As the sun sets and the aroma of simmering spices fills the home, I find comfort in the warmth of a pot of Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka. This traditional Filipino dish, with its luscious oxtail bathed in a creamy peanut sauce, transports me to gatherings filled with laughter and joy. Each spoonful offers a delightful combination of savory notes and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, making it the perfect dish for both special occasions and cozy family dinners.
When I first tackled this recipe, the process felt a bit intimidating, but the result was worth every minute. From browning the oxtail to blending the rich peanut sauce, each step is a joyful dance in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply craving a hearty meal, this Kare Kare promises to become a beloved staple in your home. Let’s dive into this delightful culinary experience and savor every bite together!
Why is Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka so special?
Rich, Creamy Sauce: The creamy peanut sauce pairs perfectly with the tender oxtail, creating a comforting yet indulgent dish that will transport your taste buds to the Philippines.
Hearty Ingredients: Packed with vibrant vegetables like Chinese eggplant and bok choy, this recipe is not just filling but also nutritious.
Family-Friendly: Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, Kare Kare is sure to please everyone around the table.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with variations like using pork belly or adding coconut milk to cater to different dietary preferences.
Great for Celebrations: This dish is a staple at Filipino gatherings, making it a fantastic choice for special occasions or potlucks.
Time-Effective: With just a bit of patience, your homemade Kare Kare can be simmering away, letting you enjoy unforgettable flavors without spending all day in the kitchen.
Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka Ingredients
• Get ready to create an unforgettable Filipino delight!
For the Stew
- Oxtail – The heart of this dish, providing a rich flavor and tender texture. Consider a pork or beef substitute if needed.
- Knorr Beef Cube – Enhances the savory taste; you can skip this or use homemade broth for a lighter touch.
- Peanut Paste – The star ingredient for that signature creamy flavor; almond or cashew butter works if allergies are a concern.
- Annatto Powder – Adds appealing color and a mild flavor; paprika can work for color but won’t provide the same taste.
- Water – Essential for cooking the meat and vegetables to perfect tenderness.
- Onion – Brings sweetness and depth; don’t skip this for a balanced flavor.
- Garlic – Elevates the flavor, giving it that comforting aroma.
- Ground Black Pepper & Fish Sauce – Use these for seasoning to fit your taste preferences.
- Cooking Oil – Necessary for sautéing ingredients and building the foundational flavors.
For the Vegetables
- Chinese Eggplant – A nutritious addition that provides texture.
- Banana Blossoms – Contributes a unique flavor; swap with other mild veggies if unavailable.
- Bok Choy – Fresh greens that provide balance and nutrition to the dish.
- String Beans – Adds a crunchy element and vivid color to the vibrant presentation.
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to crafting a heartwarming Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the cooking journey!
How to Make Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka
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Boil Vegetables: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add sliced Chinese eggplant, banana blossoms, bok choy, and string beans. Cook these vibrant veggies for about 2 minutes, just until they soften slightly.
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Chill and Drain: Carefully transfer the blanched vegetables to a bowl of cold water for about 3 minutes. This helps to retain their bright colors and crispness! Drain and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat cooking oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
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Brown the Oxtail: Add the oxtail to the pot and sauté until it’s lightly browned, getting that delicious caramelization for enhanced flavor – this should take around 5-7 minutes.
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Simmer the Stew: Pour in the reserved vegetable cooking water, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 1 to 1.5 hours until the oxtail is tender and practically falls off the bone.
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Mix in Flavors: Stir in the Knorr Beef Cube, peanut paste, and annatto powder. Let simmer for an additional 10 minutes to meld the rich flavors together wonderfully.
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Season to Taste: Season your Kare Kare with fish sauce and ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Feel free to adjust it until it sings!
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Serve with Style: Spoon the Kare Kare into bowls and beautifully top it with the blanched vegetables. Don’t forget to serve with shrimp paste (bagoong alamang) on the side for an authentic experience.
Optional: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle with crushed peanuts before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka
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Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing.
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Freezer: If you want to enjoy Kare Kare for longer, freeze it in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or microwave until heated through.
Tips for the Best Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka
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Brown the Oxtail Properly: Ensure the oxtail is well-browned for richer flavor. This step is key to a savory, satisfying dish.
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Adjust Sauce Thickness: Play with the amount of peanut paste and water for your preferred sauce consistency. Be careful not to dilute the flavor too much.
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Longer Simmering for Tenderness: If you prefer super tender meat, allow extra simmering time. Patience pays off with amazing texture!
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Choosing Fresh Vegetables: Use the freshest vegetables available, like Chinese eggplant and bok choy, to enhance the overall dish and keep it vibrant.
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Pair with Shrimp Paste: Serving your Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka with shrimp paste balances the richness of the dish, making every bite a delightful experience.
What to Serve with Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka?
