Simple Beef Mechado

Why Make This Recipe

Beef Mechado is a delicious and comforting dish that many people enjoy. It is a classic Filipino stew that combines tender beef with vegetables and rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it offers a hearty meal that is sure to satisfy everyone. The best part is that it is easy to make, and with simple ingredients, you can create something special.

How to Make Simple Beef Mechado

Ingredients

• 1 kilogram beef chunks
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 sliced lemon (juice)
• Ground black pepper
• 5 cloves garlic
• 1 medium onion
• 2 carrots
• 2 medium potatoes
• 1 large green bell pepper
• Cooking oil
• 180g tomato sauce
• 1 beef broth cube
• Thai chili
• 4 bay leaves
• Water

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine the beef, soy sauce, lemon juice, and ground black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for 1 hour. Set aside the marinade sauce.
2. In a pan, heat some cooking oil. Sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant.
3. Add the marinated beef to the pan and sauté for about a minute.
4. Add the bay leaves and the marinade sauce. Stir everything together.
5. Cover the pan and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. After 20 minutes, add the tomato sauce and mix well.
7. Pour in 2 cups of water, then add the beef broth cube and Thai chili. Stir to combine.
8. Cover the pan again and let it cook for 40 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender. Feel free to add more water if it gets too thick.
9. Once the beef is tender, add the carrots and potatoes. Cook until they are soft.
10. Finally, add the bell pepper and cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens.

How to Serve Simple Beef Mechado

Serve the Beef Mechado hot with steamed rice. The rich sauce goes perfectly with the rice, making every bite delicious. You can also garnish with fresh herbs or serve with a side of your favorite vegetables.

How to Store Simple Beef Mechado

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep the Beef Mechado in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for a longer time, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezer.

Tips to Make Simple Beef Mechado

• Ensure the beef is tender by cooking it slowly. You can also use a pressure cooker to speed up the process.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. If you like it spicier, add more Thai chili or even some red pepper flakes.
• For a brighter flavor, add some chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Variation

You can add other vegetables like green beans or peas for a twist. Some people also like to include olives for additional flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use pork or chicken instead of beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as they may cook faster.

2. Is Beef Mechado spicy?
Not necessarily, but you can control the spice level by adding more or less Thai chili based on your preference.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Beef Mechado tastes even better the next day after the flavors have time to develop. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Simple Beef Mechado

A classic Filipino stew that combines tender beef with vegetables and rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 2 hours hrs

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Filipino

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Marinade

• 1 kg beef chunks
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 piece lemon (juice)
• Ground black pepper to taste

Main Ingredients

• 5 cloves garlic minced
• 1 medium onion sliced
• 2 pieces carrots sliced
• 2 medium potatoes cubed
• 1 large green bell pepper sliced
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil for sautéing
• 180 g tomato sauce
• 1 cube beef broth
• 1 piece Thai chili optional, adjust for spice
• 4 pieces bay leaves
• Water as needed

Method

 

Marination

1. In a bowl, combine the beef, soy sauce, lemon juice, and ground black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for 1 hour. Set aside the marinade sauce.

Cooking

1. In a pan, heat some cooking oil. Sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant.
2. Add the marinated beef to the pan and sauté for about a minute.
3. Add the bay leaves and the marinade sauce. Stir everything together.
4. Cover the pan and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. After 20 minutes, add the tomato sauce and mix well.
6. Pour in 2 cups of water, then add the beef broth cube and Thai chili. Stir to combine.
7. Cover the pan again and let it cook for 40 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender. Feel free to add more water if it gets too thick.
8. Once the beef is tender, add the carrots and potatoes. Cook until they are soft.
9. Finally, add the bell pepper and cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens.

Notes

Serve the Beef Mechado hot with steamed rice. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month. Ensure the beef is tender by cooking slowly, or use a pressure cooker. Adjust seasoning to taste.