Kare-Kare is a Filipino oxtail stew with a rich peanut sauce. It’s a popular and flavorful dish that often includes vegetables and is typically served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) on the side. Here’s a comprehensive guide to cooking Kare-Kare:
Ingredients:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs oxtail, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 lb tripe, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces (optional)
- 2 eggplants, sliced
- 1 bundle string beans (sitaw), cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 banana heart (puso ng saging), sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1 large onion, peeled and sliced
- 1 head garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon annatto seeds (achuete)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (patis)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Stock:
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 head garlic, smashed
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oxtail and Tripe:
- Boil the oxtail and tripe in a large pot with enough water until tender. Skim off any scum that rises to the surface.
- Once tender, drain the meat and set aside. Keep the broth for later use.
2. Make the Annatto Oil:
- In a small pan, heat cooking oil and add annatto seeds. Cook until the oil turns red. Strain the seeds and set the oil aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, sauté garlic and onions in annatto oil until fragrant.
4. Add the Oxtail and Tripe:
- Add the boiled oxtail and tripe to the pot. Cook for a few minutes.
5. Make the Peanut Sauce:
- Dilute peanut butter in a cup of the reserved broth. Add the diluted peanut butter to the pot, stirring continuously.
6. Pour in the Broth:
- Add the remaining broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Add Vegetables:
- Add eggplants, string beans, and banana heart. Simmer until the vegetables are tender.
8. Season and Adjust:
- Season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper according to your taste preference.
9. Serve:
- Once everything is cooked and well-seasoned, transfer the Kare-Kare to a serving dish.
10. Serve with Bagoong:
- Serve with bagoong on the side. It adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
Enjoy your homemade Kare-Kare! This Filipino classic is best served with steamed rice and is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.