Beef Mechado: Filipino Beef Stew

Beef Mechado: A Hearty Filipino Beef Stew

Beef Mechado is a classic Filipino dish that embodies comfort and rich flavors. This tomato-based beef stew is slow-cooked to tender perfection, making it a staple in many Filipino households. With its savory-sweet taste and hearty ingredients, it's best served with steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

What is Beef Mechado?

Beef Mechado is the Filipino take on beef stew, with a distinctive tangy and umami-rich taste. The dish gets its deep flavors from soy sauce, tomato sauce, and a hint of citrus, which enhances the beef’s natural richness. Traditionally, Mechado includes beef chunks, potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers, making it a well-balanced and nutritious meal.

Ingredients

1 1/2 kilos beef chunks (preferably with some marbling for tenderness)

1/2 cup soy sauce (for marinating)

Juice of half a lemon (for a subtle citrus kick)

Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

3 tbsp cooking oil (for sautéing)

3 potatoes, cut into quarters

1 carrot, cut diagonally

3 bay leaves (adds a rich, aromatic flavor)

1 medium-sized onion, diced

2-3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tomatoes, diced

1 tbsp fish sauce (optional) (for added umami)

1 cup tomato sauce

3 tbsp tomato paste (for a deeper tomato flavor)

3 cups beef broth

1 red bell pepper, sliced

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

1. In a large bowl, combine the beef chunks, soy sauce, lemon juice, and black pepper.

2. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

1. Heat cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Remove the beef from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides.

3. Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.

2. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they become soft and release their juices.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

1. Return the seared beef to the pot.

2. Add the reserved marinade, bay leaves, and fish sauce (if using).

3. Pour in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

1. Add the potatoes, carrots, and bell pepper to the stew.

2. Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the bay leaves.

2. Serve hot with steamed rice for a comforting meal.

Cooking Tips

If you want an extra tender texture, use beef brisket or chuck roast.

You can replace lemon juice with calamansi juice for a more authentic Filipino flavor.

Add a little sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter Mechado.

Final Thoughts

Beef Mechado is a true Filipino comfort dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weekday meal, this hearty stew will always satisfy your taste buds. Try this recipe and enjoy a taste of Filipino home cooking!