Beef Pares Recipe is a beloved Filipino comfort food, combining tender, slow-braised beef in a savory-sweet sauce with garlic fried rice and clear soup. The dish began in the 1970s in roadside eateries called carinderias, where it was a popular and hearty meal for workers. Over the years, it has become a classic, enjoyed in both humble homes and upscale restaurants.
Today, the Beef Pares Recipe stands as a symbol of Filipino culinary tradition, blending savory and sweet flavors with ingredients like soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and star anise. Whether you’re craving a bold dish or exploring Filipino cuisine, this meal offers warmth and comfort with every bite.
Table of Contents
What is Beef Pares Recipe?
Beef Pares Recipe is a beloved Filipino dish that combines tender beef, garlic fried rice, and a light soup, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal. The savory-sweet beef sauce, enriched with ingredients like soy sauce and star anise, pairs perfectly with the refreshing soup, balancing the richness of the dish.
Originally from the roadside eateries (carinderias) of the Philippines in the 1970s, Beef Pares was introduced as an affordable, filling meal for workers. Over time, it became popular in homes and restaurants, with its versatility allowing for creative variations while staying true to its roots.
Today, Beef Pares continues to capture hearts worldwide, celebrated not just for its flavor but also its cultural significance as a comforting Filipino classic.
Why is Beef Pares Recipe Special?
Beef Pares is loved for its simplicity, rich flavors, and versatility. The slow-braised beef, infused with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and star anise, creates a savory-sweet sauce with a subtle licorice aroma that enhances the dish’s umami flavor.
What makes it stand out is how it’s served: the beef pairs perfectly with garlic fried rice, which absorbs the sauce, and is complemented by a clear beef soup that balances the richness. Together, these elements create a comforting meal suitable for any time of day.
Beef Pares is not just a dish; it’s a testament to Filipino culinary creativity, blending simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
For more inspiration on hearty Filipino dishes, check out this Asian Breakfast Guide, where you can explore other comforting meals from the region and discover what makes Filipino food so special.
Ingredients for Beef Pares Recipe
To make an authentic Beef Pares Recipe, use these essential ingredients:
For the Beef:
- Beef brisket or shank: These cuts are perfect for braising, becoming tender and flavorful.
- Water: Used to boil the beef and create a flavorful broth.
- Garlic and ginger: Provide the aromatic base for the broth.
For the Sauce:
- Soy sauce: Creates the savory foundation of the sauce.
- Brown sugar: Adds the signature sweet balance.
- Star anise: Delivers a subtle licorice aroma.
- Garlic, onion, and ginger: Essential for the sauce’s base flavor.
- Beef broth: The reserved liquid from boiling the beef enhances the sauce.
- Cornstarch slurry: Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
For the Sides:
- Day-old rice: Ideal for making garlic fried rice, absorbing the flavors beautifully.
- Garlic: Fried to create the signature garlic fried rice.
- Clear beef soup: A light broth that complements the rich beef and rice.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Beef Pares Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Beef Pares at home:
1. Preparing the Beef:
- Cut beef into bite-sized pieces.
- Boil the beef with water, crushed garlic, and ginger until tender.
- Skim off impurities to keep the broth clear. Once tender, remove the beef and reserve the broth.
2. Making the Sauce:
- Sauté minced garlic, chopped onions, and ginger in oil until fragrant.
- Add soy sauce, brown sugar, and star anise. Stir well.
- Pour in the reserved beef broth and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Combining the Beef and Sauce:
- Add the cooked beef into the sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, then let it simmer until glossy.
4. Preparing the Sides:
- Garlic Fried Rice: Sauté garlic until golden, then toss in day-old rice. Season with salt.
- Clear Beef Soup: Reheat the reserved beef broth and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serving:
- Serve the beef with a generous portion of garlic fried rice and a bowl of clear soup.
Tips for Perfect Beef Pares Recipe
Achieving the perfect Beef Pares requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help:
Serve Fresh: Beef Pares tastes best fresh, with all the flavors fully melded.ares and impress anyone who tastes your dish!
Tenderizing the Beef: Slow-cook or pressure-cook beef to break down connective tissues, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Balancing Flavors: Adjust the sweetness and saltiness to your preference. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of oyster or fish sauce.
Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and star anise make a big difference in flavor.
Simmering the Sauce: Don’t rush this step; allow the sauce to simmer to develop its deep, glossy texture.
Variations of Beef Pares Recipe
While the classic version is a favorite, there are several fun variations to try:
- Pares Mami: A noodle version that combines braised beef with egg noodles in a rich broth.
- Fusion Pares: Modern twists may include teriyaki sauce or chili oil for a unique flavor.
- Vegetarian Pares: Substitute beef with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian take on this dish.
FAQs About Beef Pares Recipe
What is Beef Pares made of?
Beef Pares is made from tender beef chunks braised in a savory-sweet soy-based sauce, typically served with garlic fried rice and clear soup.
Is Beef Pares unhealthy?
While Beef Pares is high in protein, it can also contain sugar, sodium, and fat. To make it healthier, use lean beef cuts, limit sugar, and pair it with brown rice or vegetables.
What are the two kinds of Pares?
The two common types are:
- Classic Beef Pares with fried rice and soup.
- Pares Mami, a noodle soup version.
What part of a cow is Pares?
The dish typically uses beef brisket, shank, or chuck, which become tender and flavorful when braised.
Conclusion
Beef Pares is more than just a meal—it’s a Filipino culinary masterpiece that brings together savory and sweet flavors, tender beef, and satisfying sides. Whether you enjoy it traditionally or experiment with modern twists, this dish remains a favorite for its comfort and flavor.
By following these simple steps and tips, you can recreate this iconic dish at home and bring a taste of the Philippines to your kitchen. Enjoy Beef Pares with family and friends, and discover why it’s such a cherished part of Filipino food culture.
Bring a taste of the Philippines to your kitchen today by trying this authentic Beef Pares Recipe. For more beef-inspired ideas and flavorful dishes, check out Beef Bouillon Brisket to elevate your cooking repertoire and expand your culinary skills!
Beef Pares Recipe
Ingredients
For the Beef Pares:
- 1 lb beef brisket or shank cut into chunks
- 4 cups water
- 3 cloves garlic crushed
- 1- inch piece of ginger sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 star anise
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce optional for extra umami
- 1 cup beef broth reserved from cooking the beef
- 1 tbsp cornstarch for thickening
- 1 tbsp water for cornstarch slurry
For the Sides:
- 2 cups day-old rice
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp oil for frying the garlic rice
- 4 cups beef broth for the soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Beef:
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add beef, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Let it simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
- Skim off any impurities that float on the surface and discard.
- Once the beef is tender, remove it and set it aside, reserving the broth for the sauce and soup.
Make the Sauce:
- In a pan, heat oil and sauté garlic, onions, and ginger until aromatic.
- Add soy sauce, brown sugar, and oyster sauce. Stir well.
- Pour in 1 cup of the reserved beef broth, along with star anise. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add it to the sauce and stir until the sauce thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Beef and Sauce:
- Add the cooked beef to the sauce, coating it thoroughly. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce is thick and glossy.
Prepare Garlic Fried Rice:
- In a separate pan, heat oil and sauté minced garlic until golden.
- Add day-old rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir well, allowing the garlic flavor to infuse into the rice. Season with salt and pepper.
Prepare Soup:
- In a small pot, reheat the reserved beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer until ready to serve.
Serve:
- Plate the beef with a side of garlic fried rice and a bowl of clear beef soup. Garnish with fresh green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
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