Filipino Beef Stew (Nilagang Baka) – A Tender, Hearty, and Flavorful Soup That Will Warm Your Soul

If you're in search of a heartwarming and comforting stew with melt-in-your-mouth beef and tender vegetables, this Filipino Beef Stew (Nilagang Baka) is the perfect dish. Simmered to perfection, the beef is tender and flavorful, while the vegetables add a touch of sweetness and texture to every bite. Serve it with steamed rice and a side of fish sauce for a truly authentic experience that brings the rich, comforting flavors of the Philippines to your table.

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Filipino Beef Stew (Nilagang Baka)

Nilagang Baka is a traditional Filipino soup that’s all about simplicity, with its main ingredients being beef, vegetables, and broth. But don't let its simplicity fool you—this dish is packed with deep, savory flavors. The beef is simmered slowly until it’s tender and falling apart, while vegetables like potatoes, green beans, and cabbage absorb the broth's rich flavors. The result is a hearty, nutritious stew that’s enjoyed as a staple comfort food in many Filipino households.

Why You'll Love Filipino Beef Stew

This stew is a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for family meals or Sunday dinners. The beef, seasoned with fish sauce and aromatics, cooks low and slow until it’s tender and juicy. The vegetables, added toward the end, retain their shape and texture, giving the dish a colorful and satisfying bite. Whether you’re serving it with steamed rice or just enjoying it on its own, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it's easy to make and doesn’t require fancy ingredients!

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Protein: 28g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fiber: 5g

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Filipino Beef Stew (Nilagang Baka) is best served with steamed rice to soak up the rich, flavorful broth. To complement the dish, serve a side of fish sauce as a dipping sauce, allowing diners to adjust the saltiness of their soup. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of garlicky sautéed vegetables or toasted bread to pair with the stew. You can also serve the soup with a refreshing mango salad to balance the savory flavors of the beef with a sweet, fruity side.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stew in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also freeze this dish by storing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much after freezing.

Fun Fact: The Origins of Nilagang Baka

Nilagang Baka (which translates to "boiled beef") is a dish that has been passed down through generations in Filipino households. It’s a simple yet nourishing dish that reflects the Filipino love for hearty, home-cooked meals. The use of fish sauce in the broth adds a depth of umami flavor that is unique to Southeast Asian cuisine, making it a standout compared to other stews.

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Cooking Tips

• Tenderizing the Beef: Don’t skip the baking soda step! This helps tenderize the beef so it’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious after simmering.
• Use Fresh Vegetables: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh vegetables like carrots, green beans, and cabbage. They’ll maintain their firmness and sweetness even after cooking in the broth.
• Pressure Cooker Method: If you're short on time, use a pressure cooker to speed up the cooking process. Cook the beef for 45 minutes on high pressure and simmer the vegetables separately.

Optional Variations

• Spicy Stew: For a spicy kick, add a few whole chili peppers to the broth as it simmers. Remove them before serving to avoid too much heat.
• Hearty Additions: Add other vegetables like corn on the cob or bok choy for extra flavor and texture. You can also add sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
• Bone Broth Base: For a richer broth, use beef bone broth instead of water. This will add a deep, savory flavor to the stew.

Filipino Beef Stew Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef chuck stew meat, cubed
• 2 pounds beef short ribs
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large white or yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
• 10 cups water (or enough to fully cover the meats and vegetables)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (such as Red Boat)
• 2 medium yellow potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced
• 8 ounces green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1/4 pound green cabbage, cut into wedges
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Optional for serving: Steamed rice, additional fish sauce for adjusting flavor

Instructions:

1. Prepare the beef: Rinse the beef chuck cubes and short ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Sprinkle the baking soda evenly over the meat and let it marinate for 30 minutes to help tenderize the beef. After 30 minutes, rinse off the baking soda and pat the beef dry again.
2. Cook the beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the beef cubes and short ribs to the pot and pour in the water until the meat is fully submerged. Stir in the fish sauce and bring the pot to a simmer. Cover and cook over medium heat for about 2 hours, until the beef is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
3. Cook the vegetables: After the beef has cooked for 2 hours, add the potatoes and carrots to the pot. Stir and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Next, add the green beans and cabbage, stirring gently to combine. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the greens are tender.
4. Season and serve: Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the meat, vegetables, and broth into bowls. Garnish with the green parts of the chopped scallions. Serve piping hot with steamed rice and a side of fish sauce for adjusting the flavor.

Filipino Beef Stew (Nilagang Baka) is a heartwarming dish that combines tender beef and vegetables in a flavorful broth. It’s easy to make and perfect for a family meal. The addition of fish sauce gives the broth a unique umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the beef. Whether you enjoy it with rice or on its own, this stew is sure to become a staple in your household. Enjoy!