Beef Afritada Recipe (Afritadang Baka)

Prep Work

1. Beef: Cut the beef meat into cubes. Pat dry cubes with paper towels (helps browning).

2. Vegetables: Cube potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers uniformly (for even cooking).

Sear Vegetables (Optional but Recommended)

1. Heat enough cooking oil in a large pan over medium-high.
2. Briefly fry potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers for 2–3 minutes until edges caramelize. Remove and set aside (locks in texture).
   Note: this method is optional but this will prevent the vegetables from getting spoiled.

Brown the Beef

1. In the same pan, add 2 tbsp oil. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant (~1 minute).
2. Add beef in a single layer. Sear 5–7 minutes until browned on all sides (develops flavor).

Build the Sauce

1. Stir in fish sauce, then add tomato paste and tomato sauce. Stir well until it well distribute. Cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
2. Pour in water/broth to cover the beef by 1 inch. Scrape the pan bottom to release browned bits (adds richness).

Simmer to Tenderness

1. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add more liquid if needed.
2. Test doneness: Beef should pierce easily with a fork but hold shape.

Add Vegetables & Finish

1. Gently stir in pre-cooked vegetables.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar (balances acidity). Stir to distribute well the seasonings.

3. Cover again and simmer for 5 minutes or until the vegetables get the right softness. Adjust the taste as necessary according to your preference.

Serve

1. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Best with steamed rice or crusty bread!

   Watch the step-by-step video. Please visit us on YouTube: [Beef Afritada]. Thank you.