Beef Pares Recipe

Beef Pares recipe is a Filipino comfort food that combines tender beef, a rich, flavorful broth, and a hint of sweetness. Typically served with garlic fried rice and a side of broth, this dish is beloved for its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. This Beef Pares recipe will show you how to create a hearty, mouthwatering dish that will transport you straight to the streets of Manila.

Description

Beef Pares recipe is a popular Filipino dish that is typically served as a meal complete with rice and beef broth, offering a savory and sweet flavor combination. The dish is traditionally slow cooked to ensure the beef becomes tender and soaks up the delicious, rich flavors of the broth. Pares, which means “pair,” refers to how the dish is typically served with both beef stew and garlic fried rice, making it a satisfying and balanced meal.

The key to a perfect Beef Pares recipe is the use of high quality beef cuts, such as beef shank or brisket, which can be simmered for hours to achieve a tender, melt in your mouth texture. The sweet savory broth is typically flavored with soy sauce, star anise, garlic, and a touch of sugar, creating the signature taste that has made Beef Pares recipe a beloved street food in the Philippines.

Whether you’re making this dish for a family dinner, special occasion, or simply craving Filipino comfort food, this recipe ensures a flavorful and satisfying meal. Paired with crispy garlic rice, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone you serve it to. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step by step instructions for making Beef Pares at home.

Ingredients

For the Beef Pares Stew:

1.5 lbs (700g) beef shank or brisket, cut into 1.5 inch cubes
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 medium onion, chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 large star anise
1 tablespoon brown sugar
5 cups beef broth or water
1 teaspoon salt, to taste
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Garlic Fried Rice:

2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold or day old rice)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter or oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

Green onions, chopped
Fried garlic, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Stew

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Add the beef cubes to the pot and sear them for about 4-5 minutes, until the beef is browned on all sides.
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and star anise. Mix well to coat the beef.
Pour in the beef broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for 1.5-2 hours or until the beef is fork tender.
Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Fried Rice

In a separate pan, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
Add the cold rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to coat the rice with the garlic and oil.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.

Step 3: Serve the Beef Pares

Spoon the garlic fried rice onto plates, creating a bed for the beef stew.
Ladle the beef stew over the rice, making sure to include a good amount of broth and tender beef chunks.
Garnish with chopped green onions and, if desired, crispy fried garlic. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Beef Pares!

Notes:

Beef Cuts: You can also use beef short ribs or neck bones for a richer flavor, but beef shank or brisket is most commonly used in Beef Pares recipes.
Slow Cooker Option: For a hands off approach, you can prepare this dish in a slow cooker. After searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is tender.
Adjusting Sweetness: Beef Pares is known for its sweet savory flavor profile. If you prefer a sweeter broth, feel free to add a bit more sugar. Conversely, reduce the sugar for a more savory taste.
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with pickled vegetables or a side of lumpia (Filipino spring rolls) for a complete meal.