How to Cook Kare-kare

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.