Kare kare is a popular Filipino dish that originated from the province of Pampanga. It is a rich and flavorful stew made with ox tripe, vegetables, and ground rice, cooked in a peanut-based sauce. The dish is often served on special occasions and is a staple in many Filipino households. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook kare kare Filipino style, along with a video tutorial to help you master this delicious dish.
What is Kare Kare?
Kare kare is a traditional Filipino stew made with ox tripe, vegetables, and ground rice, cooked in a peanut-based sauce. The dish is believed to have originated from the province of Pampanga, where it is still a popular dish today. Kare kare is often served on special occasions such as fiestas, weddings, and holidays. It is also a staple in many Filipino households, where it is served as a main course or as a side dish.
Ingredients Used in Kare Kare
The ingredients used in kare kare are simple and easily available. The main ingredients include:
- Ox tripe (or beef or pork tripe)
- Vegetables such as eggplant, okra, and string beans
- Ground rice
- Peanut paste
- Shrimp paste
- Fish sauce
- Salt and pepper
- Vegetable oil
Optional Ingredients
Some recipes may also include optional ingredients such as:
- Bagoong (fermented fish paste)
- Patis (fish sauce)
- Calamansi (Filipino lime)
- Chilies or chili peppers
How to Cook Kare Kare Filipino Style
Cooking kare kare is a simple process that requires some preparation and cooking time. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook kare kare Filipino style:
Step 1: Prepare the Ox Tripe
The first step in cooking kare kare is to prepare the ox tripe. Ox tripe is a tough and chewy meat that needs to be cleaned and cooked before it can be used in the dish. To prepare the ox tripe, follow these steps:
- Clean the ox tripe thoroughly and cut it into small pieces.
- Boil the ox tripe in water until it is tender.
- Drain the water and set the ox tripe aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
The next step is to prepare the vegetables. The vegetables used in kare kare are typically eggplant, okra, and string beans. To prepare the vegetables, follow these steps:
- Cut the eggplant into small pieces and set it aside.
- Cut the okra into small pieces and set it aside.
- Cut the string beans into small pieces and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Rice
The next step is to cook the ground rice. Ground rice is a key ingredient in kare kare and is used to thicken the sauce. To cook the ground rice, follow these steps:
- Heat some oil in a pan and add the ground rice.
- Cook the ground rice until it is lightly browned.
- Set the cooked ground rice aside.
Step 4: Cook the Peanut Paste
The next step is to cook the peanut paste. Peanut paste is a key ingredient in kare kare and is used to give the dish its rich and creamy flavor. To cook the peanut paste, follow these steps:
- Heat some oil in a pan and add the peanut paste.
- Cook the peanut paste until it is lightly browned.
- Set the cooked peanut paste aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Kare Kare
The final step is to assemble the kare kare. To assemble the kare kare, follow these steps:
- In a large pot, combine the cooked ox tripe, vegetables, ground rice, and peanut paste.
- Add some water to the pot and bring it to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer the kare kare until the sauce has thickened.
- Season the kare kare with salt, pepper, and fish sauce.
- Serve the kare kare hot with steamed rice.
Video Tutorial: How to Cook Kare Kare Filipino Style
Here is a video tutorial on how to cook kare kare Filipino style:
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you master the art of cooking kare kare:
- Use a variety of vegetables: While eggplant, okra, and string beans are the traditional vegetables used in kare kare, you can also use other vegetables such as bok choy, spinach, and bell peppers.
- Add some spice: If you like spicy food, you can add some chili peppers or chili flakes to the kare kare.
- Use different types of meat: While ox tripe is the traditional meat used in kare kare, you can also use beef or pork tripe.
- Add some acidity: A squeeze of calamansi or Filipino lime can add a nice acidity to the kare kare.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking kare kare:
- Overcooking the ox tripe: Ox tripe can become tough and chewy if it is overcooked. Make sure to cook it until it is tender but still firm.
- Undercooking the ground rice: Ground rice needs to be cooked until it is lightly browned to give the kare kare its rich and creamy flavor.
- Not seasoning the kare kare: Kare kare needs to be seasoned with salt, pepper, and fish sauce to bring out its flavor.
