Beef Caldereta (Slow Cooker or Stove Top)

When it comes to Filipino comfort food, one dish that always takes center stage is Beef Caldereta.

Beef Caldereta (Kalderetang Baka) is a Filipino tomato-based stew whose name is derived from the Spanish term “caldera” which means cauldron. This rich and flavorful stew has become a staple in Filipino households, with its hearty combination of tender beef, vegetables, and a savory tomato-based sauce.

This recipe is a simple version of Beef Caldereta and one that we often cook from memory!

Today we will present an effortless and tasty Filipino Beef Caldereta recipe that you can experiment with at home using only one pot on the stovetop or with a frying pan and slow cooker.

You will discover the recipe along with some useful tips and alterations to personalize it!

Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious and comforting meal! Explore our Filipino recipes for more!

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Table of Contents

Exploring the History of Beef Caldereta

It is commonly believed that Caldereta originated from the Spanish influence in Filipino cuisine. The Spanish occupied and colonized the Philippines for over 300 years, and their culinary traditions left a lasting impact on Filipino cooking.

Traditionally, Caldereta is made using goat meat, but over time, beef became a more popular choice due to its availability and affordability.

Today, Caldereta is widely enjoyed in the Philippines, with different variations and adaptations across regions. As a household favorite, most Filipino families have their own version of Beef Caldereta.

Beef Caldereta is also meal-prep friendly and potluck friendly! For this reason, caldereta is served not only on casual weeknights but also on special occasions and fiestas, making it a truly beloved dish in Filipino culture.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Beef Caldereta

Here are some cooking tips to help you achieve the perfect Beef Caldereta, whether you’re making it for an easy weeknight dinner or a festive occasion:

• Use a frozen mixed vegetable medley such as peas, carrots, and green beans to pack in the veggies and save time on prepping.
• Pat dry the beef, lightly salt, and sear it before adding it to the stew to enhance the flavor and retain the moisture in the meat.
• Opt for lean cuts of beef, such as round, chuck, or sirloin, for a tender and healthier result. If you are aiming for a richer and fattier flavor, you can use beef containing more fat and collagen, such as fatty brisket, bone-in short ribs or beef shank.
• Use low-sodium beef broth or homemade beef stock to control the saltiness of the dish and to allow the other flavors to shine through.

Customizing Your Beef Caldereta Recipe

Caldereta comes in many variations depending on personal preferences and regional influences. We took some time to ask others about their favorite ways and also did some internet research to gather ideas for customizing your Beef Caldereta recipe.

Here are some ingredient suggestions for customizing your Beef Caldereta recipe:

• liver pate
• pineapple juice and shredded cheese
• smooth peanut butter
• cornstarch to thicken the sauce
• coconut milk
• olives
• chili peppers
• hot sauce (ie. tabasco, sriracha, etc.)

We invite you to explore these variations and incorporate your own twist to make it uniquely yours. Remember there is no wrong way to make Beef Caldereta, as everyone who makes it adds their own personal touch to the dish!

Ingredients Needed for Beef Caldereta

• 2 lbs beef stew beef, chuck, bone-in short rib, etc.
• kosher salt for seasoning
• 1 onion chopped
• 6 cloves garlic chopped or whole
• 1 can tomato sauce
• ¼ cup tomato paste
• 2 cups low sodium beef broth
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 potatoes chopped
• 2 carrots peeled and cut
• ¼ cup peas
• 2 bell peppers chopped
• black pepper to taste

Step by Step Guide to Making Beef Caldereta

Prepare the Beef

1. Pat dry the beef and lightly salt.
2. Sear the beef for 1-2 minutes on high heat. Set aside.

Make Beef Caldereta in Slow Cooker

1. In the slow cooker, add in seared beef, onion, garlic, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and bay leaves. Set on low for 6-8 hours.

2. 2 hours before serving, add the potatoes and carrots.
3. 30 minutes before serving, add the peas and bell pepper.
4. When cooking time ends, check each ingredient for fork tenderness. Adjust salt and black pepper to taste. Serve with white rice.

Note 1. Stovetop Method Instructions:

1. Pat dry the beef and lightly salt.
2. In a pot on medium high heat, heat up cooking oil. Cook the beef, onion, and garlic for 1-2 minutes until seared and aromatic.
3. Add potatoes and carrots. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and bay leaves.
5. Bring the pot to a boil. Adjust heat to a low simmer and let it cook covered for 1.5-2 hours.
6. 10 minutes before serving, add the peas and bell peppers.
7. When cooking time ends, check each ingredient for fork tenderness. Adjust salt and black pepper to taste. Serve with white rice.

Serving Suggestions for Beef Caldereta

The best way to serve Beef Caldereta is with steamed white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. We also love serving it with freshly made pandesal so we can dip it in the sauce and scrape up every last drop from the plate.

Beef Caldereta is often a component of a Filipino feast during celebrations. Serve it alongside other main dishes like pancit, lumpia, and adobo or side dishes like chop suey and ensaladang pipino.

Here are a more food suggestions to complete your meal:

Final Thoughts

Embrace the comfort of this iconic Filipino dish! Make a huge pot of this beef and tomato stew for your friends and family, and let its flavors transport you to the joys of home-cooked meals and shared moments with loved ones.

We hope you enjoy this recipe! Share your creations on Instagram and tag us @itsforkandspoon!

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References & Further Reading

Daza, Nora & Mariles. “Calderetta.” Galing Galing Philippine Cuisine. Manila, National Book Store, Inc. 1974. Page 54.

https://www.seriouseats.com/best-cut-beef-stew-braise

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaldereta

https://www.food.com/recipe/beef-caldereta-148251