A delightful spread can elevate your Kare Kare experience, creating a memorable meal that delights the senses.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Serves as a perfect base to soak up the rich, creamy peanut sauce of your Kare Kare, enhancing each bite’s flavor.
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Shrimp Paste (Bagoong Alamang): This essential condiment adds a salty, umami punch that beautifully contrasts the dish’s richness, creating a well-rounded experience.
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Grilled or Fried Fish: Lightly seasoned and simply cooked, fish offers a crispy texture that complements the soft oxtail while keeping the meal balanced.
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Pickled Vegetables: Add a refreshing tanginess with quick-pickled veggies like radishes or carrots. Their crispness provides a delightful crunch alongside the tender stew.
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Crispy Fried Tofu: Ideal for vegetarians or those seeking a hearty side, the crispy exterior gives a satisfying texture and complements the creamy sauce of the Kare Kare.
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Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet and fragrant version of rice amplifies the dish’s tropical flavors, adding a unique twist to your dining experience.
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Mango Salad: Bright, fresh, and slightly tangy, a salad featuring ripe mangoes will cut through the creamy richness of the Kare Kare, refreshing the palate.
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Fresh Lemongrass Iced Tea: This aromatic drink will complement the hearty meal, providing a fragrant and cooling finish that enhances the overall enjoyment.
Make Ahead Options
These Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time and effort! You can prepare the oxtail and simmer it in the creamy peanut sauce up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just follow the initial cooking steps until the meat is tender, then allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it, ensuring it’s well covered to maintain its rich flavor. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to achieve the desired consistency. Finish by blanching the vegetables just before serving, ensuring your dish remains fresh and vibrant, just as delicious as when first made!
Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this comforting dish to suit your taste preferences.
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Pork Belly: Swap out the oxtail for pork belly for an indulgent and crispy variation that’s equally delicious.
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Chicken Kare Kare: Use chicken thighs or drumsticks for a lighter, yet still flavorful take on this classic dish. Pairing with creamy coconut milk enhances the richness.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with tofu or tempeh, and add more vibrant veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a hearty plant-based alternative.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced fresh chili peppers or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the stew for an exciting heat level that elevates the flavors.
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Thai-inspired Twist: Introduce a splash of fish sauce or tamarind for a tangy depth. This twist adds a delightful fusion element to the dish.
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Nut-Free: For those with allergies, replace peanut paste with sunflower seed butter to maintain a creamy texture without the nuts.
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Sweet Potato Addition: Incorporate diced sweet potatoes to bring an added layer of sweetness and nutrition, while balancing the savory peanut sauce beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil right before serving to introduce a burst of freshness that brightens up each bite.
With each variation, you can explore different textures and flavors while honoring the spirit of Kare Kare. Enjoy the adventure in your kitchen!
Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting oxtail?
Absolutely! When choosing oxtail, look for pieces with a good amount of meat and cartilage, as they give that lovely, rich flavor to the dish. Ideally, the oxtail should have a bright red color with some marbling of fat. Avoid cuts with dark spots or an excessively dry appearance, as these may indicate poor quality.
How long can I store my leftover Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing to preserve freshness. For best results, enjoy it with a side of shrimp paste for that progressive flavor experience!
Can I freeze Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing Kare Kare is a great way to prolong its life. Pour it into a tightly sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag and remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or microwave until heated through.
What if the sauce is too thick for my liking?
Don’t worry! If your Kare Kare sauce is thicker than desired, you can easily adjust it. Simply add a little warm water to the pot, stirring thoroughly until your desired consistency is reached. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning afterward to maintain that scrumptious flavor.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider with this recipe?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with nut allergies, you can substitute peanut paste with almond or cashew butter, though the flavor will differ slightly. Additionally, if your guests have dietary restrictions, feel free to swap the oxtail for pork belly, chicken, or even tofu for a delicious vegetarian option. Always double-check ingredient labels for any hidden allergens!
How do I know when the oxtail is perfectly tender?
For perfect tenderness, the oxtail should be simmered for about 1 to 1.5 hours. The meat is ready when it easily pulls away from the bone with a gentle tug, and the texture should be soft and luscious, just like a warm hug. If it’s still tough, don’t hesitate to let it simmer for a little longer; just keep an eye on it!
Savory Kare Kare Buntot ng Baka: A Filipino Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add sliced Chinese eggplant, banana blossoms, bok choy, and string beans. Cook these veggies for about 2 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the blanched vegetables to a bowl of cold water for about 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat cooking oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the oxtail to the pot and sauté until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the reserved vegetable cooking water, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 1 to 1.5 hours until the oxtail is tender.
- Stir in the Knorr Beef Cube, peanut paste, and annatto powder. Let simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Season with fish sauce and ground black pepper to taste.
- Spoon the Kare Kare into bowls and top it with the blanched vegetables. Serve with shrimp paste on the side.