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There’s an undeniable warmth that fills the kitchen when Beef Pares simmers on the stove. As the tender beef brisket dances in the savory broth, rich with soy and oyster sauce, the savory aroma begins to entwine with the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table. One evening, after a long week of quick meals and takeout, I decided it was time to rediscover the heart of home cooking. With just a handful of humble ingredients, this Filipino classic emerged as a satisfying antidote to my fast-food fatigue.

Not only is it a feast for the senses, but Beef Pares is also a crowd-pleaser that can easily be adjusted to suit your taste buds or serve a larger group. Paired with aromatic garlic fried rice, this dish transforms any ordinary dinner into a comforting celebration. So, let’s put on our aprons, turn up the heat, and create a comforting bowl of Beef Pares that promises to bring love, warmth, and flavor back into our homes.

Why Is Beef Pares a Must-Try Dish?

Comforting: The heartwarming aroma of simmering beef fills your kitchen, instantly creating a cozy atmosphere.
Flavor Explosion: A rich blend of soy and oyster sauce infuses the beef with layers of taste, making each bite deeply satisfying.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to adjust the spices or add your favorite vegetables to personalize this classic dish.
Perfect for Sharing: Serve it at gatherings or family dinners; everyone will love diving into this comforting bowl of goodness.
Quick Prep: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it to simmer while you relax or prepare your favorite sides like garlic fried rice.
Crowd-Pleasing: Not just delicious, it’s a recipe that brings people together, making every meal special! Get ready to impress your guests with this heartwarming dish.

Beef Pares Ingredients

For the Beef and Broth
• 1 lb beef brisket or chuck – Cut into bite-sized cubes for tender bites; choose brisket for richness!
• 6 cups water – The foundation for creating a flavorful broth.
• 1 onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the broth with aromatic flavor.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – For that savory, umami boost!
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce – Enhances the richness of the beef and broth.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Balances the saltiness with a hint of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning the broth effectively.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a gentle kick to wake up your taste buds.
• 2 bay leaves – Imparts a wonderful aroma and flavor during simmering.
• 1 star anise (optional) – A unique addition for a hint of warmth and complexity.

For the Sauté
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil – Used for sautéing, adding a touch of richness.
• 1 onion, thinly sliced – Sweetens and complements the beef beautifully.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Extra flavor to make the dish even more delightful.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Reinforces the savory flavor in the sautéed mix.
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce – Brings depth and complexity to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the savory notes.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons water – Thickens the sauce perfectly.

For the Garlic Fried Rice
• 2 cups cooked rice – A perfect base to soak up the rich flavors of the Beef Pares.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Gives that signature garlic punch to the rice.
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil – Helps fry the rice to golden perfection.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning according to your preference.
• Green onions, chopped, for garnish – Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.

This delightful beef pares recipe is a jubilant journey back to the heart of home-cooked meals!

How to Make Beef Pares

Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the beef cubes, water, chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, bay leaves, and star anise if desired. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat to simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender. Skim off any scum that rises to the surface during this time.
Sauté Aromatics: In a separate pan, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Sauté the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
Add Beef to Pan: Gently add the cooked beef cubes to the pan with the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and the dissolved cornstarch. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and beautifully coats the beef. Remove from heat.
Prepare Garlic Fried Rice: In a skillet, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until golden and fragrant. Then, mix in the cooked rice, stir-frying until it’s well coated with the garlic-infused oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Dish out the Beef Pares hot, garnished with fresh chopped green onions, and serve alongside the aromatic garlic fried rice for a comforting and filling meal.

Optional: Top with a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Beef Pares

Choose the Right Cut: Use beef brisket or chuck for optimal tenderness; these cuts become flavorful and melt-in-your-mouth delicious when simmered.

Simmer Low and Slow: Cook on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours to achieve maximum tenderness. Avoid rushing this stage; it’s key for a rich broth.

Skim the Scum: Regularly skim off any scum that rises to the surface while simmering. This keeps your broth clear and results in a more refined flavor.

Thicken Smartly: When adding the cornstarch slurry, ensure it’s mixed with water to avoid lumps. Stir constantly to achieve a smooth, thick sauce.

Make Extra Rice: Cook some extra garlic fried rice for leftovers; it pairs perfectly with other dishes and is a great way to utilize any remaining Beef Pares broth.

Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the green onion garnish; it adds a fresh, vibrant touch that elevates the dish and enhances the flavors of your Beef Pares.

