Simple Beef Mechado Recipe
Beef Mechado is a flavorful Filipino dish that’s typically made by braising beef chunks in a rich tomato sauce, but this simplified version focuses on marinating and tenderizing the beef with soy sauce and lemon. It’s a savory, tangy dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice.
Ingredients:
- 1 kilogram beef chunks (choose a tender cut like beef stew meat or chuck)
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- ½ sliced lemon (for juice)
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
1. Marinate the beef:
- In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, lemon juice, and ground black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Add the beef chunks to the bowl and toss to coat the beef in the marinade. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the beef to marinate and absorb the flavors.
2. Cook the beef:
- After marinating, heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add the marinated beef (with the marinade) and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning the beef pieces to ensure they brown slightly on all sides.
3. Braise the beef:
- Add enough water to the pan to just cover the beef. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 1-1.5 hours or until the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally, and add more water as needed to prevent the beef from drying out.
4. Adjust seasoning:
- Once the beef is tender, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce or pepper if needed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken the liquid.
5. Serve:
- Once the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove from heat. Serve the Simple Beef Mechado over steamed rice for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Beef choice: If you prefer a richer, melt-in-your-mouth beef texture, you can also use beef cuts like brisket or short ribs, which are ideal for slow cooking.
- Optional veggies: For added flavor and texture, you can include vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers towards the end of cooking. Add them around 30 minutes before the beef finishes cooking.
- Add a little sweetness: Some versions of Mechado include a bit of tomato sauce or sugar to balance the savory and tangy flavors, but this simplified version is perfect if you want to keep it light and straightforward.
This Simple Beef Mechado is a quick and easy way to enjoy the savory flavors of this Filipino classic with minimal effort. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
