If you are on the hunt for a comforting and delicious home-cooked meal, look no further than this Simple Beef Mechado Recipe. This classic Filipino dish features tender cubes of beef slowly simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and subtly sweet flavors. The combination of vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and red bell peppers adds vibrant color and a delightful texture that makes every bite truly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or inviting friends over, this recipe is a timeless crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with heartwarming goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Simple Beef Mechado Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a key role to build the rich flavors and hearty texture. From aromatic garlic and onions to the tangy tomato sauce and soy-vinegar blend, every element contributes to creating a deep and satisfying taste that feels both warm and inviting.
- 1 lb beef, cut into cubes: Choose a cut suitable for slow cooking like chuck for tender, melt-in-your-mouth results.
- 1 onion, sliced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce as it simmers down.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant base that wakes up the senses.
- 1 potato, peeled and diced: Soaks up the savory sauce and adds a creamy texture.
- 1 carrot, peeled and sliced: Brings natural sweetness and a bright pop of orange color.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds a mild, sweet crunch with vibrant hue.
- 1 cup tomato sauce: The star of the sauce, giving it that classic tangy richness.
- 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the beef flavor and keeps everything luscious and juicy.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: Imparts umami and savory depth with a salty kick.
- 2 tbsp vinegar: Balances the richness with a hint of acidity for brightness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that highlight and harmonize all the flavors.
How to Make Simple Beef Mechado Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating a pot and gently sautéing the minced garlic and sliced onion until they become fragrant and translucent. This step is crucial because it unlocks the deep flavors that will infuse the entire dish, creating a savory foundation to build upon.
Step 2: Brown the Beef Cubes
Add the beef cubes to the pot and sear them on all sides until they develop a rich brown crust. This caramelization not only enhances the beef’s flavor but also adds a beautiful color that makes the dish visually appealing and tasty.
Step 3: Add the Sauce Ingredients
Once the beef is browned, pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, soy sauce, and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine the flavors well. This mix sets the stage for a delicious, tangy, and satisfying sauce that’s balanced perfectly between savory and acidic notes.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Cover the pot and let the beef simmer gently for 1 to 2 hours. This slow cooking makes the beef incredibly tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You’ll want to keep an eye on the liquid level, adding a bit more broth if necessary to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and red bell pepper to the pot. Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender but still hold their shape, creating a lovely contrast in texture against the luscious beef.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Simple Beef Mechado Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot, ideally with steamed rice to soak up every bit of that savory, tangy sauce. It’s pure comfort food in every bite.
How to Serve Simple Beef Mechado Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top adds a burst of color and a mild freshness that balances the hearty flavors. For an extra touch, a few slices of red chili can bring some heat if you like a bit of spice.
Side Dishes
Simple Beef Mechado pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or white rice, allowing the sauce’s rich flavors to shine. You can also serve it alongside garlic fried rice or even a crisp vegetable salad for added texture and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive meal, consider serving the beef mechado in a deep casserole dish, surrounded by freshly steamed vegetables for a rustic look. You can also scoop it into a bread bowl for an inventive comfort food experience that’s both fun and filling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Simple Beef Mechado keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even more delicious.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, so prepare a large batch if you want to save some for busy days later on. Portion the beef mechado into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. Microwaving in short intervals also works well for convenience.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chuck is ideal for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use brisket or round. Just expect slightly different textures and adjust cooking time as needed to ensure tenderness.
Is vinegar necessary in the Simple Beef Mechado Recipe?
Yes, vinegar provides a subtle tang that brightens and balances the rich tomato and beef flavors. You can use cane vinegar or white vinegar, but avoid malt vinegar as it may alter the traditional taste.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Follow the sauté and browning steps first for flavor, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce if I don’t have any?
If tomato sauce is unavailable, you can use crushed tomatoes or a combination of tomato paste and water. Just adjust the amount to maintain the right sauce consistency and flavor balance.
How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?
Low and slow cooking is key. Don’t rush the simmering step and make sure the meat stays covered in liquid so it braises gently. Using the right cut of beef also makes a big difference in tenderness.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Beef Mechado Recipe is a warm hug in a bowl that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Its flavorful sauce, tender beef, and colorful veggies come together effortlessly to create a dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with loved ones — it’s comfort food made simple and so satisfying.
Print
Simple Beef Mechado Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
Description
Simple Beef Mechado is a classic Filipino stew known for its tender beef cubes simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. Perfectly balanced with soy sauce and vinegar, this comforting dish brings hearty warmth and vibrant color to your table.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb beef, cut into cubes
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 potato, peeled and diced
- 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vinegar
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a pot, sauté the minced garlic and sliced onion over medium heat until fragrant and translucent to build a flavorful base for the stew.
- Brown the Beef: Add the beef cubes to the pot and brown them on all sides. This step seals in the juices and enhances flavor through caramelization.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, soy sauce, and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Beef: Cover the pot and let the beef simmer gently for 1 to 2 hours, or until the meat becomes tender and easy to shred with a fork.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and red bell pepper into the pot. Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender but not mushy, about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the hot mechado into bowls and enjoy immediately with steamed rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, marinate the beef in soy sauce and vinegar for at least 30 minutes prior to cooking.
- You can substitute beef broth with water or vegetable broth if preferred.
- Adjust the acidity by varying the amount of vinegar according to taste.
- Add bay leaves or crushed peppercorns during simmering for enhanced aroma.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste even better the next day.
