Name: Juicy Filipino Beef Stew: A Cozy Family Favorite
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 100 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Beef Chuck Roast (Substitutions: Beef stew meat can be used; avoid lean cuts like sirloin.); 1 cup Tomato Sauce (No significant substitutions recommended.); 2 leaves Bay Leaves (Be sure to remove them before serving.); 1 medium Yellow Onion (No substitutions necessary.); 4 cups Water (Can be replaced with beef broth for added richness.); 2 medium Carrots (Substitute with parsnips if desired.); 4 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic is recommended over powdered for authentic flavor.); 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil (Canola or vegetable oil works well.); 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar (Can substitute with white sugar if needed.); 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Green bell pepper can be substituted.); 2 medium Yukon Gold Potatoes (Substitutable with russet potatoes if necessary.); 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper (Adjustable to taste.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (A sprinkle adds freshness and color to your finished stew.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (A squeeze brightens the flavors beautifully as you serve.)

As the aroma of simmering beef fills my kitchen, memories of Sunday family dinners come flooding back—each bowl brimming with love and warmth. With this Juicy Filipino Beef Stew, you’ll find comfort in every tender bite, as succulent chunks of beef melt into a rich, savory sauce cooked to perfection. This dish not only brings a taste of traditional Filipino cuisine straight to your table but also serves as a delicious reminder that homemade meals are the essence of family connection. You’ll appreciate the quick prep time and how it effortlessly feeds a crowd, transforming your weeknight dinners into awe-inspiring feasts. Ready to create a cozy experience that envelops everyone around your table? Let’s explore the vibrant flavors of this hearty stew together!

Why is This Beef Stew a Must-Try?

Hearty Comfort: This Juicy Filipino Beef Stew is the epitome of cozy food, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Rich and Flavorful: With aromatic spices and tender beef, every bite is a delicious journey through Filipino culinary traditions.

Easy Preparation: You’ll love the straightforward cooking methods, making it accessible for both novice and seasoned cooks.

Versatile Options: Want a twist? Feel free to swap out vegetables or adjust the seasonings for your family’s palate.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish effortlessly feeds a crowd, leaving everyone satisfied and eager for seconds! Serve it alongside some Garlic Butter Beef for an extra treat!

Juicy Filipino Beef Stew Ingredients

For the Stew
• Beef Chuck Roast – Provides rich flavor and tenderness; best for slow cooking. Substitutions: Beef stew meat can be used; avoid lean cuts like sirloin.
• Tomato Sauce – Adds acidity and depth to the stew. No significant substitutions recommended.
• Bay Leaves – Enhance the aroma and flavor profile of the stew; be sure to remove them before serving.
• Yellow Onion – Builds a savory base flavor; no substitutions necessary.
• Water – Creates the stew’s broth; can be replaced with beef broth for added richness.
• Carrots – Contributes natural sweetness and texture; substitute with parsnips if desired.
• Garlic – Adds depth and an aromatic punch; fresh garlic is recommended over powdered for authentic flavor.
• Neutral Oil – Used for searing the meat; canola or vegetable oil works well.
• Brown Sugar – Balances acidity and enhances sweetness in the sauce; can substitute with white sugar if needed.
• Red Bell Pepper – Adds color and sweetness to the stew; green bell pepper can be substituted.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes – Offer creaminess and bulk to the dish; substitutable with russet potatoes if necessary.
• Ground Black Pepper – Provides seasoning; adjustable to taste.

Optional Garnishes
• Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle adds freshness and color to your finished stew.
• Lemon Juice – A squeeze brightens the flavors beautifully as you serve.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Juicy Filipino Beef Stew

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) if you plan to use it for cooking. This temperature ensures that your Juicy Filipino Beef Stew will simmer gently, allowing flavors to meld perfectly while keeping the beef tender. The oven will provide an even cooking environment, giving you a rich and hearty stew.

Step 2: Sear the Beef
In a large Dutch oven, heat a splash of neutral oil over medium-high heat. Add half of your beef chuck roast cubes, searing them until they’re beautifully browned on all sides—around 6-8 minutes. This step builds depth of flavor. Transfer the beef to a plate and repeat with the remaining cubes, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot for best results.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. This step creates a savory base for your stew and helps release the desirable aromatics, which is essential in crafting that delicious Juicy Filipino Beef Stew.

Step 4: Combine with Liquids
Stir in the water, tomato sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, bay leaves, and ground black pepper. As you mix, be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to lift those delicious browned bits—the fond. This mixture will create the rich broth for your stew, making it even more flavorful as it simmers.

Step 5: Return the Beef
Carefully return the seared beef and any juices back to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover with a tight-fitting lid. At this point, you can put the Dutch oven in your preheated oven or leave it on the stovetop. Cook for 1 hour and 20 minutes, allowing the beef to become wonderfully tender.

Step 6: Add Vegetables
After the beef has simmered, add the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Scatter the red bell pepper on top, which will add a sweet crunch. Cover again and continue to cook for an additional hour, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft and comforting, completing the satisfying Juicy Filipino Beef Stew.

Step 7: Finishing Touches
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the bay leaves from the stew—these should have infused flavor without being eaten. Your Juicy Filipino Beef Stew is now ready to be served hot over steamed rice. For extra flavor, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten your comforting dish.