Conclusion
Cooking kare kare Filipino style is a simple process that requires some preparation and cooking time. By following the steps outlined in this article and watching the video tutorial, you can master the art of cooking kare kare and enjoy this delicious Filipino dish in the comfort of your own home. Remember to use a variety of vegetables, add some spice, and season the kare kare with salt, pepper, and fish sauce to bring out its flavor. Happy cooking!
What is Kare Kare and where did it originate?
Kare Kare is a traditional Filipino stew made from ox tripe, vegetables, and ground rice. It is a popular dish in the Philippines, particularly in the province of Pampanga, where it is said to have originated. The dish is believed to have been influenced by the culinary traditions of the Spanish and the Chinese, who introduced the use of ground rice and other ingredients to the Philippines.
Kare Kare is a unique and flavorful dish that is often served on special occasions such as fiestas and celebrations. It is a hearty and comforting stew that is made with a variety of ingredients, including ox tripe, vegetables, and ground rice. The dish is slow-cooked in a flavorful broth made with peanut sauce, which gives it a rich and creamy texture.
What are the main ingredients needed to cook Kare Kare?
The main ingredients needed to cook Kare Kare include ox tripe, vegetables such as eggplant, okra, and string beans, ground rice, peanut sauce, and a variety of spices. Other ingredients such as onions, garlic, ginger, and bagoong (fermented fish paste) are also used to add flavor to the dish. The ingredients may vary depending on the region and personal preferences.
It’s also important to note that some ingredients, such as ox tripe, may be difficult to find in some areas. In this case, beef or pork can be used as a substitute. Additionally, some ingredients such as peanut sauce can be made from scratch or store-bought. The key is to use fresh and high-quality ingredients to ensure that the dish turns out flavorful and delicious.
How do I prepare the ox tripe for cooking?
Preparing the ox tripe for cooking involves cleaning and boiling it until it is tender. The ox tripe should be washed thoroughly and then boiled in water until it is soft and pliable. This process can take several hours, depending on the toughness of the tripe. Once the tripe is tender, it can be sliced into thin strips and used in the Kare Kare recipe.
It’s also important to note that ox tripe can be quite tough and chewy, so it’s essential to cook it until it is tender. Some people also like to add vinegar or lemon juice to the water when boiling the tripe to help remove any impurities and give it a cleaner flavor.
Can I use other types of protein instead of ox tripe?
Yes, other types of protein such as beef or pork can be used as a substitute for ox tripe in Kare Kare. Beef or pork can be sliced into thin strips and cooked in the same way as the ox tripe. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the dish may be slightly different.
Using beef or pork can also reduce the cooking time, as they are generally tender and cook faster than ox tripe. However, it’s still important to cook the protein until it is tender and the flavors have melded together. Additionally, some people may prefer the flavor and texture of beef or pork over ox tripe, so it’s ultimately up to personal preference.
How do I make the peanut sauce for Kare Kare?
The peanut sauce for Kare Kare can be made from scratch by grinding peanuts and mixing them with water, garlic, and spices. The mixture is then cooked until it thickens and turns into a creamy sauce. Some people also like to add a little bit of oil or butter to the sauce to give it a richer flavor.
Alternatively, peanut sauce can be store-bought or made using peanut butter as a substitute. However, making the sauce from scratch can be more flavorful and rewarding. The key is to use fresh and high-quality ingredients to ensure that the sauce turns out creamy and delicious.
Can I cook Kare Kare in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, Kare Kare can be cooked in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. In fact, using a slow cooker or Instant Pot can be a convenient and time-saving way to cook the dish. Simply brown the protein and cook the vegetables in a pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker or Instant Pot and cook until the flavors have melded together.
Using a slow cooker or Instant Pot can also help to tenderize the protein and cook the vegetables evenly. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of protein and vegetables used. It’s also important to adjust the seasoning and spices accordingly to ensure that the dish turns out flavorful and delicious.
How do I serve Kare Kare?
Kare Kare is typically served with steamed rice and a variety of side dishes such as steamed vegetables, grilled fish, or fried meat. The dish can also be served with a side of bagoong (fermented fish paste) or patis (fish sauce) to add extra flavor.
When serving Kare Kare, it’s also important to garnish it with fresh vegetables such as eggplant, okra, and string beans. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Additionally, some people like to serve Kare Kare with a side of chili peppers or hot sauce to add an extra kick of heat.