Beef Caldereta Recipe

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A Comforting Classic of Filipino Cuisine

Few dishes warm the heart like a well-made beef caldereta recipe. Rich, hearty, and deeply flavorful, this classic Filipino stew is perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Known for its thick tomato-based sauce and fork-tender beef, Caldereta is a staple in many Filipino households. It’s also endlessly customizable, which makes it a top pick whether you’re serving a family dinner or a weekend get-together.

What Makes This Caldereta Truly Special?

This isn’t just any caldereta beef recipe it’s a richer, more indulgent take on the traditional dish. What makes this version stand out is the creamy twist: the combination of liver spread, grated cheese, and tomato paste creates a luscious, velvety sauce that clings to every bite. This is the hallmark of a truly creamy beef caldereta recipe, elevating the dish from simple stew to a celebration of flavor.

Tips for the Best Flavor & Texture

Choose the Right Cut

Opt for beef brisket or short ribs. These cuts are ideal for low-and-slow cooking, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth.

Don’t Skip the Liver Spread and Cheese

This combo is what gives the sauce its signature creamy texture and depth. If you’re wary of liver, don’t worry—it blends seamlessly into the sauce and adds savory richness without overwhelming the flavor.

Adjust the Heat to Your Taste

Caldereta is traditionally a bit spicy, but you can tailor it to your preference. Use fresh chili or chili flakes to control the level of heat.

Great for Meal Prep and Variations

One of the best things about this easy beef caldereta recipe is that it tastes even better the next day. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers something to look forward to. You can also experiment with your choice of vegetables, or even try a vegetarian caldereta recipe by replacing the beef with plant-based alternatives like tofu or mushrooms while keeping the rich sauce intact.

A Filipino Favorite, Reimagined

This Filipino beef caldereta recipe honors tradition while adding a modern creamy twist. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking to explore Filipino cuisine, this beef caldereta recipe offers an approachable and rewarding experience. Paired with steamed white rice, it’s guaranteed to bring comfort, joy, and a taste of home to your table.

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Comfort Food

Beef Caldereta Recipe

Author: Cook Rella Cooking Method: Braising, Sauteing, Simmering Cuisine: Filipino

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 70 mins Total Time 1 hr 20 mins

Estimated Cost: $ 18 Calories: 600

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Dietary:

C Contains Dairy C Contains meat G Gluten-Free

Description

Experience the rich and savory flavors of this beef caldereta recipe, a traditional Filipino stew made with tender beef, tomato paste, liver spread, and cheese. This creamy beef caldereta is perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners. Packed with vegetables and bold spices, it’s a satisfying and comforting dish the whole family will love. Try this Filipino beef caldereta recipe today and bring home a taste of authentic Filipino cooking.

Ingredients

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• 2 medium potato (cubed)
• 4 tablespoons liver spread
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 pound beef brisket or 2 pounds ribs
• 6 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 3 tablespoons oil
• 2 cups water (or more)
• 2 medium carrots (sliced)
• 3 pieces bay leaves
• salt and pepper
• 1 chili pepper or ⅛ teaspoon chili flakes (or more depending on one's taste)
• 1 cup green/red bell pepper - cut into squares
• 1 cup green peas
• ½ cup grated cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the Vegetables
   Heat oil in a large pot or deep pan over medium heat. Add the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots. Cook for a few minutes until the edges are slightly golden. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.

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2. Sauté the Aromatics
   In the same pan, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook until they’re soft and fragrant.

   Mark as complete

3. Brown the Beef
   Add the beef pieces to the pan. Pour in the fish sauce and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the beef starts to brown.

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4. Simmer the Beef
   Pour in the water and add the bay leaves. Sprinkle in some black pepper. Bring everything to a boil. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat, cover the pot with a lid, and let it cook slowly for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the beef is tender. Stir once in a while and add more water if the sauce gets too thick.

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5. Make the Sauce
   Once the beef is soft, take off the lid and let it cook uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid. Stir in the tomato paste, chili flakes or fresh chili, and liver spread. Cook for another 5 minutes to let the flavors blend.

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6. Add Vegetables and Cheese
   Put the cooked potatoes and carrots back into the pot. Add the bell peppers and green peas. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes.

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7. Finish and Serve
   Stir in the grated cheese. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with a side of steamed rice.

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Nutrition Facts

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 600kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 35g54%

Saturated Fat 13g65%

Cholesterol 105mg35%

Total Carbohydrate 28g10%

Dietary Fiber 5g20%

Sugars 6g

Protein 37g74%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: beef stew, caldereta, Filipino beef, tomato stew, creamy beef stew, liver spread stew, cheesy caldereta, Filipino main dish, spicy Filipino beef, easy beef caldereta

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