Craving a dish that explodes with flavor and delivers a satisfying kick? Look no further than Beef Bicol, a classic Filipino stew that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. This rich and creamy dish combines tender beef with vibrant vegetables, all simmered in a luscious coconut milk sauce infused with fiery chili peppers and fragrant shrimp paste (bagoong alamang). Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through creating an authentic and unforgettable Beef Bicol experience.
Beef Bicol is a culinary masterpiece originating from the Bicol region of the Philippines, known for its love of all things spicy and creamy. This dish perfectly embodies the region’s bold flavors, offering a unique and satisfying taste experience that will leave you wanting more. It’s a fantastic way to introduce yourself to Filipino cuisine, especially if you’re a fan of spicy food. The combination of the rich coconut milk, the savory beef, and the fiery chili peppers creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
Beyond its incredible taste, Beef Bicol is also a relatively easy dish to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe simplifies the process, breaking down each step into manageable instructions that anyone can follow. We’ll guide you through selecting the best ingredients, mastering the techniques, and achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your newfound culinary skills!
Recipe Overview
Before we dive into the ingredients and instructions, let’s take a quick look at the key details of this Beef Bicol recipe:
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 25 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Servings | 6-8 servings |
| Difficulty | Medium |
Nutrition per Serving (Approximate)
Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is important. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving of this Beef Bicol recipe:
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Note: These values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Ingredients for the Perfect Beef Bicol
Now, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to create this delectable Beef Bicol. The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the final flavor, so choose fresh and high-quality options whenever possible.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef Chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes | 2 lbs |
| Coconut Milk (full-fat) | 2 cans (13.5 oz each) |
| Onion, chopped | 1 large |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Ginger, minced | 1 tablespoon |
| Shrimp Paste (Bagoong Alamang) | 2 tablespoons |
| Thai Chili Peppers, chopped (or more, to taste) | 5-10 (adjust to your spice preference) |
| Green Beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces | 1 cup |
| Bell Pepper (red, green, or yellow), sliced | 1 large |
| Long Beans (Sitaw), cut into 2-inch pieces | 1 cup |
| Water or Beef Broth | 1 cup |
| Cooking Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for creating your own authentic Beef Bicol. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious and flavorful meal in no time. Remember, cooking is an art, so don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to your liking.
- Prepare the Beef: Season the beef cubes generously with salt and black pepper. This simple step enhances the natural flavor of the beef and ensures that it’s well-seasoned throughout the cooking process.
- Sear the Beef: Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear each side of the beef until it’s nicely browned. Searing the beef creates a flavorful crust that adds depth to the dish. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. These aromatics form the base of the flavor profile for your Beef Bicol.
- Add Shrimp Paste and Chili Peppers: Stir in the shrimp paste (bagoong alamang) and chopped chili peppers. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the shrimp paste is fragrant. This step infuses the oil with the pungent aroma of the shrimp paste and the fiery heat of the chili peppers.
- Return the Beef to the Pot: Add the seared beef back to the pot. Pour in the coconut milk and water (or beef broth). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beef is tender. The longer you simmer the beef, the more tender and flavorful it will become. This slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Add the Vegetables: Once the beef is tender, add the green beans, bell pepper, and long beans (sitaw) to the pot. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Adding the vegetables towards the end ensures that they retain their vibrant color and texture.
- Season to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember to taste as you go, as the flavor of the dish will evolve throughout the cooking process.
- Serve Hot: Serve the Beef Bicol hot over steamed rice. The creamy, spicy sauce is perfectly complemented by the fluffy, absorbent rice.
Serving Suggestions
Beef Bicol is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
- Steamed Rice: The classic accompaniment to Beef Bicol is steamed white rice. The rice soaks up the flavorful sauce, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
- Garlic Fried Rice: For an extra layer of flavor, try serving Beef Bicol with garlic fried rice. The savory garlic complements the richness of the dish.
- Side Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Beef Bicol.
