Kare-Kare is a Filipino stew dish made with oxtail and vegetables, cooked in a rich and creamy sauce. It is a popular and beloved dish in the Philippines, known for its unique combination of flavors and textures. Kare-Kare is often served during special occasions and gatherings, as it represents Filipino hospitality and tradition.

One of the key ingredients in Kare-Kare is oxtail, which adds a rich and meaty flavor to the dish. To achieve the perfect tenderness and taste, the oxtail needs to be cooked slowly and patiently. This article will guide you on how to cook Kare-Kare oxtail that is flavorful, tender, and sure to impress your family and friends.

Before you start cooking, it is important to have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready. You will need oxtail, garlic, onion, peanut butter, ground peanuts, achuete (annatto) powder, vegetable oil, fish sauce, salt, and various vegetables such as eggplant, long beans, and bok choy. You will also need a large pot, a frying pan, and a mixing bowl.

Tip: Soaking the oxtail in cold water for at least an hour before cooking helps remove any impurities and softens the meat.

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until they become fragrant and the onion becomes translucent. This will create a flavor base for your Kare-Kare.

Next, add the oxtail to the pot and brown it on all sides. This will enhance the flavor and give the meat a nice caramelized color. Once the oxtail is nicely browned, pour in enough water to cover the meat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about two to three hours, or until the oxtail becomes tender.

What is karekare oxtail?

Karekare is a traditional Filipino stew that is popular in the Philippines. It is made with oxtail, which is the culinary name for the tail of a cow. The dish is known for its rich and flavorful broth, tender meat, and the use of peanut sauce.

In Filipino cuisine, karekare is typically served with a side of bagoong, which is a fermented shrimp paste, and steamed rice. The peanut sauce in karekare is made by grinding roasted peanuts and combining it with garlic, onions, annatto seeds, and other various spices and ingredients.

The oxtail used in karekare is first braised until tender and then combined with the peanut sauce. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the oxtail to become tender and flavorful. The dish is usually simmered for a long period of time to fully develop the flavors.

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Ingredients:

  • Oxtail
  • Peanuts
  • Garlic
  • Onions
  • Annatto seeds
  • Peanut oil
  • Fish sauce
  • Salt and pepper
  • Bok choy or other leafy greens

Karekare oxtail is a comforting and hearty dish that is often enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings. Its unique combination of flavors and tender meat make it a beloved dish in Filipino cuisine.

The history of karekare oxtail

Karekare oxtail is a traditional dish from the Philippines that is known for its rich and flavorful taste. The dish originated from the rural areas of the country, where oxtail was often used as a more affordable alternative to other cuts of meat.

The history of karekare oxtail can be traced back to the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines. During this time, the Spanish introduced cattle to the islands, and oxtail became a popular ingredient in Filipino cuisine. The dish was traditionally cooked using a slow and simmering method, which allowed the meat to become tender and infused with the flavors of the spices and herbs used in the cooking process.

Over time, karekare oxtail has become a staple dish in Filipino households, especially during special occasions and celebrations. The dish is often served with a thick and creamy peanut sauce, which gives it a distinctive taste and texture. Other ingredients such as vegetables, bagoong (shrimp paste), and annatto seeds are also commonly added to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Today, karekare oxtail continues to be enjoyed by Filipinos all around the world. It has also gained popularity among non-Filipinos who have been introduced to the unique and delicious flavors of Filipino cuisine. The dish is often served with steamed rice, which helps to balance out the richness of the oxtail and peanut sauce.

In conclusion, the history of karekare oxtail traces back to the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines. It has evolved into a beloved dish that showcases the flavors and culinary traditions of the country. Whether enjoyed on special occasions or as a comforting meal at home, karekare oxtail is a dish that continues to bring people together through its delicious taste and rich history.

Ingredients

For the oxtail:

  • 2 pounds oxtail
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon annatto seeds
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 cup water

For the vegetables:

  • 1 eggplant, sliced
  • 1 bunch bok choy, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 bundle long beans, cut into 2-inch pieces

For garnish:

  • 2 tablespoons toasted crushed peanuts
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Note: Make sure to adjust the measurements according to the number of servings needed.

What do you need?

