Filipino Beef Caldereta
A rich and hearty Filipino Beef Caldereta made with tender beef, carrots, potatoes, red bell peppers, olives, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Perfect for family meals or special occasions.
8 Servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced
- 2 cups carrots sliced (approximately 4 medium carrots)
- 2 russet potatoes peeled and cubed (approximately 2 ½ cups)
- 2 pounds beef cut into cubes
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can 6 ounces tomato paste
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- ½ cup green olives pitted
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onions, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Cook the Vegetables
- Add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir to coat them in the oil and allow them to cook for 3-4 minutes, lightly softening them.
Brown the Beef
- Add the beef cubes to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes, ensuring they are browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the dish.
Thicken the Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Pour the slurry into the pot, stirring to combine and coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
Build the Sauce
- Add the beef broth, tomato paste, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a medium boil, then reduce the heat to low-medium and cover the pot. Allow the stew to simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the Final Ingredients
- Remove the lid and stir in the sliced red bell peppers and green olives. Cook uncovered for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the peppers to soften slightly.
Serve the Caldereta
- Remove the bay leaves before serving. Transfer the Caldereta to a serving dish and enjoy it hot, paired with steamed rice or crusty bread.
Notes
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure the beef broth and any other pre-packaged ingredients, such as tomato paste or green olives, are labeled gluten-free. Substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of arrowroot powder if preferred.