Discover the Best Beef Pares Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide to Tender, Flavorful Meat

There’s something about a warm, savory bowl of beef pares that strikes a chord deep inside you. Maybe it’s the way the soy-based sauce coats the tender cubes of beef or how that comforting aroma lingers as the dish simmers on your stove. If you’ve ever craved a meal that brings nostalgia, comfort, and rich flavor all in one, then this beef pares recipe will feel like it was made just for you.

Whether you’re rekindling memories of late-night carinderia meals or tasting this Filipino favorite for the first time, learning how to cook beef pares from scratch transforms your kitchen into a comforting haven. Let’s walk through a step-by-step journey to mastering a dish that’s not only beloved in the Philippines but also growing in popularity among global food lovers like yourself.

What Is Beef Pares and Why It’s a Filipino Favorite

You may have heard about beef pares in passing or even tasted a version of it, but do you know its humble roots?

A Quick History of Beef Pares

The word “pares” literally means “pair” in Filipino—and once you try this dish, you’ll understand why. It’s a trio at heart: tender beef cooked in a sweet-savory sauce, garlic fried rice, and a hot, clear beef broth. But it’s that first pairing—beef and rice—that won Filipinos over, especially those looking for a filling, affordable, and flavor-packed meal.

Originating from the bustling streets of Quezon City in the 1970s, beef pares was the brainchild of eateries that wanted to serve fast yet satisfying meals. Over time, its reputation grew, and it became a comfort dish for countless households.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Pares Recipe

You don’t need to be a seasoned cook to nail this recipe. You just need the right ingredients, a bit of patience, and a craving for something warm and soulful. Here’s what makes this recipe special:

• Melt-in-your-mouth beef that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked for hours (because it has).
• A sauce that’s balanced—sweet, salty, and deeply aromatic.
• It pairs effortlessly with rice and soup, making it a complete meal on one plate.
• You can make it ahead, store it, and even modify it to fit your taste.

Essential Ingredients for the Best Beef Pares Recipe

Before you get cooking, gather all the elements that contribute to this dish’s signature taste. Every ingredient plays a role, so choose quality and freshness where possible.

Beef and Aromatics

You’ll want a cut of beef that can become fork-tender with time—something with connective tissue and marbling. Brisket is ideal, but beef shank or short ribs will also do.

• Beef brisket – flavorful, gets more tender the longer it simmers
• Garlic, onions, and ginger – your aromatic base

Flavorful Seasonings

To get that authentic pares taste, your seasoning blend must walk the line between savory and sweet.

• Soy sauce – adds deep umami flavor
• Oyster sauce – boosts richness
• Star anise – delivers the unique pares aroma
• Brown sugar – balances the saltiness
• Pepper and optional chili – round off the flavor

Recipe Ingredients Table

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Cook the Best Beef Pares

You’re now ready to bring this dish to life. Follow each step with care, and you’ll end up with a bowl full of flavor that’ll make your kitchen smell like a Filipino eatery.

Step 1: Sear and Sauté for Maximum Flavor

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a deep pot.
2. Brown the beef in batches—this locks in the flavor and creates a nice crust.
3. In the same pot, sauté garlic until golden, add onions and ginger, and cook until fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer Low and Slow

1. Return all the beef to the pot.
2. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and star anise.
3. Pour in enough water to cover the beef.
4. Simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, checking occasionally for tenderness.

Tip: The longer you simmer, the more tender your beef becomes. Don’t rush it—let the magic happen slowly.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

1. Once beef is tender, remove the meat and set aside.
2. Boil the remaining liquid to reduce it.
3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce reaches a glossy, thick consistency.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Fried Rice and Broth

For garlic fried rice:

• Sauté minced garlic in oil until crispy.
• Add day-old rice and stir-fry until well combined.
• Season with a touch of salt or soy sauce.

For broth:

• Skim off excess fat from the simmering pot.
• Add a little water, season lightly with salt and pepper.
• Serve hot alongside your beef pares and rice.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

• Plate your garlic rice beside a generous scoop of beef pares.
• Ladle the broth into a small bowl.
• Garnish with chopped scallions or crispy garlic bits.

Tips for Perfectly Tender and Flavorful Beef Pares

Getting it just right takes more than following steps. Here’s how you can elevate your dish:

Choose the Right Cut of Meat

• Brisket or short ribs deliver the best texture after a long simmer.
• Avoid lean cuts—they dry out and lack richness.

Cook It Low and Slow

• This isn’t a 30-minute meal. Be patient. Simmering gently gives you tender meat and a rich, deep sauce.

Balance the Flavors

• Taste frequently and adjust—add sugar if too salty, or water if too strong.

Storage and Leftovers

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for longer storage; reheat gently to maintain texture.

Variations and Twists on the Classic Beef Pares Recipe

While tradition is great, you can add your own spin on it.

Spicy Beef Pares

• Add red chili flakes or chili oil to the sauce for heat.
• Serve with pickled chilies for contrast.

Pares Mami (Noodle Soup)

• Swap out the rice for egg noodles.
• Pour the broth over and add bok choy or soft-boiled egg for extra richness.

Chicken or Vegetarian Pares

• Use chicken thighs for a lighter version.
• Or go meat-free with mushrooms and tofu—just adjust your seasoning to keep the flavor profile balanced.

Why This Beef Pares Recipe Stands Out

There are countless recipes out there, but this one brings together the essence of authenticity and ease. You don’t need specialty equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just a bit of care and the willingness to enjoy the cooking process.

Authentic Taste with Modern Simplicity

• Made with ingredients you probably already have
• Keeps the traditional flavor intact while simplifying the method

Family-Friendly and Budget-Conscious

• One pot feeds many, with leftovers that get better the next day
• Cost-effective ingredients make it perfect for weekly meal plans

Meal Prep Friendly

• Stores beautifully for busy days
• Can be portioned for lunchboxes or reheated on demand

Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Pares Recipe

What is the best beef cut for pares?

The ideal cut is brisket, thanks to its marbling and connective tissues. It turns meltingly soft when slow-cooked, making your pares indulgently tender.

Can I make beef pares in a pressure cooker?

Absolutely. A pressure cooker speeds up the process. Cook on high pressure for about 30 to 35 minutes for similar results.

How do I prevent the beef from drying out?

Ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot and avoid overcooking after thickening the sauce. Always keep the heat gentle.

Is this beef pares recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and double-check your oyster sauce label.

Can I freeze beef pares?

Yes, just let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers. Reheat gently on the stove to retain flavor and texture.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Awaits

When you prepare beef pares at home, you’re not just cooking a meal—you’re creating a moment. A moment of warmth, of flavor, of tradition that speaks to your senses and fills your home with joy.

This beef pares recipe has everything you need: depth of flavor, tenderness, and the kind of satisfaction that only home-cooked food can offer. Whether you serve it to family, friends, or enjoy it alone on a quiet evening, it delivers comfort in every bite.

Now it’s your turn. Fire up your stove, gather your ingredients, and dive into the rewarding process of creating the best beef pares you’ve ever tasted. And when you do—don’t forget to share it. After all, the best dishes are meant to be enjoyed together.