Beef Asado Recipe

Cook Time: 100 minutes

Beef Chuck Roast Recipe

This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner. Tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich sauce make for an unforgettable meal. Heres how to prepare it:

Ingredients

• 1 (4 pound) beef chuck roast, quartered
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons cooking oil, divided
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 (5 ounce) jar pitted Manzanilla olives with brine
• 2 beef bouillon cubes
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon whole peppercorns, crushed
• cup ketchup
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
• 4 small potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 tablespoon corn flour (Optional)
• 1 teaspoon water (Optional)

Directions

1. Season the beef with salt and black pepper, then set it aside.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and crushed garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, then transfer to a 6-quart pot.
3. In the same skillet, brown the beef chunks individually on all sides. Once browned, add the beef to the pot.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, quartered onion, olives with brine, bouillon cubes, bay leaves, and crushed peppercorns to the pot. Bring to a boil.
5. Stir in the ketchup, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer for 1 hour.
6. After an hour, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
7. Add the sliced red bell pepper to the pot and continue simmering for another 30 minutes.
8. While the bell pepper is simmering, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in the skillet. Add the potatoes and cook them until golden brown, about 10 minutes. Transfer the cooked potatoes to the pot.
9. Slice the beef against the grain and return it to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes.
10. If the sauce is too thin, whisk together the corn flour and water in a small bowl, then stir it into the pot to thicken the sauce.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	639
Total Fat	38g (48% DV)
Saturated Fat	14g (70% DV)
Cholesterol	138mg (46% DV)
Sodium	1194mg (52% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	35g (13% DV)
Dietary Fiber	5g (18% DV)
Total Sugars	10g
Protein	40g (80% DV)
Vitamin C	71mg (79% DV)
Calcium	72mg (6% DV)
Iron	6mg (34% DV)
Potassium	1148mg (24% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amounts are based on available nutrient data.

History and Origins

Beef Asado, a classic Filipino dish, traces its roots back to Spanish colonial influence in the Philippines. The term "asado" comes from the Spanish word for "roast," which initially referred to roasted meats. Over time, this dish evolved in Filipino kitchens into a braised or stewed version, typically made with beef, pork, or chicken. The addition of local ingredients such as Manzanilla olives, potatoes, and bell peppers gave it a unique Filipino twist, distinguishing it from other Spanish stews. Today, Beef Asado is a beloved dish in Filipino households and is often served during celebrations or family gatherings.

Regional Variations

Although Beef Asado is widely enjoyed throughout the Philippines, regional variations exist. In the Visayas and Mindanao regions, for instance, the dish may be prepared with different cuts of meat such as pork or even seafood, adapting to the local food culture and available ingredients. Some variations also include the addition of vinegar or soy sauce, adding a slight tangy depth to the flavor. Despite these differences, the core concept of slow-cooked, tender beef with a flavorful tomato-based sauce remains a staple.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Beef Asado can be easily confused with other Filipino stews like beef kaldereta or beef pochero, but there are key distinctions. Unlike kaldereta, which uses a tomato-based sauce and often includes liver spread for added richness, Beef Asado tends to be more straightforward in flavor, relying heavily on the savory notes of beef, olives, and tomatoes. On the other hand, pochero is more soup-like, with a sweeter flavor profile due to the inclusion of plantains or saba bananas, while Beef Asado sticks to a thicker, heartier sauce.

Where It's Served

Beef Asado is a common dish in Filipino households, especially for special occasions such as birthdays, Christmas, and New Year's celebrations. It's often served with steamed white rice, making it a comforting and filling meal. The dish is also found in many Filipino restaurants and eateries worldwide, where it has been embraced as part of the global Filipino culinary tradition. Whether at a festive gathering or a casual family dinner, Beef Asado is known for its ability to bring people together around the table.

Interesting Facts

1. In Filipino culture, the dish is often associated with family reunions and festive occasions. Its comforting nature makes it a favorite for large gatherings.

2. Beef Asado is sometimes served with bread or crackers to dip in the rich, flavorful sauce, offering a different take on the traditional rice pairing.

3. The use of olives in the dish, while unusual in many stews, adds a distinct briny flavor that balances the richness of the beef and the sweetness of the tomatoes.

4. Some variations of Beef Asado are prepared in a slow cooker, making it a convenient dish for busy families or those who prefer hands-off cooking.

Conclusion

Beef Asado is a hearty, flavorful dish that blends the rich history of Spanish culinary traditions with the unique tastes of Filipino ingredients. Whether prepared for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this comforting stew is sure to satisfy. With its regional variations, it's a dish that brings the diverse flavors of the Philippines to the table, making it a true culinary treasure of Filipino cuisine.

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