- Grilled Eggplant: Grilled eggplant adds a smoky and savory element to the meal. Its earthy flavor pairs well with the spicy and creamy sauce.
- Fried Plantains: The sweetness of fried plantains provides a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the Beef Bicol.
The key to delicious Beef Bicol lies in the slow simmering process and the balance of flavors. Don’t rush the cooking time, and feel free to adjust the amount of chili peppers to suit your spice preference. Beef Bicol is a true testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines, offering a unique and satisfying taste experience that will leave you craving for more. So, gather your ingredients, follow these instructions, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
Making **Beef Bicol** for the first time can be a little intimidating, but the end result is well worth the effort. The key is to balance the spiciness with the richness of the coconut milk. Adjust the number of chili peppers according to your preference. Remember, you can always add more spice, but it’s hard to take it away! Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables. Some people like to add potatoes or taro root to their **Beef Bicol**.
The shrimp paste (bagoong) is a crucial ingredient in **Beef Bicol**. It provides a unique umami flavor that’s hard to replicate. If you’re not a fan of shrimp paste, you can try substituting it with fish sauce, but the flavor will be slightly different. A good quality coconut milk is also essential for a creamy and delicious **Beef Bicol**.
One important tip for cooking **Beef Bicol** is to sear the beef properly before adding it to the pot. This helps to seal in the juices and gives the beef a nice, browned flavor. Also, make sure to simmer the beef in the coconut milk for a long enough time, so it becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Patience is key when making **Beef Bicol**!
**Beef Bicol** is a dish that gets better with time. The flavors meld together even more after it’s been refrigerated overnight. So, if you’re planning to serve it for a special occasion, consider making it a day ahead. When reheating **Beef Bicol**, add a little bit of water or coconut milk to prevent it from drying out.
**Beef Bicol** is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. The combination of the spicy, creamy, and savory flavors is truly unforgettable. It’s a dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, next time you’re looking for a flavorful and exciting meal, give **Beef Bicol** a try. You won’t be disappointed!
If you find the **Beef Bicol** too spicy, serve it with a side of atchara (pickled papaya) or cucumber salad. The acidity of the atchara and the coolness of the cucumber will help to balance the heat. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the **Beef Bicol** to make it creamier and less spicy.
Some variations of **Beef Bicol** include adding pork or chicken to the dish. You can also use different types of chili peppers, depending on your spice preference. For a milder version, use bell peppers instead of chili peppers. For a spicier version, use bird’s eye chili peppers or habanero peppers. Always handle chili peppers with care and wash your hands thoroughly after handling them.
The key to a truly great **Beef Bicol** is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. This will make a huge difference in the flavor of the dish. Whenever possible, use fresh coconut milk instead of canned coconut milk. Fresh coconut milk has a richer and more authentic flavor. Also, use fresh vegetables instead of frozen vegetables. Fresh vegetables have a better texture and flavor.
Enjoy the rich and vibrant flavors of this incredible Filipino dish, **Beef Bicol**! Remember to have fun in the kitchen and don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and techniques. With a little practice, you’ll be making **Beef Bicol** like a pro in no time! The creamy coconut milk, the tender beef, and the fiery chili peppers create a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the heart of the Bicol region. This **Beef Bicol** recipe is sure to become a family favorite, bringing warmth and flavor to your table.
Beef Bicol is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of Filipino culture and culinary heritage. It’s a dish that’s meant to be shared with loved ones, creating lasting memories around the dinner table. Each spoonful of **Beef Bicol** tells a story, a story of tradition, family, and the love of good food. So, gather your family and friends, prepare this delicious **Beef Bicol**, and create your own unforgettable memories.
Notes and Tips
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your desired spice level. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed.
- Shrimp Paste: If you’re not familiar with shrimp paste, start with a smaller amount and taste as you go. It has a strong flavor that can be overpowering if used excessively.
- Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk is recommended for the creamiest and most flavorful sauce.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables that you enjoy, such as potatoes or squash.
- Make Ahead: Beef Bicol can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors will actually improve as it sits.
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