Beef Pares Recipe: A Classic Filipino Favorite

Beef pares is one of the most beloved dishes in Filipino cuisine. Known for its tender, savory-sweet braised beef paired with fried garlic rice and a bowl of clear broth, this dish has become a favorite across the Philippines. The term “pares” literally means “pair,” referring to the perfect pairing of braised beef and rice. In this article, we will provide an in-depth look into the beef pares recipe, covering everything from its origins to the ingredients and cooking techniques. We’ll also discuss several variations and answer frequently asked questions about this flavorful Filipino dish. Let’s dive into the rich world of beef pares!

Introduction to Beef Pares Recipe

Beef pares is a delicious and filling Filipino comfort food. It is often found in humble eateries called carinderias or at street food stalls. Traditionally, beef pares features a combination of braised beef brisket in a sweet and savory sauce, served with fried garlic rice and a simple beef broth. Despite its seemingly humble presentation, this dish offers a complexity of flavors that makes it a true favorite among locals and travelers alike.

The Origin of Beef Pares

The beef pares recipe has its roots in the busy streets of Manila. Initially served as a budget-friendly street food, beef pares quickly gained popularity due to its incredible flavor, affordability, and ease of preparation. Over time, the dish evolved, but it retained its essence as a comforting meal for people from all walks of life. While many enjoy it at restaurants today, beef pares remains one of the staples of Filipino street food culture, a dish that exemplifies the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors.

Key Ingredients in Beef Pares Recipe

To create an authentic beef pares, it’s important to have the right ingredients. Each component contributes to the depth of flavor and overall enjoyment of the dish. Below are the essential ingredients for a traditional beef pares recipe:

1 kg beef brisket or shank (Brisket and shank are preferred for their toughness, which becomes tender with slow cooking.)
1/4 cup soy sauce (The base of the sauce, adding a rich umami flavor.)
1/4 cup oyster sauce (Enhances the savory quality of the dish.)
3 tablespoons brown sugar (Balances the salty and savory elements with a touch of sweetness.)
2 cloves garlic, minced (Essential for the aromatic flavor base.)
1 onion, chopped (Adds sweetness and complexity.)
2-inch piece of ginger, sliced (Provides a warming undertone.)
2 pieces star anise (Adds a subtle licorice-like note that is key to the dish’s depth.)
1/2 teaspoon peppercorns (For mild heat and fragrance.)
3 cups beef broth or water (Forms the sauce and ensures the meat is tender as it braises.)
2 tablespoons cooking oil (For sautéing the aromatics.)
Spring onions for garnish (Adds a fresh and vibrant finish.)

Why Brisket or Shank is Ideal for Beef Pares

Beef brisket and shank are tough cuts of meat, but this is exactly why they are ideal for dishes like beef pares. When slow-cooked or braised, the connective tissue in these cuts breaks down, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. The long cooking time also allows these cuts to absorb the full flavor of the sauce. This ensures that every bite of the beef is rich, succulent, and deeply infused with savory goodness.

How to Cook Beef Pares: Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking beef pares is a straightforward process, but it does require some patience to get the beef as tender and flavorful as possible. Below is a step-by-step guide to making the perfect beef pares recipe at home.

1. Preparing the Beef

Cut the beef brisket into bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking.
In a large pot, heat the cooking oil, then sauté the garlic, onion, and ginger until they become fragrant and soft.
Add the beef cubes to the pot and sear them on all sides until they are lightly browned. This helps lock in the juices and adds depth to the flavor of the beef.

2. Braising the Beef

Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and brown sugar, making sure to stir everything together to coat the beef evenly.
Add the star anise and peppercorns, followed by the beef broth or water.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef becomes tender. Keep the pot partially covered to retain the moisture.

3. Adjusting the Sauce

Once the beef is tender, remove the lid and continue simmering to reduce the sauce. This will help the sauce thicken and concentrate the flavors.
Taste the sauce, then adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more soy sauce for saltiness or more sugar for sweetness, depending on your preference.

