Beef afritada is a popular Filipino dish that is both flavorful and nutritious. It is a type of stew made with beef, vegetables, and tomatoes, cooked in a savory broth. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook beef afritada, including the ingredients, cooking techniques, and tips to make it perfect.
Understanding the Origins of Beef Afritada
Beef afritada is a dish that originated from the Spanish influence in the Philippines. The word “afritada” comes from the Spanish word “fritada,” which means “fried.” However, beef afritada is not just a fried dish, but a stew that is cooked in a combination of oil and liquid. The dish is believed to have been introduced by Spanish colonizers in the Philippines, who brought with them their own cooking techniques and ingredients.
The Evolution of Beef Afritada
Over time, beef afritada has evolved to incorporate local ingredients and cooking techniques. Filipinos have added their own twist to the dish, using ingredients such as patis (fish sauce) and calamansi (Philippine lime) to give it a unique flavor. The dish has also become a staple in many Filipino households, often served during special occasions and celebrations.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To cook beef afritada, you will need the following ingredients and equipment:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef (cut into bite-sized pieces) | 1 pound |
| Onions (chopped) | 2 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 2 medium |
| Potatoes (peeled and cubed) | 2 medium |
| Carrots (peeled and sliced) | 1 medium |
| Green peas | 1 cup |
| Patis (fish sauce) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Calamansi (Philippine lime) | 2 pieces |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Water | 2 cups |
Equipment needed:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Colander or strainer
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
Cooking Techniques and Tips
To cook beef afritada, follow these steps:
Browning the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Sauteing the Onions and Garlic
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pot. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Adding the Tomatoes and Vegetables
Add the chopped tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, and green peas to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
Adding the Beef and Seasonings
Add the browned beef back to the pot, along with the patis, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Adding the Water and Calamansi
Add the water to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes, or until the beef is tender. Add the calamansi juice to the pot and stir well to combine.
Serving
Serve the beef afritada hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of patis, if desired.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to make your beef afritada even better:
Using Different Cuts of Beef
You can use different cuts of beef, such as brisket or shank, to make the dish more tender and flavorful.
Adding Other Vegetables
You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the dish to make it more colorful and nutritious.
Using Different Seasonings
You can use different seasonings, such as soy sauce or oyster sauce, to give the dish a unique flavor.
Serving with Rice
Beef afritada is best served with steamed rice, which helps to soak up the savory broth.
By following these steps and tips, you can make a delicious and authentic beef afritada that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
What is Beef Afritada and where did it originate?
Beef Afritada is a popular Filipino stew made with beef, tomatoes, and vegetables. It is a classic dish that has been a staple in many Filipino households for generations. The dish is believed to have originated from the Spanish influence in the Philippines, with the word “afritada” coming from the Spanish word “fritada,” which means “fried.”
Beef Afritada is a versatile dish that can be cooked in various ways, depending on the region and personal preferences. Some variations may include additional ingredients such as potatoes, bell peppers, or olives. The dish is often served with steamed rice and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
What type of beef is best for Beef Afritada?
The best type of beef for Beef Afritada is a cut that is tender and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. Some popular options include beef brisket, beef shank, or beef short ribs. These cuts are ideal because they are flavorful and become tender when cooked slowly in the stew.
When choosing a cut of beef, look for one that has a good marbling of fat, as this will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful during cooking. Avoid using lean cuts of beef, such as sirloin or tenderloin, as they may become dry and tough when cooked.
How do I prepare the ingredients for Beef Afritada?
To prepare the ingredients for Beef Afritada, start by cutting the beef into bite-sized pieces and seasoning them with salt and pepper. Next, chop the onions, garlic, and tomatoes, and slice the bell peppers and potatoes. Make sure to wash and peel the vegetables thoroughly before chopping them.
It’s also important to prepare the tomato sauce and beef broth in advance. Canned tomato sauce and beef broth can be used, but homemade versions are also an option. Simply cook down fresh tomatoes with some onions and garlic to make a homemade tomato sauce, and use beef bones to make a rich and flavorful beef broth.
What is the cooking process for Beef Afritada?
The cooking process for Beef Afritada involves browning the beef in a pan, then simmering it in a flavorful stew made with tomato sauce, beef broth, and various vegetables. Start by heating oil in a large pan over medium heat, then add the beef and cook until it is browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside, then add the onions, garlic, and tomatoes and cook until they are softened.
Next, add the tomato sauce, beef broth, and browned beef back to the pan, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the stew for at least an hour, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Add the bell peppers and potatoes to the pan during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.
How long does it take to cook Beef Afritada?
The cooking time for Beef Afritada can vary depending on the cut of beef used and the desired level of tenderness. Generally, the stew should be simmered for at least an hour, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. If using a tougher cut of beef, such as beef shank or beef short ribs, the cooking time may be longer, typically 2-3 hours.
It’s also important to note that Beef Afritada can be cooked in advance and refrigerated or frozen for later use. In fact, the flavors of the stew often meld together and become more intense after a day or two, making it a great option for meal prep or special occasions.
Can I cook Beef Afritada in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, Beef Afritada can be cooked in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, which can be a convenient and time-saving option. To cook the stew in a slow cooker, simply brown the beef and cook the vegetables in a pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
To cook the stew in an Instant Pot, brown the beef and cook the vegetables in the pot, then add the tomato sauce, beef broth, and browned beef to the pot. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 30-40 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
How do I serve Beef Afritada?
Beef Afritada is typically served with steamed rice, which helps to soak up the flavorful sauce. The stew can also be served with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a more well-rounded meal. Some people also like to serve the stew with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or scallions on top, which adds a burst of fresh flavor to the dish.
When serving Beef Afritada, make sure to spoon some of the sauce over the rice and beef, as this is where most of the flavor is. The stew can also be served with a variety of condiments, such as patis (fish sauce) or calamansi (Filipino lime), which can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.