Hearty Filipino Kare-Kare with Peanuts and Shrimp Paste

A rich, savory Filipino stew perfect for gatherings

Kare-Kare is a traditional Filipino stew known for its thick, peanut-based sauce, tender meat, and a delightful blend of flavors. It's a true comfort dish that warms the soul.

3 h
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Meat and Broth

2 lbs oxtail (cut into chunks)

1 lb pork shank

1 onion, quartered

4 cloves garlic, peeled

1 bay leaf

8 cups water

Salt, to taste

For the Peanut Sauce

1 cup peanut butter (creamy)

2 tbsp annatto powder

3 tbsp fish sauce

2 tbsp rice flour, toasted

1 tbsp cooking oil

For the Vegetables

1 bunch bok choy, trimmed

1 eggplant, sliced into rounds

2 cups green beans, trimmed

For the Shrimp Paste

1/2 cup shrimp paste (store-bought or homemade)

1 tbsp sugar

1 tbsp vinegar

1 tsp cooking oil

Preparation

Marinating the Meat

Simmer meat

In a large pot, place all meat ingredients with water and simmer for about 1.5 hours or until tender.

Skim impurities

Skim off any impurities while simmering.

Separate meat and broth

Remove meat, reserve broth, and set aside.

Preparing the Peanut Sauce

Heat oil and add annatto

In a pan, heat oil and add annatto powder, stirring until color is released.

Combine sauce ingredients

Add peanut butter, fish sauce, and toasted rice flour.

Incorporate broth

Gradually whisk in reserved beef broth until smooth and thickened.

Ensure the rice flour is thoroughly toasted to avoid a raw taste. Adjust consistency by adding more broth if necessary.

Cooking Process

Simmer the Sauce

Combine the peanut sauce with meat and simmer for 15 minutes.

Cook Vegetables

Blanch vegetables separately in boiling water for 5 minutes and set aside.

Prepare Shrimp Paste

Sauté shrimp paste in oil, add sugar and vinegar, and cook until fragrant.

Plating & Serving

Hearty Filipino Kare-Kare with Peanuts and Shrimp Paste

FaUtensils

Serve

Serve Kare-Kare hot in a large bowl. Arrange the vegetables on top and serve with a side of shrimp paste for a complete experience.

Sauce Pairings

Shrimp Paste

a salty, umami-packed condiment

Extra Peanut Sauce

for added richness

Garnishes & Accompaniments

Chopped peanutsFresh coriander

Perfect Sides

Steamed Jasmine rice

Pickled vegetables