In a large soup pot, add the ribeye chunks and water (or beef broth if you prefer a richer flavor). Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow the meat to simmer gently for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef becomes tender and the broth is infused with its flavors.

As the meat cooks, you may notice some scum or impurities floating to the surface. Skim these off with a ladle or spoon to keep the broth clear and clean.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Once the beef is tender, add the onion halves, potatoes, carrots, and corn (if using) to the pot. Continue to simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Ribeye Nilaga Recipe

Step 4: Season the Broth

Season the broth with fish sauce, peppercorns, salt, and pepper to taste. The fish sauce provides a savory umami flavor that’s key to traditional Nilaga, while the peppercorns add a subtle warmth to the broth. Adjust the seasoning based on your preferences.

Step 5: Add the Cabbage and Green Beans

Once the vegetables are tender, add the cabbage and green beans (if using) to the pot. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cabbage is wilted and tender but still vibrant in color.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with additional fish sauce, salt, or pepper if necessary. If you prefer a tangier broth, you can squeeze in some calamansi juice or a few drops of lime juice at this point.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the Ribeye Nilaga into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous amount of tender beef, vegetables, and flavorful broth. For an authentic Filipino experience, serve it with steamed rice on the side. If desired, offer chili peppers and extra calamansi or lime for added zest and spice.

Why Ribeye Nilaga Is Perfect for Any Day

Ribeye Nilaga is the kind of dish that’s perfect for a cozy weekend meal, but it’s also great for a weeknight dinner when you want something comforting. The beauty of Nilaga lies in its simplicity, but the addition of ribeye steaks makes this version a standout. Here are a few reasons why Ribeye Nilaga is so special:

1. Rich and Flavorful Broth: The ribeye’s marbling imparts a deep, savory flavor to the broth, making it even more delicious than the traditional Nilaga.
2. Tender Meat: The ribeye becomes incredibly tender after simmering, giving you melt-in-your-mouth bites that pair perfectly with the soft vegetables.
3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe based on your preferences or what vegetables you have on hand. Add more leafy greens, root vegetables, or even plantains for a more authentic Filipino twist.
4. Comforting and Hearty: The combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth makes Ribeye Nilaga the ultimate comfort food, especially on a cold day.
5. Easy to Make: Despite its rich flavors, this dish requires minimal effort and can be made in just a couple of hours, making it an easy yet impressive meal.

Final Thoughts: A Hearty Dish for Every Occasion

Ribeye Nilaga is more than just a soup—it’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. With its melt-in-your-mouth beef, savory broth, and hearty vegetables, it’s the perfect meal to share with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for something satisfying on a chilly day or a dish that brings a taste of Filipino tradition to your home, Ribeye Nilaga is sure to impress.

Try this recipe next time you’re craving something hearty and delicious—you won’t be disappointed!