Puchero Stew from the Philippines

Puchero Stew from the Philippines Recipe | Authentic Filipino Dish

Region / culture: Philippines | Servings: 6

Introduction

Puchero Stew is a traditional Filipino dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. This stew is made with tender stewing beef, vegetables, and a savory tomato sauce broth. It is a popular dish in the Philippines and is often served during special occasions and family gatherings.

History

Puchero Stew has Spanish origins and was introduced to the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period. The dish has evolved over time and has become a beloved Filipino comfort food. It is a dish that brings families together and is often passed down through generations.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) stewing beef, cut into 2-inch cubes
1 oz (28 g) hot pepperoni, cut into thin slices
4 green onions, cut into 4-inch lengths
1 stalk celery, cut into 4-inch lengths
2 tsp salt
1 small cabbage, cut into small wedges
2 medium potatoes, pared and cubed
0.25 lb (113 g) fresh green beans
2 tbsp cooking oil
2 cloves minced garlic
1 medium white onion, minced
0.5 cup tomato sauce
1 cup canned garbanzo beans

How to prepare

Boil the beef in a large pot with just enough water to cover the meat.
Let it simmer until the beef is tender, about 2 hours.
Remove the beef from the pot.
Boil the broth and add the potatoes. Boil for 2–3 minutes.
Add the green beans and cabbage. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
In a separate smaller pot, sauté the garlic and onion in hot oil.
Add the beef and tomato sauce.
Simmer for 5 minutes.
Add 3 cups of the broth and bring it to a boil.
Add the chickpeas.
Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Place the beef in a deep serving dish.
Arrange the vegetables around the meat.
Garnish with the chorizo slices.
Pour the tomato sauce broth over the entire dish and serve it with hot rice.
Eggplant salad complements this nicely.
Serve it as a side dish.

Variations

You can add other vegetables such as carrots, squash, or corn to the stew for added flavor and nutrition.
For a spicier version, you can add more hot pepperoni or chili peppers to the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For a richer flavor, you can use beef broth instead of water to boil the beef.

- Make sure to simmer the beef until it is tender to ensure a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

- Adding the vegetables in stages ensures that they are cooked perfectly and retain their vibrant colors.

- Garnishing the dish with chorizo slices adds a delicious smoky flavor to the stew.

Serving Suggestions

Puchero Stew is best served hot with steamed rice on the side.

- It can also be enjoyed with a side of eggplant salad for a refreshing contrast.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the beef until tender ensures a flavorful and tender meat in the stew.

- Sautéing the garlic and onion before adding the beef and tomato sauce enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken or pork instead of beef for a different variation of the stew.

- If you cannot find hot pepperoni, you can use regular pepperoni or spicy sausage as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the stew ahead of time and reheat it before serving. The flavors will develop even more if left to sit overnight.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Puchero Stew in a deep serving dish with the beef in the center and the vegetables arranged around it. - Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Puchero Stew pairs well with a side of steamed rice, garlic bread, or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the stew in a pot over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

25g per serving

Fats

15g per serving

Proteins

30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Puchero Stew is rich in vitamins A, C, and K from the vegetables used in the recipe.

- It also provides minerals such as iron, potassium, and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy (from the hot pepperoni) and gluten (from the chorizo).

Summary

Puchero Stew is a well-balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a nutritious meal that is satisfying and delicious.

Summary

Puchero Stew is a classic Filipino dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. This stew is packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a savory tomato sauce broth. It is a dish that brings families together and is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It takes me back to a time when I was young and adventurous, eager to learn new things and explore the world. It was during one of my travels to the Philippines that I stumbled upon this delicious dish called Puchero Stew.

I remember it like it was yesterday. I had just arrived in Manila, the bustling capital city of the Philippines, and I was excited to immerse myself in the vibrant culture and cuisine of this beautiful country. As I wandered through the colorful streets and bustling markets, my senses were overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, and smells of this exotic place.

One day, as I was exploring a local market, I came across a small food stall where an elderly woman was cooking up a storm. The aroma of meat, vegetables, and spices wafted through the air, drawing me in like a magnet. I watched in awe as she deftly chopped, stirred, and simmered a bubbling pot of stew that looked simply irresistible.

Intrigued, I approached the woman and struck up a conversation with her. She told me that she was making Puchero Stew, a traditional Filipino dish that is beloved by locals and visitors alike. She explained that Puchero is a hearty stew made with a medley of meats, vegetables, and legumes, simmered in a flavorful broth seasoned with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices.

As I watched her cook, I was captivated by the way she moved with grace and precision, her hands working like magic as she transformed simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors. I could tell that she had a deep love and respect for the culinary traditions of her country, and I felt honored to be able to learn from her.

After the stew was ready, the woman ladled out generous portions into bowls and offered me a taste. I eagerly accepted, taking a spoonful of the rich, savory broth and savoring the tender chunks of meat, the sweet vegetables, and the earthy legumes. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before – a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that danced on my palate and warmed my soul.

I knew in that moment that I had to learn how to make Puchero Stew for myself. I begged the woman to teach me her recipe, and she graciously agreed. We spent the rest of the day together, as she guided me through the process of making the stew from start to finish, sharing her tips, tricks, and secrets along the way.

I learned that the key to a great Puchero Stew lies in the quality of the ingredients and the slow, gentle cooking process. The meats should be tender and juicy, the vegetables fresh and vibrant, and the broth rich and aromatic. The secret, she told me, is to simmer the stew slowly over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld and develop over time.

I took notes furiously as the woman showed me how to prepare and cook each component of the stew. She taught me how to marinate the meats in a tangy mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, and spices, how to sauté the garlic and onions until golden and fragrant, and how to add the tomatoes, broth, and seasonings to create a luscious base for the stew.

As we worked together in the tiny kitchen, a bond formed between us – a shared love of food and cooking that transcended language and culture. I felt like I had found a kindred spirit in this wise woman, who had so generously shared her knowledge and skills with me.

When the stew was finally ready, we sat down together to enjoy a steaming bowl of Puchero, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime. As I took my first bite, I felt a rush of emotions – joy, gratitude, and a deep sense of satisfaction. The stew was everything I had hoped for and more – hearty, comforting, and bursting with flavor.

From that day on, Puchero Stew became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I made it for friends and family, sharing the recipe and the story behind it with anyone who would listen. It became a beloved tradition in our household, a reminder of that fateful day in Manila when I discovered a new dish and a new friend.

As the years passed, I continued to perfect my recipe for Puchero Stew, adding my own twists and adaptations to make it my own. But no matter how many times I make it, the memory of that first taste in the bustling streets of the Philippines will always hold a special place in my heart.

And so, whenever I make Puchero Stew, I am transported back to that magical moment, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of a distant land. I am grateful for the gift of that recipe, and for the joy and connection it has brought into my life.

In the end, I realize that food is more than just sustenance – it is a bridge that connects us to each other, to our past, and to the world around us. And for that, I am forever thankful.