Hearty Filipino Beef Mechado Recipe 🍲

Warm up your kitchen with this soul-satisfying Filipino Beef Mechado, a rich and savory beef stew packed with tender beef chunks, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy tomato-based sauce. This classic dish, beloved in Filipino households, is perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. The combination of marinated beef, aromatic spices, and hearty vegetables creates a comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor. Follow this detailed recipe to bring a taste of the Philippines to your table! 😋

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Marinade:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) beef chunks (chuck or brisket works well)
• ⅓ cup soy sauce
• Juice of ½ lemon (about 2 tbsp)
• 1 tsp ground black pepper

For the Stew:

• 3 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 large green bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 180g (¾ cup) tomato sauce
• 1 beef broth cube
• 4 dried bay leaves
• 1-2 Thai chilies (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 2-3 cups water (adjust as needed)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef:
   In a large bowl, combine the beef chunks, soy sauce, lemon juice, and ground black pepper. Toss to coat the beef evenly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator (or overnight for deeper flavor). This step tenderizes the beef and infuses it with a tangy, savory taste.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Heat 3 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until the garlic is golden and the onion is soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. The aroma will set the stage for a flavorful stew!
3. Cook the Beef:
   Add the marinated beef chunks to the pot, reserving the marinade. Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to brown the edges. This step locks in the juices and enhances the dish’s depth of flavor. Pour in the reserved marinade and add the bay leaves. Stir to combine, then cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Build the Stew:
   Stir in the tomato sauce, ensuring it coats the beef evenly. Add 2 cups of water and the beef broth cube, stirring until the cube dissolves. If you’re craving a bit of heat, toss in 1-2 Thai chilies (adjust to your spice preference). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 40 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender. Check occasionally, adding more water (½ cup at a time) if the sauce reduces too much.
5. Add the Vegetables:
   Once the beef is fork-tender, add the carrots and potatoes. Stir to combine, then cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft but not mushy. Add the green bell pepper slices and cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly while retaining a bit of crunch. The sauce should be thick and glossy by now, coating the beef and vegetables beautifully.
6. Taste and Adjust:
   Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce it further.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Remove the bay leaves and chilies (if used) before serving. Ladle the Beef Mechado into a large serving dish or individual bowls. Serve hot with steamed rice to soak up the rich, savory sauce. For an authentic Filipino touch, pair it with a side of pickled vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Beef Cut: Opt for chuck, brisket, or short ribs for tender, melt-in-your-mouth results. These cuts hold up well to slow cooking.
• Customize the Heat: If Thai chilies are too spicy, skip them or use a pinch of red pepper flakes for a milder kick.
• Make It Ahead: Mechado tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans or red bell peppers for extra color and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef Mechado is a celebration of Filipino comfort food, blending tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors in every bite. The tender beef, hearty vegetables, and thick tomato sauce make it a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for cozy family meals or festive occasions. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, so cleanup is a breeze!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with fluffy white rice or garlic fried rice for a true Filipino experience.
• Pair with a light dessert like leche flan or these Vanilla Custard Cream Squares (recipe shared previously!) to balance the savory richness.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or scallions for a pop of color.

Ready to try this Filipino classic? Save this recipe and share your Mechado creations in the comments below! What’s your favorite way to enjoy a hearty beef stew? 🍴 #FilipinoFood #BeefMechado #ComfortFood