Beef Mechado Recipe | How to Cook Mechadong Baka

beef chuck

🥗Healthier: chicken thigh

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Chicken thigh is lower in fat, while pork shoulder is more affordable.

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: low-sodium soy sauce

💰Cheaper: tamari

Low-sodium soy sauce reduces sodium intake, while tamari is often cheaper.

vinegar

🥗Healthier: citrus juice

💰Cheaper: apple cider vinegar

Citrus juice adds brightness, while apple cider vinegar is usually less expensive.

potatoes

🥗Healthier: sweet potatoes

💰Cheaper: yams

Sweet potatoes offer more nutrients, while yams are often cheaper.

Marinate beef in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and black pepper for at least 30 minutes.

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Sear marinated beef until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove beef and set aside; add onions to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in tomato sauce and return beef to the pot.

Add water, bay leaves, and sugar; bring to a simmer.

Cover and cook on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, until beef is tender.

Add potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers; cook for an additional 20-30 minutes.

Season with salt and adjust flavors as needed.

Serve hot with steamed rice.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens