If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and proudly Filipino, Kare-Kare should definitely be on your list. This iconic stew is best known for its thick peanut sauce and melt-in-your-mouth oxtail. And yes—bagoong alamang (shrimp paste) is a must-have on the side for that perfect salty kick!
What is Kare-Kare?
Kare-Kare is a traditional Filipino dish usually reserved for special occasions. It’s rich, flavorful, and has a texture that just screams “home.” The stew typically uses oxtail, but tripe, pork leg (pata), or even seafood are great alternatives. Creamy peanut sauce, toasted rice, and tender vegetables like eggplant, string beans, bok choy, and banana blossom complete the dish.
Ingredients
Method
- Boil the Meat: In a big pot, bring your water to a boil. Add the oxtail and chopped onion. Simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours (or just 35 minutes in a pressure cooker) until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender.
- Make the Sauce: Add ground peanuts, peanut butter, and the annatto water (strained from seeds). Simmer for 5–7 minutes to bring out that nutty goodness.
- Thicken It Up: Stir in toasted ground rice (or your substitute). Simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Prepare the Veggies: In a separate pan, sauté garlic, then cook banana blossoms, eggplant, and string beans for about 5 minutes.
- Combine & Finish: Add the cooked veggies to your stew. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve Hot: Best enjoyed over warm white rice with a side of shrimp paste. Tip: mix bagoong with each bite for a flavor bomb!
🍛 Pro Tips for Kare-Kare Success
- Save time with a pressure cooker: Oxtail becomes tender in just 30–40 minutes.
- No ground rice? Cornstarch or potato starch works just as well.
- Get that color pop: Annatto gives that signature orange-brown hue, but you can also use annatto powder or paste.
- No banana blossom? It’s optional—but adds texture and a hint of bitterness.
🥡 How to Store and Reheat Kare-Kare
Leftover Kare-Kare? No problem! Store it properly to keep the flavors intact. Once it cools down to room temperature, transfer the stew into an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator—it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 1 month, but be sure to separate the vegetables if possible, as they can get soggy. When reheating, do it gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving large portions, as the meat may dry out—always reheat in smaller batches for best results.
🥘 Kare-Kare Remix: Unique Twists to Try at Home
Filipino kitchens love putting their own spin on Kare-Kare! Whether you’re out of traditional ingredients or just feeling adventurous, here are fun and delicious variations to try:
🥜 Peanut Butter Only
Short on ground peanuts? Go for smooth or chunky peanut butter to save time while keeping that nutty goodness.
🐄 Classic Beef
No oxtail? No problem. Use beef chuck, brisket, or shank for that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
🌊 Seafood
Level up your dish with shrimp, squid, mussels, or crab. It’s a coastal twist that brings the ocean to your plate!
🥥 Kare-Kare sa Gata
Add coconut milk to the mix for a creamier, Bicol-style version that’s both savory and slightly sweet.
🧀 Holiday Kare-Kare
Feeling festive? Add shredded cheese just before serving. It’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for Noche Buena.
🌱 Vegan Kare-Kare
Skip the meat and load up on eggplant, banana heart, string beans, and tofu. Use vegetable broth and peanut butter for the sauce!
🔥 Spicy
Want some heat? Add chopped siling labuyo (bird’s eye chili) or mix in a bit of spicy bagoong for a kick.
🧒 Kid-Friendly Kare-Kare Tips
- 🍗 Use milder meats like boneless chicken, beef, or meatballs for easier chewing.
- 🥕 Soften the vegetables well, especially eggplant and string beans.
- 🚫 Serve without bagoong or offer it on the side for optional dipping.
- 🥜 Make the sauce smoother using creamy peanut butter and a touch of sugar.
- 🍽️ Present it playfully—serve with rice shaped into stars, animals, or fun molds.
- 🌈 Add colorful vegetables like carrots or squash to make it visually appealing.
- 🍴 Let kids help during prep to make them more excited to try the dish!
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📺 Watch This Kare-Kare Recipe Video!
I found this amazing Kare-Kare cooking video—super helpful and delicious! All credit goes to the original creator. Check it out here:
Note: This is not my video. Just sharing because it’s worth watching!
💬 Comment Down Below:
Which version of Kare-Kare do you want to try first? Or do you have your own family twist? Share it in the comments!👇
