Simple Beef Mechado
Beef Mechado is a classic Filipino beef stew simmered in a rich, savory tomato-based sauce with tender beef chunks, carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers. This comforting dish gets its deep flavor from a blend of soy sauce, lemon juice, and spices, creating a perfect balance of tangy and savory notes. Slow-cooked until the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, it pairs wonderfully with a bowl of steamed white rice. The addition of Thai chili gives it an optional spicy kick, making it even more flavorful. Perfect for family meals, this hearty Filipino favorite is a must-try for stew lovers!
Ingredients:
1 kg beef chunks
⅓ cup soy sauce
½ sliced lemon (juice)
Ground black pepper to taste
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 medium potatoes, cubed
1 large green bell pepper, chopped
Cooking oil
180g tomato sauce
1 beef broth cube
1 Thai chili (optional, for spice)
4 pcs bay leaves
Water
Instructions:
Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine beef chunks, soy sauce, lemon juice, and black pepper. Mix well and marinate for 1 hour for deeper flavor.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat cooking oil in a pan. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 1 minute.
Simmer the Beef: Add bay leaves and the leftover marinade sauce. Stir, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Build the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well. Add 2 cups of water, beef broth cube, and Thai chili. Cover and let it simmer for 40 minutes to 1 hour or until the beef is tender. (Add water if needed.)
Add Vegetables: Toss in the carrots and potatoes, cooking until soft. Finally, add the bell peppers and simmer until the sauce thickens.
Serve hot with rice and enjoy this comforting, flavorful Beef Mechado!
BeefMechado, FilipinoRecipe, HeartyStew, ComfortFood, BeefStew, TomatoBased, SavoryDishes, EasyDinner, HomeCooking, AsianCuisine
