Step 3: Build the Broth
- Add the seared beef back into the pot along with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), and brown sugar. Stir to combine and coat the beef in the seasonings.
- Pour in the beef broth (or water) until the beef is just covered. Add the cinnamon stick, star anise, peppercorns, and bay leaf to the pot for additional depth of flavor.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the beef becomes tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Rice
- While the beef is simmering, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the rice and set it aside.
- In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until golden brown and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add the rinsed rice to the pan, stirring to coat the rice with the garlic oil. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the rice slightly.
- Pour in the water and a pinch of salt. Cover the pan and cook the rice over low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the water has been absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Step 5: Finish the Beef Pares
- Once the beef is tender and the broth has reduced slightly, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more soy sauce, sugar, or salt to balance the flavors to your liking.
- To serve, spoon a generous portion of garlic rice onto each plate. Top with the tender beef and pour some of the broth over the rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and hard-boiled egg if desired.
Equipment Needed:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Pan for garlic rice
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Ladle
Recipe Variations:
- Beef Pares with Noodles: Instead of serving with garlic rice, you can serve the beef pares over steamed egg noodles or thin rice noodles for a more filling dish.
- Spicy Beef Pares: Add chopped chili peppers or a splash of chili paste to the broth for a spicy kick. This will add a heat balance to the rich sweetness of the beef.
- Vegetable Beef Pares: You can add carrots, potatoes, or bok choy to the broth during the last 30 minutes of cooking to incorporate more vegetables into the dish.
- Slow Cooker Beef Pares: For a more hands-off approach, you can prepare this dish in a slow cooker. Simply follow the same steps for browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What cuts of beef are best for Beef Pares? Beef shank or brisket are the best cuts for Beef Pares due to their marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked. However, you can also use other cuts like chuck or stew beef.
2. Can I make Beef Pares ahead of time? Yes! Beef Pares can be made ahead of time. The flavors will develop even more after resting for a few hours or overnight. Simply reheat the beef and broth before serving.
3. How can I make the broth thicker? If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and add it to the simmering broth towards the end of cooking. Stir well until the broth thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter. For chicken, cook it for about 30-40 minutes until tender. The flavor of the broth will also differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
5. Can I use instant rice for the garlic rice? While it’s possible to use instant rice, we recommend using regular jasmine rice or long-grain rice for the best texture and flavor. Instant rice may become mushy and lack the aroma that makes garlic rice special.
Notes:
- Be sure to simmer the beef low and slow to achieve the best tenderness and flavor. If the broth reduces too much, you can always add a bit more water or beef broth to keep the dish moist.
- Garnishing with a hard-boiled egg adds richness to the dish and is a traditional way of serving Beef Pares.
- This dish is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion:
Beef Pares is the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and comforting flavors, ideal for any weeknight dinner or family gathering. The tender beef paired with the rich broth and flavorful garlic rice is sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. Whether you choose to make it spicy, add vegetables, or even cook it in a slow cooker, Beef Pares is a flexible dish that will always deliver delicious results. Try this Filipino classic today, and make it a staple in your recipe collection for quick and satisfying dinners!
