth of flavor to the dish. It helps the meat develop a rich, savory taste that’s key to the dish’s overall flavor profile.
- Adjust the Consistency of the Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick as it simmers, feel free to add a bit more beef broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. The sauce should be rich and flavorful but not too dry.
- Customize the Vegetables: While potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers are traditional, feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Adding peas, green beans, or even sweet potatoes can give the dish a fresh twist.
- Serve with Steamed Rice: Beef Mechado is typically served with a bowl of steamed rice to soak up all the delicious sauce. For a healthier option, you can serve it with brown rice or cauliflower rice.
Final Thoughts
Simple Beef Mechado is a flavorful, comforting Filipino dish that’s easy to make and full of rich, savory flavors. With tender beef simmered in a tangy tomato-based sauce and paired with hearty vegetables, it’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special gathering, Beef Mechado will leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll quickly see why this classic Filipino dish is a favorite in many homes!
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