Nilagang Baka

Nilagang Baka Recipe from the Philippines - Ingredients and Steps

Region / culture: Philippines | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Nilagang Baka is a traditional Filipino beef soup that is hearty, comforting, and perfect for cold weather. This dish is simple to make yet packed with flavor, making it a favorite among many Filipino households.

History

Nilagang Baka has been a staple in Filipino cuisine for generations. It is a dish that is often served during family gatherings, special occasions, and even on regular days. The slow cooking process allows the flavors of the beef and vegetables to meld together, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) beef, cut into 2X2 inch pieces
2 cubes beef bouillon or beef stock (plain water will suffice)
1 tsp peppercorns
1 small onion, chopped
3 medium-sized potatoes, cut into quarters
1 small head of bok choy (pechay) (optional if not available)
1 small head of cabbage, cut into quarters
salt and pepper, to taste

How to prepare

1. In a pot, boil beef, peppercorns, and onions with enough beef stock to cover the meat. Place a lid on the pot and simmer over medium heat. If you prefer more stock (sabaw), add more.
2. After 30 minutes of boiling, or when the meat is very tender, add potatoes. Boil for another 10-15 minutes. Once the vegetables are cooked, add the remaining ingredients and seasonings.
3. Boil for another 5 minutes. Serve with rice.

Variations

You can add other vegetables such as corn, green beans, or squash to the soup for added texture and flavor.
For a spicy twist, you can add chili peppers or hot sauce to the broth.
Adding a splash of fish sauce or soy sauce can enhance the umami flavor of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For a richer flavor, you can use beef shank or brisket instead of regular beef cuts.

- Adding a piece of corn on the cob can add sweetness to the broth.

- Skimming off any impurities that rise to the surface while boiling the beef will result in a clearer and cleaner broth.

Serving Suggestions

Nilagang Baka is best served hot with a side of steamed rice. You can also enjoy it with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, calamansi, and chili peppers for an extra kick of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Nilagang Baka is to simmer the beef slowly until it is tender. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find bok choy, you can substitute it with spinach or other leafy greens. You can also use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Nilagang Baka can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Nilagang Baka in a large bowl with a garnish of chopped green onions or cilantro on top. You can also add a squeeze of calamansi or lemon juice for a burst of citrus flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Nilagang Baka pairs well with steamed rice, garlic fried rice, or crusty bread. A side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad can also complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Nilagang Baka can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the soup in a pot and heat over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Nilagang Baka usually contains around 250-300 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie meal option.

Carbohydrates

Nilagang Baka is a low-carb dish, with most of the carbohydrates coming from the potatoes and vegetables. One serving typically contains around 20-25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fat content in Nilagang Baka is relatively low, as the dish is made with lean beef cuts and does not require additional fats for cooking. One serving usually contains around 5-10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Nilagang Baka is a protein-rich dish, thanks to the beef and vegetables. One serving typically contains around 25-30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. The bok choy and cabbage provide a good amount of these essential nutrients.

Alergens

Nilagang Baka may contain allergens such as soy (if using soy sauce for seasoning) and gluten (if using any wheat-based ingredients). Be sure to check the ingredients for any potential allergens before consuming.

Summary

Overall, Nilagang Baka is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It is a wholesome dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Summary

Nilagang Baka is a classic Filipino beef soup that is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for a cozy meal at home or a gathering with loved ones. Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of Nilagang Baka today!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Nilagang Baka. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always creating delicious dishes that filled our home with enticing aromas.

One day, as I watched her prepare our family's favorite soup, Nilaga, I couldn't help but ask her for the recipe. She smiled warmly and began to explain the process to me. She told me that Nilaga was a traditional Filipino dish made with beef, potatoes, and vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. It was a simple yet comforting meal that never failed to satisfy.

As my grandmother guided me through the steps of making Nilagang Baka, I was filled with a sense of excitement. I watched as she carefully selected the ingredients, from the tender cuts of beef to the fresh vegetables. She taught me how to season the broth with garlic, onions, and peppercorns, infusing it with a rich and savory flavor.

I listened intently as she shared her tips and tricks for creating the perfect Nilaga. She explained the importance of simmering the soup slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender. She showed me how to skim off any impurities that rose to the surface, ensuring that the broth remained clear and clean.

As the soup cooked, filling the kitchen with its enticing aroma, my grandmother shared stories of how she had learned to make Nilagang Baka herself. She told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations of our family, each cook adding their own unique twist to the dish.

She recalled how her own grandmother had taught her the secrets of making Nilaga, imparting wisdom that had been handed down through the years. She spoke fondly of the times they had spent together in the kitchen, bonding over their shared love of cooking.

As I stirred the pot, my grandmother's words echoed in my mind. I felt a deep connection to her and to the generations of women who had come before us, all united by a love of food and family. I realized that cooking was more than just a practical skill – it was a way to honor our heritage and preserve our traditions.

Finally, the soup was ready. My grandmother ladled out steaming bowls of Nilagang Baka, garnishing them with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. We sat down at the table, savoring the rich flavors and warm memories that filled the room.

As I took my first spoonful of the soup, I knew that I had found a recipe that would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire. I had learned to make Nilagang Baka, not just from a cookbook or a cooking show, but from the loving hands and heartfelt stories of my grandmother.

And as I continue to cook and share this dish with my own family, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past and bring us closer together. Nilagang Baka will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and legacy that we pass down through the simple act of sharing a meal.