Kare Kare Recipe: Kare Kare is a traditional Filipino stew known for its rich and savory peanut sauce, tender oxtail, and an assortment of vegetables. It’s a classic comfort food that’s often reserved for special occasions or Sunday family gatherings. If you’re looking to impress your family or just indulge in a hearty, flavorful dish, Kare Kare should be on your list.
Originating from the Pampanga region, known as the culinary capital of the Philippines, Kare Kare carries a long history. Some even say it dates back to the regal feasts of the Moro elite, where peanut-based dishes were staples. Today, it remains a symbol of Filipino culinary pride.
Ingredients Needed for Kare Kare
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s first gather everything you need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs oxtail (you can also use beef tripe or beef shank)
- 1 bundle of banana blossoms (optional)
- 1 bundle of string beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 eggplant, sliced
- 1 banana heart (optional)
- 1 bundle of pechay (bok choy)
- 1/2 cup ground roasted peanuts or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup ground toasted rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- Cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional and Substitute Ingredients:
- Ox tripe or pork hocks for meat variation
- Peanut butter for a quicker, easier sauce
- Annatto seeds (achuete) for color
Having all your ingredients ready before you start ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking process.
Tools and Equipment Required
You don’t need a fancy kitchen to cook Kare Kare, but having the right tools makes the task easier:
- Large pot or Dutch oven (for stewing)
- Frying pan (for sautéing)
- Cooking spoon or spatula
- Strainer (if using annatto seeds for natural coloring)
- Blender or food processor (optional, for a creamier sauce)
Tips:
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent the sauce from burning.
- Prepare a separate bowl for straining any impurities from the broth.
Preparation Steps Before Cooking
Prepping the Meat and Vegetables:
- Wash the oxtail thoroughly and cut into serving pieces if needed.
- Boil the oxtail in water for about 10 minutes to remove scum and impurities. Drain and rinse.
- Blanch string beans, eggplant, and pechay separately in boiling water for 1–2 minutes to retain their vibrant color. Set aside.
Prepping the Sauce:
- If using annatto seeds, soak them in hot water until the color bleeds out. Strain and save the liquid.
- If grinding peanuts and rice yourself, use a food processor to achieve a fine texture.
This stage is crucial for a clean, flavorful dish, so take your time with preparation.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Meat
- In a large pot, add the pre-boiled oxtail and enough water to cover it.
- Simmer on low heat for 2–3 hours or until the meat is tender. Skim off any scum that rises.
- Alternatively, use a pressure cooker to cut the time down to about 40 minutes.
Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables
- Sauté garlic and onion in a separate pan until fragrant.
- Quickly stir-fry the eggplant, string beans, and banana heart (if using) just until slightly tender. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Making the Peanut Sauce
- In the same pan, sauté more garlic and onions.
- Add the ground peanuts (or peanut butter) and ground toasted rice, stirring constantly.
- Slowly add beef broth from the pot, stirring until a thick sauce forms.
- Add the annatto water if you’re using it for that signature golden-orange hue.
Step 4: Combining Everything
- Pour the peanut sauce into the pot with the tender oxtail.
- Stir well to coat the meat evenly.
- Add the vegetables on top, cover, and let simmer for another 5–10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
There you have it—a rich, creamy Kare Kare that’s just waiting to be served!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Kare Kare
Making Kare Kare might seem straightforward, but there are little secrets that can take your dish from good to legendary:
- Use fresh, quality meat. The oxtail should be gelatinous and rich when properly cooked.
- Don’t rush the simmer. Low and slow cooking extracts maximum flavor and ensures tender meat.
- Toast your rice properly. For an authentic taste, toast rice grains until golden before grinding. It adds a distinct nutty aroma to your sauce.
- Be generous with peanut flavor. Some recipes go light on the peanuts—don’t. That deep peanut taste is the heart of Kare Kare.
- Add a splash of fish sauce. A tiny bit right before finishing cooking boosts the umami flavor profile.
- Serve with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste). Kare Kare without bagoong is like a burger without fries—it feels incomplete.
Remember, the secret ingredient is patience. Like any masterpiece, Kare Kare rewards you for the effort you put in.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Kare Kare
Kare Kare is a meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides elevates it even further:
- Bagoong (fermented shrimp paste): Its salty, funky flavor cuts through the richness of the peanut sauce, creating a perfect balance.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The nutty aroma and fluffy texture of jasmine rice make it the ideal canvas for soaking up the peanut gravy.
- Fresh Mango Salad: A refreshing and tangy side that cleanses your palate between bites.
- Crispy Fried Fish: Some prefer to have a side of fried tilapia or bangus (milkfish) for contrast.
The key is balancing the creamy heaviness of Kare Kare with something sharp, salty, or crispy.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you—Kare Kare tastes even better the next day!
Storage:
- Let the dish cool completely before storing.
- Place in airtight containers.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in portion sizes for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Thaw overnight if frozen.
- Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce gets too thick.
- Stir often to prevent sticking.
Pro Tip: Always reheat only what you can consume. Repeated heating and cooling can spoil the dish faster.
Nutritional Information
While Kare Kare is an indulgent dish, it also offers nutritional benefits:
| Nutrient | Approximate Value (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450–600 |
| Protein | 30g–40g |
| Fat | 25g–35g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g–30g |
| Fiber | 5g–8g |
Health Considerations:
- High in protein thanks to the oxtail and peanuts.
- Peanut sauce provides good fats that are heart-healthy.
- Vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- It’s high in calories and fat, so enjoy in moderation if you’re watching your intake.
Still, for a special occasion or family gathering, a hearty plate of Kare Kare is more than worth it!
FAQs about Kare Kare Recipe
What is Kare Kare made of?
Kare Kare is a traditional Filipino stew made with oxtail, vegetables like eggplant and string beans, and a rich, savory peanut sauce. Some variations also include beef tripe, pork hocks, or seafood.
Can I use a different meat for Kare Kare?
Yes! While oxtail is traditional, you can also use beef shank, pork knuckles, or even chicken for a lighter version. Some modern recipes also swap in seafood like prawns and squid.
How do you make Kare Kare sauce from scratch?
The sauce is typically made by combining ground roasted peanuts or peanut butter with a thick beef broth. Some recipes also use toasted rice powder to thicken the sauce and add a nutty flavor.
What is the best side dish for Kare Kare?
Kare Kare is best served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) on the side. The salty, umami-packed bagoong perfectly complements the creamy peanut sauce.
Can I make Kare Kare ahead of time?
Absolutely! Kare Kare actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Is Kare Kare spicy?
No, Kare Kare is not spicy. It has a mild, nutty flavor. However, you can add chili peppers or spicy bagoong on the side if you prefer a little heat.
Can I freeze Kare Kare?
Yes, you can freeze Kare Kare for up to 2-3 months. Store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to preserve the texture.
Conclusion
Kare Kare isn’t just a dish—it’s a celebration of Filipino culture and flavors. The tender oxtail, the creamy peanut sauce, the bright, crunchy vegetables, and the salty punch of bagoong all come together to create an unforgettable meal. Though it takes some time and effort, the reward is a bowl of pure comfort that’s both nourishing and soul-satisfying.
Whether you’re making it for a Sunday lunch, a birthday feast, or just because you’re craving something truly special, Kare Kare is bound to impress. So gather your ingredients, take your time, and savor the process. Your future self (and your happy guests) will thank you.
Happy cooking!
