Authentic Filipino Tapang Kabayo Recipe: A Taste of Exotic Delicacy

Ingredients

  • 1 kilogram Horse Meat, cut into serving size pieces
  • 1 cup Vinegar
  • 1/2 cup Soy Sauce
  • 1 head Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Whole Peppercorn
  • 1 piece Bay Leaf
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Salt
  • 1/4 cup Cooking Oil
  • 1 cup Water

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, whole peppercorn, bay leaf, brown sugar and salt. Mix well.
  2. Add the horse meat to the bowl and marinate it in the mixture for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
  3. After marinating, drain the horse meat but keep the marinade for later use.
  4. Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the horse meat and sear all sides until brown.
  5. Pour in the marinade and add water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer until the meat is tender. This could take about 1 to 2 hours. Add more water if necessary.
  7. Once the meat is tender and the sauce has reduced to your preferred consistency, remove the pan from the heat.
  8. Serve the Tapang Kabayo with rice and enjoy!

Tools for making

  • Large Bowl - Used for marinating the horse meat
  • Pan - Used for searing and simmering the horse meat
  • Cooking Oil - Used for frying the horse meat
  • Measuring Cup - Used to accurately measure the vinegar, soy sauce, and water
  • Knife - Used to cut the horse meat into serving size pieces
  • Garlic Press - Used to mince the garlic

Recipe variations

  • Use a different type of meat instead of horse meat, such as beef or pork.
  • Experiment with different marinades, such as adding calamansi juice, Worcestershire sauce, or oyster sauce.
  • Add spices or herbs to the marinade, such as ginger, chili flakes, or lemongrass, to give it an extra kick.
  • Try grilling the meat instead of pan-searing it for a smoky flavor.
  • For a sweeter version, add pineapple juice or honey to the marinade.
  • Include vegetables in the dish, such as bell peppers, onions, or carrots, to add more texture and flavor.
  • Replace the soy sauce with fish sauce or tamari for a different umami taste.
  • For a healthier option, use lean cuts of meat or opt for a meat-free alternative like tofu or tempeh.
  • Experiment with different cooking methods, such as slow-cooking or pressure cooking, to achieve different textures and flavors.
  • Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the dish before serving for a tangy twist.

Recipe overview

Tapang Kabayo, or Horse Meat Tapas, is a popular dish in the Philippines known for its distinctive taste and tender meat. This savory and slightly sweet dish is prepared by marinating horse meat in a combination of spices and seasonings, including vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, peppercorn, and bay leaf. The marinated meat is then seared to perfection and simmered until tender. Typically served with rice, Tapang Kabayo offers an adventurous and satisfying dining experience. Although the preparation and cooking process requires time and patience, the flavorful result is well worth the wait. Get ready to step out of your comfort zone and enjoy this unique, exotic dish!

Common questions

  1. Can I use other types of meat instead of horse meat? No, Tapang Kabayo specifically uses horse meat. However, if you cannot find horse meat or prefer not to use it, you can try using beef as a substitute.
  2. How long should I marinate the horse meat? It is best to marinate the horse meat for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  3. Can I reuse the marinade? No, it is not recommended to reuse the marinade as it has come into contact with raw meat. It is safer to discard the marinade and use fresh marinade for cooking.
  4. How do I know when the meat is tender? The meat should be cooked until it is easily pierced with a fork or until it reaches your desired tenderness. Cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the meat, so it is important to check periodically.
  5. Can I adjust the amount of sugar or salt in the recipe? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar and salt according to your personal taste preferences. Start with the recommended amounts and add more if desired.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large Bowl - A large bowl is needed for marinating the horse meat.
  • Pan - A pan is used for searing and simmering the meat.
  • Tongs - Tongs are helpful for flipping and handling the meat during cooking.
  • Spatula - A spatula can be used for stirring the meat and sauce while simmering.
  • Measuring Cups - Measuring cups are needed for accurately measuring the vinegar, soy sauce, and other ingredients.
  • Knife - A knife is necessary for cutting the horse meat into serving size pieces.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting the meat.
  • Refrigerator - A refrigerator is needed for marinating the horse meat overnight.

Origin stories

Tapang Kabayo, also known as Horse Meat Tapas, is a delicacy that originated from the province of Pampanga in the Philippines. Pampanga, being known as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, offers a vast array of exotic and indigenous dishes that have been passed down through generations, one of them being Tapang Kabayo. The term "tapas" comes from the Spanish word "tapar" which means "to cover" and refers to a variety of appetizers or snacks that are commonly served in the bars of Spain. However, in the Philippines, the term "tapas" refers to the method of preservation and preparation of the meat. In this context, it means the meat has been cured or marinated overnight before being fried and served traditionally with rice, often as a breakfast dish. Tapang Kabayo gained its popularity because of its unique, strong and gamey flavor which is balanced with the sweet and tangy marinade. It's definitely a must-try for the adventurous foodie.

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.