Beef Caldereta

Filipino Beef Calderata

Let's make Filipino-style Beef Caldereta, a hearty and flavorful beef stew that's enriched with liver spread, tomatoes, and bell peppers, and spiced with chili. This dish is often served at festive occasions and is a favorite comfort food for many.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg beef, cut into 1.5-inch cubes (preferably chuck or brisket)
• 3 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into strips
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons liver spread or pâté
• 1/2 cup green olives, pitted
• 2-3 hot chili peppers, sliced (optional)
• 3 cups beef broth or water
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:
• Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. 
• Add the beef cubes and sear them until all sides are browned. 
• Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
• In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. 
• Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent.
3. Add Vegetables and Beef Back to the Pot:
• Add the bell peppers, potatoes, and carrots to the pot. 
• Stir well and cook for a few minutes. 
• Return the browned beef to the pot.
4. Add Liquid and Simmer:
• Stir in the tomato sauce, liver spread, and beef broth. 
• Add the bay leaf, paprika, and chili peppers (if using). 
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer covered for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
5. Add Olives and Final Seasonings:
• Add the olives to the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. 
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. 
• Adjust the consistency of the stew by adding more broth or water if it's too thick.
6. Serve:
• Remove the bay leaf before serving. 
• Serve the beef caldereta hot with steamed rice.

Beef Caldereta's rich, complex flavors make it an excellent choice for a satisfying meal, especially during cooler weather. Its combination of savory, slightly spicy, and tangy elements is sure to delight any palate.