Before you start cooking karekare oxtail, make sure you have the following ingredients:

  • 2 pounds of oxtail
  • 3 tablespoons of cooking oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of achuete powder
  • 2 cups of beef broth
  • 1 cup of peanut butter
  • 1 bunch of bok choy (pechay)
  • 1 eggplant, cut into pieces
  • 12 pieces of long green beans
  • Salt and pepper to taste
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These ingredients are essential to creating the rich and flavorful karekare oxtail dish. Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you begin cooking to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Where to find the ingredients?

To cook karekare oxtail, you will need a few specific ingredients. Here are some places where you can find them:

  • Your local grocery store: Most grocery stores carry the necessary ingredients for karekare oxtail, such as oxtail, peanut butter, and vegetables like eggplant and bok choy.
  • Specialty Asian markets: If you want to find more authentic ingredients or if your local grocery store doesn’t have what you need, try visiting an Asian market. They often have a wider selection of ingredients, including specific Filipino brands of peanut butter and bagoong (shrimp paste).
  • Farmers’ markets: Depending on where you live, farmers’ markets can be a great place to find fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Look for farmers who specialize in providing meat, vegetables, and herbs.
  • Online stores: If you’re unable to find certain ingredients locally, there are many online stores that sell Filipino or Asian ingredients. Make sure to check the shipping policies and delivery times before placing an order.

With a bit of effort, you should be able to find all the ingredients you need to make a delicious karekare oxtail dish!

Preparation

Before starting to cook karekare oxtail, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready. This will help you stay organized and ensure a smooth cooking process.

Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

  • 2 lbs (900g) oxtail, cut into pieces
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons annatto seeds (achuete)
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1 bundle bok choy, leaves separated
  • 2 tablespoons shrimp paste (bagoong)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Additionally, you’ll need the following equipment:

  • A large pot or Dutch oven
  • A frying pan
  • A wooden spoon or spatula
  • A knife and cutting board
  • A strainer or cheesecloth (for removing annatto seeds)

Once you have everything prepared, you’re ready to start cooking your delicious karekare oxtail!

Step-by-step guide

Follow these steps to cook delicious karekare oxtail:

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 pounds of oxtail
  • 3 tablespoons of cooking oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
  • 2 cups of water
  • 1 cup of beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon of annatto powder
  • 1 bundle of bok choy, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
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Step 2: Cook the oxtail

In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the oxtail and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the oxtail from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the aromatics

In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the annatto powder and stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add the oxtail back to the pot

Return the oxtail to the pot with the onions and garlic. Add water and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the oxtail is tender.

Step 5: Add the peanut butter

Stir in the peanut butter until it is fully incorporated into the sauce. Simmer for another 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Adjust the seasoning

Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper according to your preference.

Step 7: Add the bok choy

Add the sliced bok choy to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the bok choy is tender.

Now, your karekare oxtail is ready to serve. Enjoy!

FAQ

What is karekare oxtail?

Karekare oxtail is a traditional Filipino dish made from tender oxtail cooked in a rich peanut sauce.

How long does it take to cook karekare oxtail?

The cooking time for karekare oxtail can vary, but on average it takes about 2 to 3 hours to cook until the oxtail is tender.

What ingredients do I need to cook karekare oxtail?

To cook karekare oxtail, you will need ingredients such as oxtail, peanut butter, annatto powder, garlic, onions, vegetables like eggplants and string beans, and fish sauce for seasoning.

Can I use a slow cooker to cook karekare oxtail?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker to cook karekare oxtail. Simply place all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the oxtail is tender.

What is the best way to serve karekare oxtail?

Karekare oxtail is traditionally served with bagoong, a shrimp paste, and eaten with steamed rice. Some people also like to serve it with a side of salted shrimp paste and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for added flavour and texture.

What is karekare oxtail?

Karekare oxtail is a Filipino dish made from oxtail stewed in peanut sauce. It is a traditional dish that is commonly served with steamed rice.

What are the ingredients needed to cook karekare oxtail?

The ingredients needed to cook karekare oxtail include oxtail, peanut butter, annatto seeds, garlic, onion, fish sauce, vegetables like eggplant and bok choy, and beef broth.