How to Store and Freeze Beef Pares

Fridge: Store any leftover Beef Pares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: Beef Pares can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Beef Pares, reheat in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Serving Suggestion: Pair with freshly made garlic fried rice for a complete meal once thawed and reheated.

Make Ahead Options

These Beef Pares are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade comfort food without the last-minute rush! You can braise the beef in the broth up to 3 days in advance; just let it cool and refrigerate it in the cooking liquid to help maintain its moisture and flavor. The sautéed mixture can also be prepared ahead of time and stored separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat everything up in a pan, add the dissolved cornstarch, and let it thicken for a few minutes. Pair it with fresh garlic fried rice, and relish the fact that your delicious Beef Pares are just as incredible, even after a quick reheat!

Beef Pares Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Beef Pares even more exciting!

Spicy Kick: Add sliced red chili or chili flakes for a tantalizing heat that perfectly complements the savory flavors.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in some bok choy, carrots, or bell peppers during the simmer to add color and nutrition while boosting the flavor profile.
Coconut Cream: Stir in a splash of coconut milk towards the end for a creamy, tropical twist that enhances the richness of the broth.
Ginger Zing: Add fresh ginger slices during cooking for an aromatic, warming flavor that elevates the dish’s profile.
Mushroom Umami: Include shiitake or button mushrooms during the simmer for added earthiness that complements the beef beautifully.
Herbal Brightness: Incorporate fresh cilantro or basil just before serving to provide a refreshing note and vibrant color.
Rice Alternatives: Swap traditional rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier, low-carb option while still enjoying those mesmerizing flavors.
Gluten-Free Friendly: If needed, replace soy and oyster sauces with tamari and gluten-free oyster sauce for a similarly rich taste without the gluten.

Let your culinary creativity shine while you savor the comforting essence of Beef Pares!

What to Serve with Beef Pares?

Elevate your Beef Pares experience with delightful sides that enhance the comforting flavors and textures of this hearty dish.

Garlic Fried Rice: The aromatic, garlic-infused rice not only complements the richness of the beef but also soaks up the delicious broth beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
Steamed Vegetables: Crisp-tender broccoli, carrots, or green beans provide a fresh contrast to the savory beef. Their vibrant colors also brighten the plate, adding visual appeal!
Pancit Bihon: This flavorful stir-fried noodle dish is a fantastic way to extend your meal, with its savory sauce and crunchy vegetables balancing the rich flavors of the Beef Pares.
Fried Egg: A sunny-side-up or over-easy egg on the side adds a creamy richness and a touch of indulgence. The yolk’s creaminess beautifully complements the savory beef!
Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing cucumber salad brings a cool, crisp crunch that pairs wonderfully with the warmth and richness of the Beef Pares.
Chilled Fruit Dessert: Finish your meal with a light fruit salad or mango sorbet. The sweet, refreshing flavors provide a delightful contrast and cleanse the palate nicely.
Herbal Tea: Pair your dinner with a soothing cup of herbal tea to round out the comforting experience. Its gentle flavors will harmonize perfectly with the robust taste of the dish.

Beef Pares Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best beef for Beef Pares?
Absolutely! For Beef Pares, I recommend using beef brisket or chuck. Brisket offers a delicious richness, while chuck provides great tenderness. Look for meat that has a good marbling of fat, as this helps keep the beef moist and flavorful during the long simmering process.

How do I store leftover Beef Pares?
Great question! Store any leftover Beef Pares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, be gentle; warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated throughout. Adding a splash of broth will keep it moist and delicious!

Can I freeze Beef Pares?
Yes, you can! Beef Pares can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight, and when ready, reheat gently on low heat, adding a little water or broth to maintain moisture.

What should I do if my broth is oily?
That can happen sometimes! If you find your broth too oily after simmering, simply skim off the excess fat with a spoon once the pot cools slightly. Alternatively, you can chill the broth; the fat will solidify on the surface, making it easy to remove.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very much so! This recipe contains soy sauce and oyster sauce, which are not suitable for those with soy allergies or following a gluten-free diet. Always check the labels if you need gluten-free versions of these sauces. Additionally, if you’re cooking for pets, be mindful that garlic can be harmful to dogs, so ensure they don’t get any leftovers.

How can I make Beef Pares a bit spicier?
If you like a kick, feel free to add chili flakes or slices of fresh chili during the simmering stage! Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste; the heat will build as the dish cooks. Enjoy exploring the flavors!