Authentic Beef Pares: A Hearty Filipino Stew Recipe

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 2 hours | Servings: 4-6

There are certain dishes that just scream comfort and home, and for many Filipinos, Beef Pares is at the very top of that list. This slow-cooked beef stew, traditionally simmered until fork-tender in a rich, savory-sweet broth, is a beloved staple. Its name, “pares,” meaning “pair” in Spanish, often refers to how it’s perfectly paired with garlic fried rice and a clear, flavorful soup. However, this dish is so robust and satisfying, it stands beautifully on its own.

What makes Beef Pares so special? It’s the simplicity of its ingredients yielding an incredible depth of flavor. The slow cooking process allows the beef to break down, becoming incredibly tender, while the marinade infuses every strand with a delightful balance of salty, sweet, and umami notes. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers is a promise of the deliciousness to come.

Whether you’re craving a taste of home, looking for a comforting meal on a chilly evening, or simply want to explore the rich tapestry of Filipino cuisine, this Beef Pares recipe is your perfect guide. We’re going to walk through each step, ensuring you achieve that signature tender beef and deeply satisfying broth.

Ingredients for Authentic Beef Pares

Gathering your ingredients is the first delicious step. For an authentic Beef Pares, you’ll want to use good quality beef; chuck or brisket are excellent choices due to their fat content, which helps keep the meat moist during the long braising time.

Beef and Marinade

• 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon whole peppercorns
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, thinly sliced
• 2 pieces star anise (optional, but recommended for authentic flavor)

For Simmering and Finishing

• 2 cups beef broth or water
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1-2 tablespoons additional soy sauce, to taste
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry, for thickening, optional)
• Chopped scallions or fried garlic for garnish

How to Make Delicious Beef Pares

Patience is key when making Beef Pares. The magic happens with slow, gentle cooking, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become incredibly tender.

1. Marinate the Beef:

   In a large bowl, combine the beef cubes, 1/2 cup soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, peppercorns, minced garlic, sliced ginger, and star anise (if using). Mix well to ensure all the beef pieces are coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably for 4 hours or even overnight for deeper flavor penetration.

2. Sear the Beef:

   In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, reserving the marinade. Sear the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides. This step adds a crucial depth of flavor to the stew. Don’t overcrowd the pot, as this will steam the meat instead of searing it.

3. Deglaze and Simmer:

   Once all the beef is seared, return it to the pot. Pour in the reserved marinade and the beef broth (or water). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer gently.

4. Slow Cook to Tenderness:

   Allow the beef to simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally, and if the liquid level gets too low, add a little more beef broth or water. The goal is for the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.

5. Adjust Seasoning and Thicken (Optional):

   Once the beef is tender, taste the broth. Add more soy sauce if it needs saltiness, or a pinch of sugar if you prefer it a touch sweeter. If you desire a thicker sauce, whisk together the cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Gradually stir this into the simmering stew until it reaches your desired consistency. Cook for another minute or two to ensure the cornstarch is fully incorporated.

6. Serve:

   Ladle the hot Beef Pares into serving bowls. Garnish with chopped scallions or crispy fried garlic for added flavor and texture.

Tips for the Best Beef Pares

Achieving that perfect Beef Pares is all about technique and a little bit of love. Here are some tips to elevate your stew from good to outstanding.

Beef Selection is Key

Don’t shy away from cuts with good marbling. Fat equals flavor and tenderness in slow-cooked dishes. Chuck roast, brisket, or even short ribs will yield wonderfully tender results.

Marination Time Matters

While an hour is good, marinating overnight allows the soy sauce, vinegar, and aromatics to penetrate the beef more deeply. This results in a more flavorful and tender final dish. Ensure the beef is fully submerged or turned occasionally during marination.

The Browning is Crucial

Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the beef creates the Maillard reaction, which develops savory, complex flavors that are essential to the dish’s profile. It’s the foundation upon which the rest of the flavors are built.

Low and Slow is the Way to Go

This isn’t a dish to rush. Simmering on the lowest heat possible, with the lid on, ensures the beef breaks down evenly without drying out. Check on it periodically, but resist the urge to stir too vigorously, which can break up the tender meat.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Pares is incredibly versatile, but its classic accompaniments are truly something special. The ideal pairing will enhance the richness of the stew while providing a satisfying meal.

Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag)

This is the quintessential pairing. The fragrant garlic rice soaks up the delicious pares broth perfectly. To make it, sauté cooked rice with plenty of minced garlic in oil until fragrant and slightly crisp.

Paired with Soup

Traditionally, Beef Pares is served with a clear, light broth (often separate from the pares liquid) to balance the richness of the stew. Some even add a small bowl of it directly to their pares for extra liquid.

Fresh Sides

A simple side of sliced tomatoes or a quick cucumber salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew. Some people also enjoy it with a side of boiled eggs.

Enjoy Your Homemade Beef Pares!

Crafting Beef Pares at home is a rewarding culinary journey. It’s a dish that embodies Filipino hospitality and comfort, bringing warmth to any table. The tender beef, the deeply savory and slightly sweet broth, all come together to create a truly memorable meal.

Don’t be intimidated by the cooking time; it’s the secret to achieving that incredible tenderness. This recipe is a fantastic starting point, and you’ll find yourself tweaking it to your personal preferences with each subsequent batch. Dive in, savor the process, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite of your authentic Beef Pares!