Introduction
Kare-Kare is a traditional Filipino dish known for its savory and nutty flavor. This hearty stew features oxtail, tripe, or pork, simmered to tenderness in a thick peanut sauce made from ground peanuts or peanut butter. It is typically accompanied by a variety of vegetables, such as eggplant, banana heart, and green beans. Served with a side of bagoong (fermented shrimp paste), Kare-Kare is a beloved comfort food that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) oxtail, cut into pieces
- 1/2 lb (225g) tripe (optional), cut into pieces
- 8 cups water (for boiling)
- 1 onion, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (or ground peanuts)
- 1/4 cup rice flour (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced
- 1 banana heart, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup bok choy or similar leafy greens
- Bagoong (fermented shrimp paste)
- Steamed rice
Instructions
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Prepare the Oxtail:
- In a large pot, combine the oxtail and tripe (if using) with water, onion, and half of the minced garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender. Skim off any scum that rises to the surface.
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Thicken the Sauce:
- Once the meat is tender, remove it from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth, discarding the onion and any solids. Measure out about 4 cups of the broth and return it to the pot.
- In a separate bowl, combine the peanut butter and rice flour, then slowly whisk in some of the hot broth until smooth. Add this mixture back to the pot, stirring well to combine. Simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened.
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Add the Meat and Vegetables:
- Return the oxtail and tripe to the pot, stirring to coat them in the peanut sauce. Add the remaining garlic, fish sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the sliced eggplant, banana heart, and green beans, simmering until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Lastly, stir in the bok choy and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
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Serve:
- Ladle the Kare-Kare into bowls and serve hot with steamed rice on the side. Don’t forget the bagoong for added flavor!
Health Tips
- Kare-Kare can be rich in calories and fat due to the peanut butter and meat. To make it healthier, consider using leaner cuts of meat, or substitute some of the meat with more vegetables. You can also use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
- Kare-Kare is best enjoyed hot, alongside steamed rice. The bagoong provides a salty contrast that complements the dish’s rich, nutty flavor.
Tips
- Flavor Enhancements: For added depth, consider toasting the ground peanuts before adding them to the stew.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, based on your preference.
- Make-Ahead: Kare-Kare tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. It can be made in advance and reheated gently on the stove.
