Kare-Kare

Kare-Kare is a traditional Filipino stew known for its rich flavor and creamy peanut sauce. Often served during family gatherings and special occasions, this dish is a staple in Filipino cuisine. Traditionally, Kare-Kare is made with oxtail or tripe but can also include pork hocks or beef. Its unique and savory flavor is derived from its key ingredient, the peanut butter-based sauce, combined with bagoong on the side.

History of Kare-Kare

The origin of Kare-Kare is said to date back to the pre-colonial era, with influences from Indian, Malay, and Chinese cuisine. Some believe that the dish was introduced by Indian settlers who came to the Philippines through trade routes. The name "Kare-Kare" is thought to have come from the word "curry," due to the similarity of using a sauce, although authentic Kare-Kare does not use spices typically found in curry.

Ingredients

• Oxtail - 2 lbs, cut into pieces
• Tripe (optional) - 1 lb
• Beef shank (optional) - 1 lb
• Peanut butter - 1 cup
• Annatto seeds - 2 tbsp for coloring
• Garlic - 5 cloves, minced
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Bok choy - 1 bunch
• Eggplant - 2 medium-sized, sliced
• Banana blossom - 1/2 cup, optional
• Green beans - 1 cup
• Salt - to taste
• Ground black pepper - to taste
• Bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) - for serving

Preparation

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Begin by thoroughly washing the oxtail, tripe, and beef shank if using. Pat them dry with paper towels.

2. Slice the eggplant and soak them in water to avoid browning. Set aside.

3. Soak the annatto seeds in warm water for about 30 minutes to extract the color.

Cooking the Meat

1. In a large pot, add the oxtail, tripe, and beef shank pieces. Add water to cover the meat and bring it to a boil.

2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.

3. Continue to simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat becomes tender. Add more water as needed to keep the meat submerged. For cooking timer tracking, set your timer to check every hour.

Creating the Kare-Kare Sauce

Sautéing

1. In a separate pan, heat oil and sauté the garlic until golden brown.

2. Add the onion and cook until translucent.

3. Stir in the peanut butter and allow it to melt and combine with the onions and garlic.

Combining the Ingredients

1. Pour the annatto water into the sauté pan, discarding the seeds, for color.

2. Stir the sautéed mixture into the pot with the cooked meat.

3. Add the eggplant, green beans, and banana blossom, cooking until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.

Final Touches

1. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Add the bok choy just before serving to maintain its bright color and crisp texture.

How to Enjoy Kare-Kare

Kare-Kare is best enjoyed hot, accompanied by a side of bagoong for added flavor. It pairs perfectly with steamed rice, which complements the rich and savory peanut sauce. For a complete feast, serve with other traditional Filipino dishes such as lumpia and pancit.

This sumptuous dish brings the family together to enjoy the unique flavors of the Philippines, celebrating tradition with each savory bite.