Beef Pares
Beef Pares is a famous Filipino dish that originated from the streets of Manila. It is a combination of tender beef, sweet and savory sauce, and garlic fried rice, making it a mouth-watering meal that has captured the hearts and palates of many people.
Savor the Flavor of Tradition with Homemade Beef Pares
Introduction to Beef Pares: A Filipino Comfort Food
Imagine a dish that wraps you in warmth with every bite, offering a perfect blend of flavors that dance on your tongue. That’s Beef Pares for you—a beloved Filipino comfort food known for its tender beef and rich, savory sauce. A staple in many Filipino households, this dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together around the dining table. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to recreate this classic dish at home, perfect for any home cook eager to explore new culinary horizons.
History and Origin of Beef Pares
Beef Pares has humble beginnings rooted in the bustling streets of Manila, where it was first served as a quick and hearty meal for workers. The word “pares” means “pair,” reflecting the traditional duo of beef and garlic fried rice served together. Over time, this street food favorite has evolved into a cherished dish found in both homes and restaurants across the Philippines. Its rich history and comforting taste make it a must-try for anyone interested in authentic Filipino cuisine.
Ingredients Needed for Authentic Beef Pares
Creating an authentic Beef Pares requires a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs beef loin tri-tip, cut into cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 small ginger, julienned
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp five spice powder (a mix of ground cinnamon, anise seed, cloves, ginger, and fennel seed)
- ½ cup lite soy sauce
- 6 cups water
- 3 stalks spring onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp cornstarch dissolved in ½ cup water
These ingredients come together to create the rich, savory sauce and tender beef that Beef Pares is known for.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide for Making Beef Pares at Home
Ready to start cooking? Follow these easy steps to make delicious Beef Pares right in your kitchen:
- Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onions, and ginger. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, setting the base for the flavorful sauce.
- Cook the Beef
Add the beef cubes to the pot, seasoning with salt, pepper, brown sugar, five spice powder, and soy sauce. Stir everything together to coat the beef with the spices. Pour in enough water to cover the beef fully.
- Simmer to Tenderness
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and allow it to simmer for about one hour, or until the beef becomes tender and easily falls apart.
- Thicken the Sauce
Once the beef is tender, add the chopped spring onion to the pot. Stir in the cornstarch mixture, continuing to cook and stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
With these steps, you’ll have a pot of delicious Beef Pares ready to enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Your Beef Pares
Making the perfect Beef Pares is all about technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out flawless every time:
- Choose the Right Cut
Opt for beef loin tri-tip or a similar cut that’s tender and flavorful. Avoid overly lean cuts to ensure the beef remains juicy.
- Control the Heat
Keep the heat low while simmering to allow the flavors to develop without burning the sauce.
- Adjust to Taste
Feel free to tweak the seasoning. You can add more soy sauce for saltiness or brown sugar for sweetness, depending on your preferences.
These tips will help elevate your Beef Pares to restaurant-quality status.
Variations and Customizations to the Beef Pares Recipe
While traditional Beef Pares is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to suit your taste:
- Spice it Up
Add chili flakes or fresh chilies for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate Vegetables
Include vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Try Different Proteins
Substitute the beef with chicken or pork for a different take on the classic dish.
Experimenting with these variations will keep your Beef Pares exciting and new every time you make it.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Beef Pares is typically served with garlic fried rice, but there are other tasty options to consider:
- Traditional Pairing
Enjoy your Beef Pares with garlicky fried rice for an authentic experience.
- Noodle Option
Serve it over egg noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Vegetable Side
Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or bok choy for a balanced plate.
Choosing the right pairing enhances the flavors and makes for a complete meal.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Beyond its delicious taste, Beef Pares offers several health benefits thanks to its key ingredients:
- Beef
A great source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins, beef supports muscle growth and overall health.
- Ginger
Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger aids digestion and boosts the immune system.
- Garlic
Rich in antioxidants, garlic helps combat illness and supports heart health.
These ingredients not only enhance the dish’s flavor but also contribute to a nutritious meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Beef Pares is more than just a meal—it’s a flavorful tradition that captures the essence of Filipino cuisine. By following this guide, you’ll bring the delightful taste of Beef Pares into your home, impressing family and friends alike. We encourage you to experiment with the recipe and share your creations with us and the community. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is beef pares made of?
Beef Pares consists of tender beef cubes cooked in a savory sauce made with garlic, onions, ginger, soy sauce, and various spices. It’s usually served with garlic fried rice.
How to make beef cubes soft and tender?
To ensure your beef cubes are soft and tender, simmer them over low heat for at least an hour. This slow cooking method allows the meat to absorb the flavors and break down, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Is beef pares unhealthy?
When enjoyed in moderation, Beef Pares can be part of a balanced diet. Its ingredients offer nutritional benefits, such as protein from the beef and antioxidants from the garlic and ginger. However, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and overall dietary balance.
Explore More Filipino Recipes
Venture into the vibrant world of Filipino cuisine, where every dish tells a story of cultural heritage and culinary ingenuity.
- Classic Pork Sinigang – Traditional Filipino dish. It is a sour and savory soup made with slow-cooked pork meat, an array of vegetables, and tamarind, which gives the dish its distinct tangy flavor.
- Pork Menudo – Traditional Filipino dish that’s made with generous pieces of pork, potato cubes, diced carrots, sliced tomatoes, chopped onions and bell peppers in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It is often garnished with pickles or raisins to add another layer of flavor to the already delicious dish!
- Best Crispy Okoy – Okoy, also known as shrimp fritters, is a popular Filipino snack or appetizer made with small shrimp and vegetables mixed in a batter and then deep-fried. It is usually served with soy sauce or vinegar for dipping.
- Pancit Canton – Traditional Filipino dish made from egg noodles, vegetables, and meats. It’s one of the most popular street food in the Philippines, and can be found in most Filipino households.
- Kwek Kwek (Filipino Street Food) – Popular Filipino street food snack made from quail eggs that are usually boiled, shelled, and then deep-fried. The eggs are usually coated with bright orange batter before they’re fried, and may be served alongside a variety of condiments like vinegar or a spicy sauce.
Beef Pares
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef loin tri-tip cut into cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large onion chopped
- 1 small ginger julienned
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp five spice powder (ground cinnamon, anise seed, cloves, ginger, and fennel seed).
- ½ cup soy sauce lite
- 6 cups water
- 3 stalks spring onion chopped
- 2 tbsp cornstarch dissolve with ½ cup water
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic, chopped onions, and ginger until they become translucent.
- Add beef cubes to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, brown sugar, five spice powder, and soy sauce. Mix everything together. Pour in enough water to cover the beef.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about one hour or until the beef is tender.
- Once the beef is tender, add spring onion. Stir in cornstarch dissolved in water. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
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