What to Serve with Juicy Filipino Beef Stew?

As the warmth of your Juicy Filipino Beef Stew fills the air, let’s create a full spread that complements every rich, savory bite.

Steamed White Rice: The classic pairing; fluffy rice soaks up the flavorful stew and balances its hearty richness.
Garlic Fried Rice: A twist on the usual, this fragrant dish adds an aromatic kick that enhances the overall meal experience.
Sautéed Bok Choy: Crisp greens provide a refreshing contrast to the stew’s texture, adding both color and nutrition to your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini roasted until caramelized bring a sweetness that pairs beautifully with the stew’s savory notes.
Mango Salad: Sweet and tangy, this salad brightens the meal and adds a refreshing element. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts adds delightful crunch!
Filipino Lumpia: For a delicious appetizer, these crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or meat add a satisfying crunch before the main event.
Banana Liqueur Dessert: A light finish, this sweet and fruity liqueur offers a delightful contrast to the hearty stew, making for a perfect endnote.
Cold Salty Duck Eggs: This unique side can be a surprising and savory snack that complements the flavors of the stew while delivering a taste of tradition.

Imagine friends and family gathered around, savoring each bite, as plates overflow with vibrant flavors that tell a story of warmth and togetherness.

Make Ahead Options

These Juicy Filipino Beef Stew preparations are a great way to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables—like carrots and potatoes—up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can sear the beef and prepare the basic broth components (water, tomato sauce, soy sauce, and spices) up to 3 days before cooking, allowing the flavors to develop. When you’re ready to finish the stew, simply combine the seared beef and broth with the prepped vegetables, and simmer for about an hour until everything is tender and aromatic. This way, you’ll have a deliciously comforting meal with minimal last-minute effort!

Expert Tips for Juicy Filipino Beef Stew

• Perfectly Browned Beef: Ensure beef is well-browned to develop deep flavors; avoid overcrowding the pot, or it won’t sear properly.

• Watch the Veggies: Add potatoes and carrots after 90 minutes of simmering to prevent mushiness; they should be tender yet retain their shape.

• Flavor Development: For richer taste, consider refrigerating the stew overnight; the flavors intensify as it rests, making the Juicy Filipino Beef Stew even better.

• Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning—add more soy sauce or sugar based on your preference; balance is key for a satisfying stew.

• Skip the Rush: Allow the stew to simmer undisturbed; patience transforms it from good to unforgettable, enhancing the natural flavors.

Juicy Filipino Beef Stew Customizations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe, allowing your unique taste preferences to shine through as you customize it to your heart’s desire!

Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious stew without worry. This simple swap maintains flavor while accommodating dietary needs.
Root Vegetable Twist: Swap out regular carrots for sweet potatoes or parsnips to add a delightful hint of sweetness and a new texture to your stew. Mixing up the root veggies creates a lovely variation in taste.
Heat it Up: For spice lovers, add a few sliced Thai chilies or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while the stew simmers. This will bring a thrilling heat that dances on your palate, perfect for those seeking an extra kick!
Savory Aromatic Boost: Toss in a couple of sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary during the simmering process. It will infuse the stew with aromatic herbs, elevating the comforting flavors even more.
Creamy Addition: For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking. It brings a smooth texture and a lovely touch of tropical goodness, reminiscent of both Filipino and Asian cuisines.
Satisfying Protein Alternative: Use beef brisket or even pork shoulder as a substitute for beef chuck roast to explore a different texture while keeping the heartwarming essence. Each meat has its own flavor profile that can enhance the dish beautifully.
Boozy Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or Filipino rice wine to the pot while cooking—this adds depth and complexity to the flavor. The alcohol cooks off, leaving a rich flavor behind, perfect for cozy family dinners.

To enhance your dining experience, you might enjoy pairing this stew with some sautéed greens, like bok choy, or a side of Sticky Beef Noodles for a tasty twist!

How to Store and Freeze Juicy Filipino Beef Stew

Fridge: Keep your Juicy Filipino Beef Stew in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making each bite even more delightful!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, warm the stew gently on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. You can add a splash of beef broth or water to restore consistency if needed.

Juicy Filipino Beef Stew Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for this stew?
For the Juicy Filipino Beef Stew, beef chuck roast is ideal due to its rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked. You can also use beef stew meat or brisket for different textures, but avoid lean cuts like sirloin, which may become tough.

How should I store leftovers of the Juicy Filipino Beef Stew?
Store your stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. As it sits, the flavors will deepen, so it’s a perfect option for good leftovers! Make sure it’s completely cooled before refrigerating to preserve its quality.

Can I freeze Juicy Filipino Beef Stew?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion your stew into airtight containers or freezer bags, making sure to leave some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop.

What should I do if my beef stew is too watery?
If your Juicy Filipino Beef Stew comes out too watery, you can thicken it by simmering uncovered on low heat for a while to reduce the liquid. For an instant fix, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the stew, letting it cook until thickened, usually 5-10 minutes.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re cooking for those with dietary restrictions, be mindful of your soy sauce choice. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tamari instead. Additionally, if you’re preparing food for pets, avoid feeding them this stew, as some ingredients, like onions and garlic, can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always check your ingredients carefully!