4. Serving Beef Pares

Garnish the braised beef with chopped spring onions before serving. The freshness of the onions complements the rich flavor of the beef.
Serve the beef pares with fried garlic rice and a side of light beef broth for a well-balanced meal.

Delicious Variations of Beef Pares Recipe

While the classic beef pares recipe is a great dish on its own, many variations have emerged over the years to suit different tastes. Here are some of the most popular variations you can try:

1. Kanto-Style Beef Pares with Bone Marrow

This indulgent variation adds bone marrow to the beef pares, making it even richer and more flavorful. The bone marrow adds a creamy texture to the dish and enhances the overall flavor of the sauce. This variation is popular in many street-side eateries, particularly in the “kanto” (corner) stalls of Metro Manila.

2. Instant Pot Beef Pares

If you’re short on time, the Instant Pot or pressure cooker can be your best friend. The same beef pares recipe can be cooked in an Instant Pot in about 45 minutes. Simply follow the same steps but reduce the cooking time significantly, and you’ll have tender, flavorful beef in no time.

3. Garlic-Fried Beef Pares

For garlic lovers, this variation includes fried garlic chips in the sauce, creating a more aromatic and garlicky flavor. The crispy garlic adds an extra layer of texture to the already tender beef, making each bite a flavorful experience.

4. Spicy Beef Pares

For those who love a bit of heat, you can make spicy beef pares by adding chopped chili peppers or a spoonful of chili garlic oil into the sauce. The spiciness adds a new dimension to the sweet and savory flavors of the dish, making it ideal for those who prefer a little kick in their meals.

You can enjoy another beef Recipe with Laurena Here

The Nutritional Value of Beef Pares

Beef pares is not only tasty but also offers various nutritional benefits. Here’s a quick overview of its nutritional content:

Protein: The beef used in this recipe is a rich source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles and tissues.
Iron: Beef is also high in iron, a mineral that supports healthy blood circulation and helps prevent anemia.
Collagen: Brisket and shank cuts are rich in collagen, which is beneficial for skin health and joint support.

FAQs: Beef Pares Recipe

What are beef pares made of?

Beef pares is made from braised beef brisket or shank, cooked in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce. The dish is served with fried garlic rice and a light beef broth, creating a delicious and hearty meal.

Are beef stew and pares the same?

While beef pares and beef stew are both braised dishes, they differ in their flavor profiles. Beef stew tends to have a more robust, hearty flavor with vegetables and thicker gravy, whereas beef pares has a distinctive sweet and savory sauce, with star anise and soy sauce as key flavor components.

What are the ingredients in Diwata pares?

Diwata pares is a variation of the traditional beef pares, and it typically includes beef brisket, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and star anise. Some versions also include bone marrow, which adds richness to the dish.

Why is it called pares?

The term “pares” means “pair” in Filipino, which refers to the pairing of the braised beef with garlic fried rice. This pairing is essential to the dish, as the combination of the sweet, savory beef and fragrant rice creates a balanced and satisfying meal.

Key Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Pares Recipe

To make the perfect beef pares, follow these tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh beef and aromatic spices such as garlic, ginger, and star anise to get the best flavor.
Low and Slow Cooking: Patience is key. Slow-cooking or braising the beef over low heat ensures the meat becomes tender and the flavors are fully infused.
Adjust to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so be sure to taste the sauce as it cooks. Add more soy sauce for saltiness or sugar for sweetness until you find the perfect balance.
Fried Garlic Topping: Adding fried garlic as a garnish elevates the flavor and adds a bit of crunch to the dish.
Serve with Broth: A light beef broth served on the side not only complements the richness of the braised beef but also balances the meal.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Beef Pares Today

The beef pares recipe is a timeless dish that has been enjoyed by generations of Filipinos. Its delightful combination of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, paired with garlic fried rice and broth, makes it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking it for a family meal or trying it for the first time, beef pares is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and comforting qualities.

By following the step-by-step guide and variations discussed in this article, you’ll be able to create your very own beef pares at home. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a taste of the Philippines right in your kitchen!

Happy cooking!