Caldereta
A savory Filipino beef stew with tender meat, potatoes, and colorful peppers, flavored with garlic, onions, tomatoes, hot sauce, and seasoned to perfection, ideal for hearty meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil and brown the minced garlic.
- Remove the garlic and sauté the chopped onion and sliced tomatoes.
- Add the beef pieces and season with hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until the meat is almost tender.
- Add the quartered potatoes and continue cooking.
- When the potatoes are almost cooked, thicken the sauce.
- Add the sliced peppers and sweet peas.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider marinating the beef in the hot sauce overnight. You can substitute the beef with chicken or pork if desired, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you want to add more vegetables, bell peppers and carrots work well too. For a creamier sauce, add a splash of coconut milk during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve caldereta hot with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs beautifully with Mama's Spanish Chowder for a complete meal. For added freshness, garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro. A side salad can also complement the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover caldereta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caldereta contains roughly 278 calories, with 6g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2190mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make caldereta in advance?
Yes, caldereta can be made in advance and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
What type of beef is best for caldereta?
Chuck roast or brisket are ideal cuts for caldereta as they become tender and flavorful with slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts, as they may dry out. If you prefer a quicker cooking time, you can use beef stew meat, but be mindful of the texture.
Can I make caldereta spicy?
Absolutely! You can adjust the heat level by increasing the amount of hot sauce or adding fresh chili peppers to the dish. For a milder version, reduce the hot sauce or serve it on the side for those who prefer it less spicy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).