Beef Pares Recipes : Step-by-Step Guide the best taste 2025

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A Taste of Home: Why Beef Pares Holds a Special Place in Every Filipino Heart

There’s something magical about the first whiff of simmering beef wafting through the kitchen. You know the moment—when the scent alone starts pulling you in, calling you back to comfort and family. Beef pares isn’t just a dish; it’s a memory tucked inside a warm plate of braised beef, garlic rice, and clear soup. Maybe you’ve had it from a street vendor on a busy Manila corner, or maybe you’ve watched your lola stir a bubbling pot with that knowing smile. Either way, you’re here now, ready to bring that magic into your own kitchen. And that’s exactly what you’re going to do.

What Is Beef Pares? A Filipino Classic Explained

Understanding Beef Pares and Its Cultural Roots

Beef pares, in its simplest form, means “beef pair.” The term comes from its signature trio: tender beef stew, garlic fried rice, and a bowl of broth. Originally made famous in roadside eateries or “carinderias,” this humble dish quickly made its way into Filipino homes and hearts. It’s sweet, savory, comforting, and unmistakably Pinoy.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Pares Recipe

Deep flavor from slow-simmered beef and rich aromatics
Pantry staples mean you probably already have what you need
Flexible enough to tweak for spice, sweetness, or tang
Perfect comfort food for rainy days, hangouts, or cravings

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Beef Pares

Main Ingredients Table

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Beef brisket or shank	1 kg	Choose cuts with connective tissue for tenderness
Soy sauce	1/2 cup	For umami and depth
Brown sugar	2 tbsp	Balances the savory with subtle sweetness
Star anise	2 pcs	For a warm, distinctive aroma
Ginger	1 thumb-sized	Crushed, adds heat and zest
Garlic	5 cloves	Minced, rich in flavor
Onion	1 medium	Sliced
Water	4 cups	Base for braising and broth
Beef bouillon cube	1 pc	Optional but adds richness
Salt & pepper	To taste	For final seasoning
Cornstarch slurry	2 tbsp	Thickens the sauce

Optional Add-ons

Sliced chili or chili oil for a spicy kick
Spring onions as garnish
Calamansi or lemon for brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions to Cook Tender, Flavorful Beef Pares

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by cutting your beef into chunky cubes, around 1.5 inches each. Bring a pot of water to a boil, toss in the beef, and let it boil for about 3–4 minutes. This step removes scum and impurities. Discard the water and rinse the beef under running water.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot or deep pan, heat some oil and sauté garlic, onion, and ginger. Let them cook until golden and fragrant. This is your flavor base—don’t rush it.

Step 3: Braise the Beef

Add the cleaned beef to the pot, then pour in the soy sauce, sugar, and enough water to cover the meat. Toss in your star anise and bouillon cube if you’re using one. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and cover. Let it simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. The goal? Fork-tender beef that practically melts in your mouth.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Once your beef is tender, remove it from the pot. Continue simmering the sauce to reduce it slightly. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the sauce. Let it bubble until it thickens to a rich glaze. Return the beef to the pot and coat it in that glossy goodness.

Step 5: Serve with the Perfect Pairings

You can’t enjoy pares without its perfect partners:

Garlic fried rice: Crispy garlic, day-old rice, and a bit of oil
Beef broth: Strain the braising liquid or simmer beef bones separately for a clearer soup

Beef Pares Variations You’ll Want to Try

Beef Pares Mami

Combine beef pares with noodles and broth for a hearty, soul-soothing soup. Add boiled eggs, bok choy, and scallions.

Spicy Beef Pares

Toss in some chili oil or sliced chilies to give your pares a fiery twist. Perfect for spice lovers.

Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Beef Pares

Instant Pot: Cook on high pressure for 35–40 minutes.
Slow Cooker: Set on low for 6–8 hours for effortless, hands-off cooking.

Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Pares Recipe

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

Brisket and shank are your best bets. They have just enough fat and connective tissue to turn tender and flavorful when braised.

Simmering Secrets

Keep the heat low and steady.
Skim off foam and fat occasionally for a cleaner broth.

Taste Testing Tips

Adjust sugar or soy sauce as needed for balance.
A splash of calamansi or lemon can cut through richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Beef Pares

Mistake #1: Rushing the Braising Time

Beef needs time to break down. Shortcuts lead to chewy, disappointing results.

Mistake #2: Using Lean Cuts

Avoid lean beef—it turns dry and lacks that luxurious mouthfeel.

Mistake #3: Overdoing the Spices

Star anise is bold. One too many and it overpowers the dish.

Mistake #4: Skipping the Rest Period

Resting the meat in its sauce allows the flavors to deepen even more.

How to Store and Reheat Beef Pares Properly

Storage Tips

Cool completely before refrigerating
Store in airtight containers
Keeps for 3–4 days in the fridge

Freezing Instructions

Freeze in meal-sized portions
Lasts up to 2 months

Reheating Without Drying Out

Reheat on low heat on the stove
Add a splash of water to loosen the sauce

Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Pares Recipe

What cut of beef is best for beef pares?

Go for cuts with fat and connective tissue like brisket or shank. These become buttery-soft after slow cooking.

Can I make beef pares ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better after resting overnight as the flavors fully develop.

Is beef pares healthy?

It can be. Control the oil, salt, and sugar, and pair with veggies or brown rice for balance.

What should I serve with beef pares?

Classic garlic fried rice, clear soup, or even noodles if you want to turn it into mami.

How do I make my beef pares more flavorful?

Don’t skip the aromatics, use bone broth or bouillon, and rest the dish before serving.

Conclusion: Bring the Comfort of Beef Pares to Your Table Today

You started this journey in search of flavor, and now you hold the key to one of the Philippines’ most beloved dishes. With your kitchen tools and these simple steps, you’re not just cooking—you’re reviving tradition, feeding your soul, and creating something worth sharing. So fire up that stove, stir up that sauce, and bring beef pares home, your way.

Ready to make your own beef pares? Share your dish online, tag your friends, or pass the recipe to someone who needs a taste of comfort. Your kitchen is now part of the story.