Authentic Filipino Nilagang Baka Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 kilogram of beef shank
  • 1 medium-sized onion, quartered
  • 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
  • 1 tablespoon of peppercorns
  • 2 medium-sized potatoes, quartered
  • 2 medium-sized carrots, sliced
  • 1 bunch of bok choy
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 piece of corn on the cob, sliced into 4 parts
  • 10 cups of water

Steps and instructions

  1. Place the beef shank in a large pot, then add water until the beef is fully submerged.
  2. Add the onion, garlic, and peppercorns to the pot.
  3. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 3 hours or until the beef is tender.
  4. Add the potatoes, carrots, and corn to the pot and let it cook for another 15 minutes.
  5. Add the bok choy and salt to the pot, stir, and let it cook for another 5 minutes.
  6. Turn off the heat and serve the Nilagang Baka hot. Enjoy this comfort food with a side of steamed rice.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - A pot large enough to hold the beef shank and the other ingredients.
  • Knife - A knife for cutting the vegetables and preparing the ingredients.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board to chop and slice the vegetables.
  • Serving bowls - Bowls for serving the Nilagang Baka.
  • Soup ladle - A ladle for scooping and serving the soup.

Recipe variations

  • Use different cuts of beef such as brisket, short ribs, or beef chuck instead of beef shank.
  • Add other vegetables such as cabbage, green beans, or celery to the recipe.
  • Experiment with different seasonings like bay leaves, dried herbs, or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor.
  • Make it spicy by adding chili flakes, Sriracha sauce, or fresh chili peppers.
  • For a healthier option, replace the beef with chicken or make it meat-free by using vegetable broth and adding tofu or mushrooms.
  • Add tomatoes or tomato paste for a slightly tangy flavor.
  • Garnish with chopped scallions, cilantro, or parsley to add freshness.
  • Serve with a side of fish sauce, soy sauce, or calamansi for extra flavor.

Recipe overview

This recipe is for the classic Filipino dish, Nilagang Baka, a comforting beef soup filled with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, bok choy, and corn. With its savory, clear broth and melt-in-your-mouth tender beef, this dish is perfect for cold weather or any time you need a hearty meal. Preparation is straightforward, simply allowing the ingredients to boil together and letting the flavors meld over time. The result is a rich and flavorful soup that is often enjoyed with a side of steamed rice. Whether you're familiar with Filipino cuisine or trying it for the first time, you're sure to enjoy this delicious and nutritious dish.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as brisket or short ribs, but the cooking time may vary. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat becomes tender.
  2. Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like cabbage, green beans, or even mushrooms to customize the dish to your liking.
  3. How can I make the broth more flavorful? To enhance the flavor of the broth, you can add beef bouillon or broth cubes. You can also experiment with adding herbs and spices like bay leaves, thyme, or rosemary.
  4. Can I use a pressure cooker to speed up the cooking time? Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to reduce the cooking time. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cooking beef and adjust the time accordingly.
  5. How do I store the leftovers? If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large Pot - A pot large enough to hold all the ingredients and accommodate the boiling process.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for chopping the vegetables and slicing the corn.
  • Cutting Board - A sturdy cutting board to safely chop the vegetables.
  • Serving Bowls - Bowls for serving the Nilagang Baka.
  • Soup Ladle - A ladle for scooping and serving the broth and ingredients.
  • Soup Spoons - Spoons specifically designed for consuming soups.
  • Tongs - Tongs for handling the beef and other ingredients while cooking.

Origin stories

Nilagang Baka, a hearty and comforting soup, has long been a culinary staple in the Philippines. Its origins can be traced back to Spanish colonization, as it shares similarities with the Spanish dish "cocido", a type of boiled meat dish. However, the Filipinos modified the recipe to cater to local taste and available ingredients, such as bok choy and corn on the cob. This beloved dish is often enjoyed during the rainy season or any day when one craves for a bowl of warmth and comfort. An interesting tidbit is that Nilagang Baka is often used as a litmus test for the skills of new cooks, as the dish, while simple in ingredients, requires delicate balancing of flavors and perfect timing to achieve the tender, flavorful meat and well-cooked vegetables that are the dish's trademark.

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.