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“Simple BEEF Mechado “

“Simple BEEF Mechado “

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Instructions

1. Sear the Beef

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the beef chunks and sear on all sides until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add more oil if needed.
  2. Sauté the onions until translucent, then add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until softened.

3. Build the Flavor Base

  1. Return the seared beef to the pot.
  2. Add the tomato sauce, soy sauce, calamansi juice, and bay leaf. Stir to coat the beef evenly.

4. Simmer Until Tender

  1. Pour in the beef broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  2. Cover and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if necessary.

5. Add the Vegetables

  1. Once the beef is tender, add the potatoes, carrots, and red bell peppers to the pot.
  2. Simmer for another 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through.

6. Season and Serve

  1. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  2. Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.

Tips for the Best Beef Mechado

  1. Choose the Right Cut: Use well-marbled cuts like chuck or brisket for tender, flavorful results.
  2. Marinate in Advance: For deeper flavor, marinate the beef in soy sauce and calamansi juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
  3. Don’t Rush the Simmering: Slow cooking ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
  4. Use Fresh Tomatoes: Freshly chopped tomatoes enhance the dish’s natural sweetness and tang.

Variations to Explore

  • Spicy Mechado: Add a chopped chili or a dash of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
  • Vegetable-Rich: Incorporate green beans, peas, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
  • Mechado with Pork: Swap the beef for pork shoulder or a mix of both for a different flavor profile.
  • Coconut Twist: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for a creamier version.

Why This Recipe Works

This Simple Beef Mechado recipe retains the comforting essence of the traditional dish while streamlining preparation and cooking. By using common pantry staples and easy techniques, it ensures you can enjoy the rich, hearty flavors of Mechado without spending hours in the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with steamed white rice or garlic fried rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Add a side of pickled vegetables or atchara (Filipino pickled papaya) to balance the richness.
  • Serve with crusty bread to scoop up every last drop of the sauce.

Conclusion

Beef Mechado is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of warmth, tradition, and Filipino culinary heritage. This simplified version lets you enjoy its robust flavors and hearty textures without fuss. Whether you’re introducing someone to Filipino cuisine or indulging in a nostalgic favorite, this Simple Beef Mechado recipe is a surefire winner.

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