How to cook Beef Caldereta
1
Brown the beef
Season beef with pepper. Heat oil in a heavy pot and brown the cubes in batches; set aside.
2
Sauté the base
Cook onion until soft, then add garlic. Stir in tomato sauce and cook for 2 minutes.
3
Braise until tender
Return beef to the pot with stock, bay leaves, and fish sauce. Cover and simmer gently for 75–90 minutes.
4
Add vegetables
Add potatoes and carrots. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until tender and the sauce reduces.
5
Finish the sauce
Stir in liver spread, bell pepper, olives, and peas. Cook for 5 minutes, then season to taste.
6
Plate and serve
Spoon caldereta into a deep bowl, keeping the vegetables visible,.
Maria’s tip: Keep the braise at a gentle simmer; rapid boiling can make the beef tough before it becomes tender.
Food safety: Keep raw beef separate from ready-to-eat foods and refrigerate leftovers promptly.