How To Cook Mechadong Baka (Beef Mechado)
Mechadong Baka is a Filipino beef stew cooked in a savory tomato sauce with potatoes and carrots, offering a comforting and hearty dish rich in flavor.
Servings: 3 to 4 servings
Calories: 399kcal
Ingredients
- 1 kilo beef cut into bite size pieces
- 4 cloves garlic crushed
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 pcs potatoes cut into quarters
- 1 carrot cut into cubes
- 2 tsp. lemon juice o calamansi juice
- 2 tsp. soy sauce
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 pc bay leaves or laurel leaves
- salt to taste
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 2 cups water
- cooking oil
Instructions
How to Cook Mechadong Baka:
- When buying the beef, choose the meat with a little tendon. Cut the beef into bite size pieces.
- On a heavy skillet heat oil and stir fry the beef for a few minutes until it turns light brown. Set aside.
- On the skillet where you fry the beef, remove excess oil and retain at least 1 tablespoon.
- Saute garlic and onion until cooked and add the water, lemon juice or calamansi juice, soy sauce, pepper, tomato sauce, laurel leaves, salt and the beef.
- Simmer in low fire until the meat is tender. Then add the potatoes and carrots.
- Simmer for a few minutes until the potatoes and carrots are cooked.
- Tip: it is better to simmer the beef in low fire so the meat will release it's flavor.
Notes
Cooking Tips of Mechadong Baka Recipe:
- Selecting the Right Beef: When choosing beef for Mechadong Baka, opt for cuts with a moderate amount of marbling and tendon. These cuts, such as chuck or round, are ideal for slow cooking and will result in tender, flavorful meat.
- Searing for Flavor: Before simmering the beef, take the time to sear it in a hot skillet. Searing caramelizes the meat's surface, adding depth and richness to the dish. It also helps to lock in the beef's natural juices, ensuring a moist and flavorful end result.
- Low and Slow Simmering: To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, simmer the Mechadong Baka over low heat. This slow cooking method allows the meat to tenderize and the flavors to develop fully. Be patient and resist the urge to rush the cooking process for the best results.