Irresistible Beef Pares Recipe

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Why Cook Beef Pares?
3. Ingredients Required
4. Step 1: Sautéing the Garlic, Onions, and Ginger
5. Step 2: Adding the Beef and Seasonings
6. Step 3: Braising the Meat
7. Step 4: Thickening the Sauce
8. Step 5: Garnishing and Serving
9. Variations: Pork Pares and Chicken Pares
10. Conclusion

Introduction

Beef Pares is a delicious and hearty Filipino dish that combines tender beef, flavorful broth, and aromatic spices. This dish is perfect for those who are craving a comforting and satisfying meal. In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step process of cooking Beef Pares, the ingredients required, and some variations You can try. So put on your chef hat, Gather your ingredients, and let's get started on this culinary adventure!

Why Cook Beef Pares?

1. Beef Pares is a popular Filipino dish that is loved by many for its rich and savory flavors.
2. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or paired with steamed rice for a filling meal.
3. The slow cooking process results in tender and melt-in-your-mouth beef that is infused with the fragrant spices and seasonings.
4. It is a budget-friendly dish that can be prepared using affordable cuts of beef.
5. Beef Pares can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences by adjusting the level of sweetness, spiciness, and thickness of the sauce.

Ingredients Required

Before we dive into the cooking process, let's gather all the ingredients required to make Beef Pares:

• 3 kilograms of beef (brisket is recommended)
• Garlic
• Onions
• Ginger
• Soy sauce
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Laurel or Bay Leaf
• Star anise
• Chinese Five spice powder
• Brown sugar
• Vinegar
• Water
• Spring onions
• Oyster sauce (for garlic rice)
• Cooked rice (for garlic rice)

Now that we have everything ready, let's start cooking our delicious Beef Pares!

Step 1: Sautéing the Garlic, Onions, and Ginger

To begin our Beef Pares Journey, let's sauté the aromatic ingredients that will infuse our dish with amazing flavors. Start by heating oil in a large casserole and sauté a generous amount of garlic until it turns light brown. The fragrance of the garlic will fill your kitchen and Create a mouthwatering aroma. Slice two large onions and add them to the casserole, along with some sliced ginger. Sauté the mixture until the onions become translucent and the flavors meld together.

Step 2: Adding the Beef and Seasonings

Now it's time to add the star of our dish – the beef! Cut the beef into smaller, bite-sized pieces and add them to the casserole. Season the beef with soy sauce to enhance its natural umami flavor. Add black pepper, bay leaf, star anise, Chinese Five spice powder, and a cup of brown sugar to the casserole. These seasonings will give our Beef Pares its unique taste and aroma. Stir everything well to ensure that the beef is coated with the flavorsome mixture.

Step 3: Braising the Meat

The key to achieving tender and succulent beef in Beef Pares is the slow cooking process. Cover the casserole and let the dish simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. The slow cooking will allow the beef to absorb all the flavors from the spices and seasonings, resulting in a truly delicious and tender dish. Keep an eye on the broth as it reduces, intensifying the flavors.

Step 4: Thickening the Sauce

Once the beef is cooked to perfection, it's time to give our sauce the right consistency. If the broth is too thin, you can thicken it using a simple cornstarch slurry. Dissolve cornstarch in some water and add it to the casserole, adjusting the quantity Based on your desired thickness. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired consistency. Remember, the perfect thickening of the pares is when it coats the rice.

Step 5: Garnishing and Serving

Our Beef Pares is almost ready to be enjoyed! Finely chop some spring onions and sprinkle them on top of the dish for added freshness and flavor. You can also garnish with toasted garlic for that extra kick. Ladle the Beef Pares into bowls, making sure to include some of the flavorful broth. Serve it alongside steamed rice or garlic rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Sit back, take a bite, and savor the delightful combination of tender beef and aromatic flavors.

Variations: Pork Pares and Chicken Pares

If you're not a fan of beef, don't worry! You can easily make Pork Pares by substituting the beef with pork. You can use cuts like pork belly or pork shoulder for succulent and flavorful results. Similarly, Chicken Pares is a delicious option for those who prefer poultry meat. The cooking process remains the same; simply adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Beef Pares is undoubtedly a dish that warms both the stomach and the heart. Its rich flavors, tender meat, and aromatic spices make it a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for any occasion. So why not gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and indulge in the comforting goodness of Beef Pares? Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this dish will surely leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy the flavors of the Philippines and create memories that will be cherished forever.