Authentic Filipino Nilaga Recipe: A Comforting Beef Stew

Ingredients

1 kg beef shank or stewing beef, sliced into serving sizes
1 large onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, crushed
1 whole peppercorn
2 medium-sized potatoes, quartered
1 large cabbage, quartered
3 cup string beans, cut into 2 inch segments
2 medium-sized carrots, sliced
2 whole corn cobs, cut into 3 parts
1 tablespoon of fish sauce
6-8 cups of water, or enough to cover the meat
Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

Place the beef, onion, and garlic in a large pot. Add water until the beef is fully submerged.
Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, lower the heat, add the peppercorn, and let it simmer until the beef is tender. This can take about 1 to 2 hours.
Add more water if needed during this process. Skim off any scum or fat that floats to the top.
Once the beef is tender, add the potatoes, carrots, and corn to the pot. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Add the string beans and cabbage. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Season with fish sauce and salt to taste. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to let the flavours meld together.
Turn off the heat and let the Nilaga rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Tools for making

Large pot - A pot large enough to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for boiling and simmering.
Cutting board - A sturdy surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables.
Knife - A sharp knife for slicing and chopping the beef and vegetables.
Measuring cups - To accurately measure the water and fish sauce.
Wooden spoon - For stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pot.
Skimmer - A utensil to skim off any scum or fat that may float to the top during cooking.
Tongs - To handle and turn the corn cobs while cooking.

Recipe variations

Use chicken or pork instead of beef for a different protein option.
Add other vegetables such as bok choy, broccoli, or green beans.
Include other herbs and spices like bay leaves, thyme, or parsley for added flavor.
Experiment with different seasonings such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or soybean paste.
Make it spicy by adding chili peppers or chili flakes.
For a heartier version, add noodles such as egg noodles or rice noodles.
Try using vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian or vegan option.
Add other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or turnips.
Include mushrooms like shiitake or button mushrooms for an earthy taste.
For a tangy twist, add a squeeze of lemon or calamansi juice before serving.

Recipe overview

Nilaga is a traditional Filipino soup dish known for its clear broth, tender beef, and a variety of delicious vegetables. This comforting, hearty stew is perfect for cold days or when you simply want a satisfying meal. Cooking Nilaga involves a slow simmering process which results in a flavorful broth and very tender beef. The added vegetables such as potatoes, cabbage, and string beans not only provide a burst of color but also make this dish nutritionally balanced. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the steps of making this classic Filipino dish at home.

Common questions

How long does it take to cook Nilaga? Nilaga usually takes around 1 to 2 hours to cook until the beef is tender, depending on the thickness and cut of the meat.
Can I use other meats instead of beef? Yes, you can use other meats like pork or chicken in place of beef to make a different variation of Nilaga.
Do I need to soak the beef before cooking? No, there is no need to soak the beef before cooking Nilaga.
Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! While potatoes, cabbage, carrots, string beans, and corn are traditional choices, you can add or substitute with other vegetables according to your preference.
Can I use beef broth instead of water? Yes, you can use beef broth instead of water to enhance the flavor of the Nilaga.
Can I use a pressure cooker to make Nilaga? Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to cook Nilaga. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, following the instructions for your specific pressure cooker.
Can I make Nilaga in advance? Yes, Nilaga can be made in advance. It actually tends to taste even better when reheated the next day as the flavors have had time to develop.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - A large pot is needed to cook the Nilaga and accommodate all the ingredients.
Knife - A knife is essential for slicing the beef, onions, garlic, and vegetables.
Cutting board - A cutting board provides a stable surface for safely chopping and preparing the ingredients.
Tongs - Tongs are useful for handling the beef and vegetables while cooking.
Ladle - A ladle helps in scooping and serving the Nilaga broth.
Soup bowls - Soup bowls are needed for serving the Nilaga.
Soup spoons - Soup spoons are used for eating the Nilaga.

Origin stories

Nilaga, also known as "Boiled Soup", is a comforting and hearty dish that has its roots in the Philippines. Traditionally cooked by Filipino families as a simple and nutritious meal, Nilaga takes time and patience to prepare as it slow-cooks to bring out the flavor of the beef and the natural sweetness of the vegetables. This beloved dish is more than just a soup, it's a manifestation of Filipino hospitality, often served when there are visitors, much like the way chicken soup is served in other cultures when someone is not feeling well. Much like the Filipino people themselves, Nilaga is warm, inviting, and full of depth.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.