Beef Sinigang

Beef Sinigang

Beef Sinigang is a classic Filipino soup known for its tangy and savory taste, primarily derived from tamarind. This comforting dish combines tender beef with a variety of fresh vegetables, all simmered in a flavorful broth. 

Ingredients:

• 500 grams beef short ribs or shank, cut into pieces
• 2 liters water
• 1 packet (about 40 grams) of tamarind soup base or fresh tamarind
• 2 medium tomatoes, quartered
• 1 medium onion, quartered
• 2 large radishes (labanos), sliced
• 1 eggplant, sliced into half-inch rounds
• 1 bunch string beans (sitaw), cut into 2-inch lengths
• 1 bunch water spinach (kangkong) or spinach, leaves and tender stems only
• 2 long green peppers (siling haba)
• Fish sauce (patis), to taste
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the Beef:
• Place the beef in a large pot and cover with water. 
• Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. 
• Skim off any foam or scum that forms on the surface. 
• Continue to simmer until the beef starts to become tender, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
2. Add Flavorings:
• Add the quartered tomatoes and onions to the pot. 
• If using fresh tamarind, add it at this point as well. 
• Simmer for another 20 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
3. Season the Broth:
• If using a tamarind soup base, stir it into the pot now. 
• Add fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. 
• Adjust the sourness by adding more tamarind or soup base as preferred.
4. Add Vegetables:
• Add the radishes and cook for about 5 minutes. 
• Then add the eggplant and string beans. 
• Continue to simmer until all the vegetables are tender, about 10 more minutes.
5. Final Touches:
• Add the green peppers and water spinach or spinach. 
• Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted but still vibrant.
6. Adjust Seasonings:
• Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more fish sauce, salt, or pepper as needed.
7. Serve:
• Serve the sinigang hot with steamed rice, enjoying the rich broth and tender vegetables alongside the savory beef.

Beef Sinigang offers a symphony of flavors and textures, making it a heartwarming dish perfect for rainy days or any time you crave something satisfying and nutritious.

Tip: For those who love a bit of heat in their soup, I highly recommend this brand of tamarind soup base that features a spicy kick. You can easily find it at your local Asian supermarket. Don’t hesitate to adjust the quantity of the powder to suit your taste for spice!