Cooking the Perfect Kare Kare Beef Oxtail: A Step-by-Step Guide

Kare kare, a traditional Filipino stew, is a dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. This rich and flavorful stew is made with a variety of ingredients, including beef oxtail, vegetables, and a thick, savory peanut sauce. In this article, we will explore the art of cooking the perfect kare kare beef oxtail, and provide a step-by-step guide to help you create this delicious dish in the comfort of your own home.

Understanding the Origins of Kare Kare

Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the origins of kare kare. This traditional Filipino stew has its roots in the country’s rich culinary history, which has been influenced by various cultures, including Spanish, Chinese, and Malay. The name “kare kare” is derived from the Pampanga dialect, which means “to grind” or “to pound.” This refers to the process of grinding peanuts and rice into a fine paste, which is a crucial component of the dish.

The Significance of Beef Oxtail in Kare Kare

Beef oxtail is a staple ingredient in kare kare, and for good reason. The slow-cooked oxtail becomes tender and falls-off-the-bone, making it a perfect addition to the stew. The rich flavor of the oxtail also complements the peanut sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Preparing the Ingredients

Before we begin cooking, it’s essential to prepare the ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• 1 pound beef oxtail, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 cup rice flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as eggplant, okra, and string beans)
• 2 tablespoons bagoong (fermented shrimp paste)
• 2 tablespoons patis (fish sauce)

Grinding the Peanuts and Rice

To create the peanut sauce, you’ll need to grind the peanuts and rice into a fine paste. You can use a food processor or blender to do this. Simply combine 1 cup of peanuts and 1 cup of rice flour in the processor, and grind until smooth.

Cooking the Kare Kare Beef Oxtail

Now that we have our ingredients prepared, it’s time to start cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking the perfect kare kare beef oxtail:

Browning the Oxtail

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef oxtail and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the oxtail from the pot and set aside.

Sauteing the Onion and Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the pot. Saute until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and saute for another minute.

Adding the Peanut Sauce

Add the ground peanut and rice mixture to the pot, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and fragrant.

Adding the Beef Broth and Water

Add the beef broth and water to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.

Adding the Oxtail and Vegetables

Add the browned oxtail and mixed vegetables to the pot. Simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the oxtail is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Seasoning with Fish Sauce and Black Pepper

Add the fish sauce and ground black pepper to the pot, stirring to combine. Simmer for another 2 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.

Serving the Kare Kare Beef Oxtail

Serve the kare kare beef oxtail hot, garnished with chopped peanuts and steamed rice. You can also serve with a side of bagoong and patis for added flavor.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you create the perfect kare kare beef oxtail:

Using a Slow Cooker

If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can cook the kare kare beef oxtail in a slow cooker. Simply brown the oxtail and cook the peanut sauce in a pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Adding Other Ingredients

You can also add other ingredients to the kare kare beef oxtail, such as diced tomatoes or chopped bell peppers. Feel free to experiment and find the combination that works best for you.

Using Different Types of Protein

While beef oxtail is traditional in kare kare, you can also use other types of protein, such as pork or chicken. Simply adjust the cooking time and seasonings accordingly.

Conclusion

Cooking the perfect kare kare beef oxtail requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to experiment. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to create a delicious and authentic Filipino stew that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the rich flavors of the Philippines in the comfort of your own home.

By following this recipe and using the ingredients listed in the table above, you’ll be able to create a delicious and authentic kare kare beef oxtail that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

What is Kare Kare and where did it originate?

Kare Kare is a traditional Filipino stew made with ox tripe or beef oxtail, vegetables, and ground rice. It is a popular dish in the Philippines and is often served on special occasions. The dish is believed to have originated from the Pampanga region in the Philippines, where it is still widely enjoyed today.

The name “Kare Kare” is derived from the Pampanga word “kari,” which means “peanut sauce.” The dish is characterized by its rich and creamy peanut sauce, which is made with ground peanuts, rice flour, and spices. The sauce is simmered with the beef oxtail and vegetables to create a flavorful and aromatic stew.

What are the ingredients needed to cook Kare Kare Beef Oxtail?

To cook Kare Kare Beef Oxtail, you will need the following ingredients: beef oxtail, ox tripe, vegetables such as eggplant, string beans, and bok choy, ground peanuts, rice flour, peanut butter, garlic, onion, ginger, and spices. You will also need vegetable oil, salt, and black pepper. Some recipes may also include other ingredients such as shrimp paste, fish sauce, and vinegar.

It’s worth noting that some ingredients, such as ox tripe and shrimp paste, may be difficult to find in some areas. You can substitute these ingredients with other alternatives or omit them altogether if you prefer. Additionally, you can adjust the amount of spices and seasonings to suit your taste.

How do I prepare the beef oxtail for cooking?

To prepare the beef oxtail for cooking, you will need to clean and trim the meat. Remove any excess fat and cut the oxtail into bite-sized pieces. You can also ask your butcher to cut the oxtail into smaller pieces for you. Next, blanch the oxtail in boiling water to remove any impurities and excess fat.

After blanching, rinse the oxtail under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is important to remove any excess moisture from the meat, which can affect the texture of the stew. You can then proceed to cook the oxtail in a pot with some oil until it is browned on all sides.

How long does it take to cook Kare Kare Beef Oxtail?

Cooking Kare Kare Beef Oxtail can take several hours, depending on the method of cooking and the tenderness of the meat. If you are using a pressure cooker, you can cook the oxtail in about 30 minutes to 1 hour. However, if you are cooking it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, it can take 2-3 hours or more.

It’s worth noting that the longer you cook the oxtail, the more tender it will become. You can also cook the oxtail ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. This can save you time and effort when you’re ready to serve the dish.

Can I use other types of meat instead of beef oxtail?

Yes, you can use other types of meat instead of beef oxtail to make Kare Kare. Some popular alternatives include pork hocks, pork belly, and chicken. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the dish may be different.

If you’re using a different type of meat, you may need to adjust the cooking time and method accordingly. For example, pork hocks may require longer cooking time than beef oxtail, while chicken may require shorter cooking time. You can also experiment with different combinations of meat to create a unique flavor and texture.

How do I make the peanut sauce for Kare Kare?

To make the peanut sauce for Kare Kare, you will need to grind peanuts into a fine paste using a food processor or blender. You can also use peanut butter as a substitute. Next, mix the peanut paste with rice flour, garlic, onion, ginger, and spices to create a smooth and creamy sauce.

You can then simmer the sauce with the beef oxtail and vegetables to create a rich and flavorful stew. You can also adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more water or peanut paste. Some recipes may also include other ingredients such as coconut milk or cream to add richness and creaminess to the sauce.

Can I serve Kare Kare with other dishes?

Yes, you can serve Kare Kare with other dishes to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Some popular side dishes include steamed rice, grilled vegetables, and fried fish. You can also serve Kare Kare with other Filipino dishes such as adobo, sinigang, and lechon.

Kare Kare is also a popular dish to serve during special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays. You can serve it with other Filipino dishes to create a festive and delicious spread. Additionally, you can also serve Kare Kare with a variety of condiments such as patis (fish sauce), suka (vinegar), and chili peppers to add flavor and spice to the dish.