ADVERTISEMENT
# Simple Beef Mechado: A Delicious Filipino Stew
When it comes to Filipino cuisine, one of the most beloved dishes that epitomize comfort, tradition, and a burst of bold flavors is **Beef Mechado**. This rich, savory, and hearty stew is a classic Filipino favorite that has captured the hearts and palates of many. Often prepared during special occasions or family gatherings, Beef Mechado combines tender chunks of beef with a tomato-based sauce and an array of vegetables, making it a dish that is both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, making a simple Beef Mechado is a rewarding experience that brings people together around the table.
This article will dive deep into everything you need to know about **Simple Beef Mechado**. We will explore its history, the ingredients that make it so unique, the step-by-step process to prepare it, as well as variations and tips to elevate this classic dish. With this guide, you’ll be able to master the art of preparing Beef Mechado at home and share it with your family and friends for any occasion.
### What is Beef Mechado?
**Beef Mechado** is a Filipino stew traditionally made with beef chuck or beef brisket that’s simmered in a tomato-based sauce with a combination of onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sometimes potatoes or carrots. The dish is known for its rich and savory flavor, which is typically enhanced by the marination process and long cooking times, making the beef incredibly tender and flavorful. Mechado also stands out for its signature addition of **lard** (or pork fat) that gives the dish its signature richness and texture.
While there are many regional variations of Beef Mechado in the Philippines, the basic concept remains consistent across the country: tender beef slow-cooked in a hearty, flavorful sauce. The dish is typically served with steamed rice and sometimes accompanied by bread, as it is best enjoyed with something to soak up all that delicious sauce.
### The History of Beef Mechado
The origins of Beef Mechado are somewhat unclear, as is the case with many traditional Filipino dishes. However, its name suggests that it may have been influenced by Spanish cuisine. The word “Mechado” comes from the Spanish word “mecha,” meaning “wick” or “thread.” It is believed that the dish’s original form involved inserting strips of pork fat (or “mechas”) into the beef to tenderize the meat and add flavor as it cooked. Over time, the recipe evolved and adapted, especially with the introduction of local ingredients.
Beef Mechado is a testament to the Filipino culinary adaptation of foreign influences, especially during the Spanish colonization of the Philippines, which lasted for more than three centuries. Similar to other Filipino stews such as **Bistek Tagalog** (Filipino beef steak) or **Kaldereta** (another tomato-based beef stew), Beef Mechado is a flavorful dish that has become a staple in Filipino homes, often served during special occasions, holidays, or family get-togethers.
### Key Ingredients for Simple Beef Mechado
The beauty of **Simple Beef Mechado** lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Below is a list of the core ingredients you’ll need to make this dish:
#### 1. **Beef**:
The star of the dish is, of course, the beef. Typically, you’ll want to use beef chuck, brisket, or round cuts for their marbling and tenderness after slow cooking. These cuts are ideal for stewing and provide a melt-in-your-mouth texture when properly cooked.
#### 2. **Tomatoes**:
Tomatoes are an essential component in Beef Mechado, contributing to the rich, tangy base of the sauce. Fresh tomatoes or canned crushed tomatoes work equally well, though many people prefer using fresh tomatoes for a more vibrant flavor.
#### 3. **Onions and Garlic**:
A combination of onions and garlic is sautéed to create a savory base for the stew. Their aromatic flavors help infuse the meat and sauce with depth.
#### 4. **Soy Sauce**:
Soy sauce is often used in the marination process to tenderize the meat and infuse it with saltiness and umami. It also helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
#### 5. **Lemon or Calamansi**:
A squeeze of lemon or calamansi (a type of small citrus native to the Philippines) adds a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of the dish.
#### 6. **Pork Lard or Vegetable Oil**:
To add richness to the sauce and tenderize the beef, pork lard is traditionally used, but vegetable oil can be substituted for a lighter version.
#### 7. **Potatoes**:
Potatoes are a typical addition in Beef Mechado, providing extra heartiness to the stew. When cooked, they absorb the flavors of the sauce and add a creamy texture.
#### 8. **Carrots (Optional)**:
While not always included, some variations of Beef Mechado feature carrots, adding a natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory sauce.
#### 9. **Bay Leaves**:
Bay leaves are an important herb in Filipino stews, imparting a subtle aroma that complements the rich flavors of the beef.
#### 10. **Salt and Pepper**:
As with any dish, seasoning with salt and pepper is essential to bring out all the flavors.
### Instructions for Cooking Simple Beef Mechado
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step process of preparing **Simple Beef Mechado**. Follow these instructions to make a rich, hearty, and flavorful dish that will impress everyone around the dinner table.
#### Step 1: Marinate the Beef
The first step in making Beef Mechado is to marinate the beef in soy sauce, lemon (or calamansi), and some ground black pepper. This helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Let the beef marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, you can marinate it for several hours or even overnight for the best results.
#### Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the lard (or vegetable oil) over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté them until fragrant and softened. The goal here is to release the essential oils from the garlic and onions, creating a savory base for the stew.
#### Step 3: Brown the Beef
Once the onions and garlic have softened, add the marinated beef chunks to the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, allowing it to develop a rich, caramelized exterior. This step adds depth to the flavor of the dish, so don’t rush it. The beef should be nicely seared before moving on to the next step.
#### Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Bay Leaves
After browning the beef, add the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned crushed tomatoes) and bay leaves to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices. This creates the base of the sauce that will coat the beef.
#### Step 5: Simmer the Beef
Once the tomatoes have softened, add enough water (or beef broth, if you prefer) to cover the beef. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the beef simmer, covered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds. Stir occasionally to ensure the meat is cooking evenly and the sauce is thickening.
#### Step 6: Add the Potatoes (and Carrots)
After the beef has become tender, add the potatoes and carrots (if using) to the pot. Continue to simmer the stew until the potatoes are cooked through and tender, which should take an additional 20-30 minutes. At this point, the sauce should have thickened, and the potatoes should have absorbed the savory flavors of the broth.
#### Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference. If the sauce is too tangy, you can add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity. If the stew is too thick, add a little more water or beef broth to achieve your desired consistency.
#### Step 8: Serve
Once the beef is tender, the potatoes are cooked, and the flavors have melded together, your Beef Mechado is ready to serve! Ladle the stew into bowls, making sure to include some of the delicious sauce and vegetables. Serve with a side of hot steamed rice to soak up all the flavorful broth.
### Tips for Making the Perfect Beef Mechado
Here are some tips to elevate your Beef Mechado and ensure that it turns out perfectly every time:
1. **Use a Heavy Pot**: A heavy-bottomed pot, such as a Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet, is ideal for simmering Beef Mechado. It helps distribute heat evenly and prevents the sauce from scorching.
2. **Don’t Rush the Simmering Process**: The key to tender beef is slow cooking. Be patient and allow the beef to cook low and slow, so it becomes meltingly tender and full of flavor.
3. **Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor**: While potatoes are a classic addition to Beef Mechado, you can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, green beans, or peas. These will add extra color, texture, and nutrients to the dish.
4. **Use Beef Broth for Richer Flavor**: If you want a richer, more flavorful base for the stew, consider using beef broth instead of water. It will intensify the beefy flavor and make the sauce even more delicious.
5. **Don’t Skip the Marinating Step**: Marinating the beef in soy sauce, lemon, and pepper enhances the flavor and helps tenderize the meat. This step is crucial for a well-seasoned and tender stew.
For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends
