Easy Beef Pares Recipe – Just Like Street Food

Beef pares is one of the most beloved Filipino comfort foods, often served as a hearty meal alongside garlic fried rice and a perfectly soft-boiled egg. This dish, with its rich and savory braised beef in a soy sauce-based broth, evokes memories of street food stalls and family gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting to explore Filipino cuisine, this beef pares recipe will guide you step-by-step to recreate the authentic flavors of this classic dish right in your kitchen.

In this article, we’ll delve into the origins of beef pares , share tips for preparing tender beef, and provide a detailed recipe that ensures your dish tastes just like the ones sold by street vendors. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to master this Filipino beef pares recipe and impress your family and friends.

What is Beef Pares?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s first understand what makes beef pares so special. The term “pares” refers to paired or matched items, but in Filipino cuisine, it specifically denotes tender braised beef served with garlic rice and a soft-boiled egg. It’s a popular choice among Filipinos, especially during late-night cravings or breakfasts after a long night out.

The highlight of this dish is the beef, which is slow-cooked until it reaches a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. A flavorful blend of soy sauce, garlic, star anise, and other spices creates a rich umami broth that complements the beef beautifully. While traditionally sold as street food, many households now enjoy making their own version of beef pares Filipino recipe at home.

Historical Context of Beef Pares

The origins of beef pares can be traced back to the influence of Chinese immigrants in the Philippines. Many Filipino dishes, including lumpia (spring rolls) and pancit (noodles), bear traces of Chinese culinary traditions. Similarly, beef pares draws inspiration from Chinese braising techniques, where meat is simmered in a savory-sweet liquid infused with aromatic spices.

Over time, Filipinos adapted the dish to suit local tastes, incorporating ingredients like calamansi (a citrus fruit native to the Philippines) and star anise. Today, pares has become an essential part of Filipino street food culture, enjoyed by individuals from all backgrounds.

QUICK RECIPE CARD

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Difficulty Level: Easy

Servings: 4-6 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 18g
Sodium: 800mg
Sugar: 8g

Equipment Needed:

• Large pot or Dutch oven with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs (optional, for handling beef)
• Ladle (for serving)

This quick recipe card provides all the essential details for preparing your pares recipe efficiently while keeping things organized. Enjoy cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare this beef pares recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Beef:

• 2 lbs (about 1 kg) beef chuck or brisket, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup calamansi juice (or lemon/lime juice if calamansi isn’t available)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
• 2 pieces star anise
• 4 cups beef broth (or water mixed with beef bouillon cubes)

For Serving:

• Steamed white rice
• Garlic fried rice (optional but highly recommended)
• Soft-boiled eggs

With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make this Filipino beef pares recipe:

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Begin by warming the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and sear them on all sides until they develop a golden-brown crust.This process seals in the juices and enhances the dish’s flavor profile. After searing, take the beef out of the pot and set it aside.

Searing the beef is crucial because it caramelizes the surface, creating a layer of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Take care not to overcrowd the pot, as this can cause the beef to steam instead of sear, resulting in less browning.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté them until they turn translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can develop a bitter taste.

Onions and garlic are essential components of Filipino cooking, providing a strong aromatic base for countless dishes. Their sweetness and pungency balance out the saltiness of the soy sauce and the richness of the beef.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Return the seared beef to the pot. Pour in the soy sauce, calamansi juice, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine and coat the beef evenly with the marinade. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Calamansi juice plays a critical role in this beef pares recipe , adding a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the beef and soy sauce. If you can’t find fresh calamansi, substitute it with freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice for a similar effect.

Step 4: Braise the Beef

Add the beef broth, peppercorns, and star anise to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat. Cover the pot and allow the beef to braise for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it is fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.

Braising is a slow-cooking technique that involves simmering meat in a flavorful liquid. This method breaks down tough fibers in the beef, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy meat. Patience is key here—rushing the process can lead to chewy or dry beef.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Sample the broth and modify the seasoning as necessary. If you desire a sweeter flavor, incorporate additional brown sugar. For extra saltiness, a splash of soy sauce should do the trick.

Seasoning adjustments are important to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. Every palate is different, so feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve the beef pares hot with steamed rice or garlic fried rice. Top each serving with a soft-boiled egg for added richness. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Garlic fried rice is a staple accompaniment for beef pares , offering a crispy texture and bold garlic flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender beef. To make garlic fried rice, simply sauté minced garlic in oil, add cooked rice, and stir-fry until heated through.

Tips for Perfect Beef Pares

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef : Opt for cuts like chuck or brisket, which are ideal for slow-cooking. These cuts become incredibly tender when braised and absorb the flavors of the broth beautifully.
2. Don’t Rush the Braising Process : Slow-cooking is key to achieving melt-in-your-mouth beef. Avoid turning up the heat to speed things along, as this could result in tough meat.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients : Fresh garlic, onions, and calamansi juice elevate the dish significantly. If calamansi isn’t available, use fresh lemon or lime juice instead of bottled alternatives.
4. Enhance the Broth : For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of oyster sauce or a dash of Chinese five-spice powder to the broth.
5. Experiment with Side Dishes : While garlic fried rice and soft-boiled eggs are traditional accompaniments, feel free to pair the beef pares with other sides like pickled vegetables or crispy fried shallots.

Why This Beef Pares Recipe Works

This beef pares recipe captures the essence of Filipino street food culture while being easy enough for beginners to follow. The combination of soy sauce, calamansi juice, and spices creates a harmonious balance of salty, tangy, and sweet flavors. Moreover, the slow-cooking method ensures that the beef remains juicy and tender, making every bite a delight.

Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or looking to introduce someone to Filipino cuisine, this Filipino beef pares recipe is sure to satisfy. Its versatility also allows for customization, letting you tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences.

Variations of Beef Pares

While the classic beef pares recipe remains a favorite, there are several ways to put a spin on this dish:

• Spicy Beef Pares : Add sliced chili peppers or a teaspoon of chili flakes to the broth for a fiery kick.
• Herb-Infused Beef Pares : Incorporate fresh herbs like lemongrass or Thai basil for an aromatic twist.
• Low-Carb Option : Serve the beef over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a keto-friendly alternative.

The Importance of Calamansi in Filipino Cuisine

One ingredient that stands out in this beef pares recipe is calamansi. Known as the “Philippine lime,” calamansi is a small citrus fruit with a unique sour-sweet flavor. It’s widely used in Filipino cooking to brighten up soups, marinades, and sauces.In beef pares, the addition of calamansi juice not only balances the saltiness of the soy sauce but also brings a refreshing tang that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.

If you’ve never tried calamansi before, keep an eye out for it at Asian grocery stores or specialty markets. Alternatively, you can grow your own calamansi tree if you live in a warm climate—it’s a rewarding addition to any garden!

Pairing Suggestions for Beef Pares

Although garlic fried rice and soft-boiled eggs are traditional accompaniments for beef pares, there are many other options to consider. Here are some ideas:

• Pickled Papaya (Atchara) : This sweet-and-sour relish made from shredded green papaya provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of beef pares .
• Crispy Fried Shallots : Sprinkle some crispy fried shallots over your dish for added crunch and flavor.
• Steamed Vegetables : Serve a side of steamed broccoli or bok choy to round out the meal.

Conclusion

There’s something truly magical about beef pares , a dish that embodies the warmth and vibrancy of Filipino cuisine. With its tender beef, flavorful broth, and comforting accompaniments, it’s no wonder this dish has captured the hearts of many. By following this beef pares recipe , you can bring the spirit of Filipino street food into your home and create unforgettable meals for yourself and your loved ones.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare to whip up something amazing. Whether you’re new to Filipino cooking or a seasoned pro, this Filipino beef pares recipe promises to deliver delicious results every time. Relish the rich flavors, cherish the memories, and embrace the pleasure of sharing delicious food with those around you.

Final Note

If you enjoyed this beef pares recipe , don’t hesitate to experiment with other Filipino dishes. From adobo to sinigang, the world of Filipino cuisine offers endless possibilities for exploration. Happy cooking!

FAQ Section

What is beef pares, and how is it different from other Filipino dishes?

Beef pares is a savory Filipino dish featuring tender braised beef in a soy sauce-based broth, often served with garlic fried rice and a soft-boiled egg. Unlike adobo or sinigang, which focus on distinct sour or salty flavors, beef pares recipe offers a balanced mix of sweet, tangy, and umami notes. It’s a comforting meal that captures the essence of Filipino street food culture.

Can I use a different cut of beef for this beef pares recipe?

Yes! While beef chuck or brisket is recommended for their tenderness, you can also use short ribs or oxtail. Just ensure the cut is suitable for slow-cooking to achieve the melt-in-your-mouth texture central to a great Filipino beef pares recipe .

What can I substitute for calamansi juice in this recipe?

If calamansi isn’t available, fresh lemon or lime juice works perfectly as a substitute. These citrus options provide the same tangy flavor essential to balancing the rich broth in your beef pares Filipino recipe .

How can I make beef pares spicier?

To add heat, include sliced chili peppers or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes while simmering the broth. This tweak gives your beef pares recipe a fiery kick without compromising its authentic taste.

Can I prepare beef pares ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, letting the beef marinate in the broth overnight enhances the flavors. Reheat gently before serving to enjoy an even tastier Filipino beef pares recipe .

Is beef pares gluten-free?

Traditional recipes use soy sauce, which contains gluten. However, you can opt for tamari or coconut aminos as substitutes to make your beef pares recipe gluten-free.

What sides pair best with beef pares?

Garlic fried rice and soft-boiled eggs are classics, but steamed vegetables or pickled papaya (atchara) also complement the dish beautifully. These additions complete your beef pares Filipino recipe experience.