Beef Afritada: A Hearty Filipino Stew That Warms the Tummy
This Beef Afritada Recipe is the ultimate Filipino comfort food—a vibrant, tomato-based stew packed with fork-tender beef, hearty potatoes, sweet carrots, and colorful bell peppers. Simmered in a rich, slightly sweet tomato sauce, this dish is a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave a taste of home.
🍖 Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef – Slow-cooked until buttery soft
🍅 Savory-Sweet Tomato Sauce – Thick, flavorful, and perfect with rice
🥕 Colorful Veggies – Potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers add texture and nutrition
⏱ Easy to Make – Simple steps for a restaurant-quality result
✔ Beef chuck or brisket (for maximum tenderness)
✔ Tomato sauce & paste (for depth of flavor)
✔ Fish sauce (patis) – The secret umami booster
✔ Bell peppers – Red and green for color and sweetness
🍚 With Steamed Rice – The classic Filipino way
🥖 With Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the sauce
🥗 With Green Salad – For a fresh contrast
✨ For extra richness, add a splash of beef broth
✨ Want it spicy? Toss in a chili pepper while simmering
✨ Make ahead – Tastes even better the next day!
Beef Afritada isn’t just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. The tender beef, sweet veggies, and savory tomato sauce create a harmony of flavors that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
Ready to cook this Filipino favorite? Your kitchen will smell amazing!
*Love stews? Try our *Beef Caldereta* or Mechado next!* 😊🍲
P.S. For a quicker version, use a pressure cooker to cut cooking time in half!
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The entire family will enjoy this simple dish known as beef afritada recipe. With fork-tender beef, potatoes, carrot, and colorful bell peppers in a thick, savory tomato sauce, this Filipino beef stew is filling and delicious!
Cut the beef into 2-inch cubes. Set aside.
Peel, chop, and cube the vegetables and spices needed for the recipe.
Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add potatoes and carrots and fan fry both sides until lightly browned. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels.
Next, pan-fry the bell peppers for about 30 to 45 seconds. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels.
On the same pan, take out some of the oil and just leave 2 tablespoons for sauteing. Add the onion, and saute for 30 seconds. Then add the garlic and saute until aromatic.
Add the beef and cook for about 5 minutes on both sides or until lightly browned.
Stir in fish sauce; add tomato sauce and tomato paste. Stir until well distributed. Add water and bring to a boil.
Lower the heat, cover, and cook for 1 1/2 hours or until the beef gets tender.
Add the pan-fried potatoes and carrots and continue to cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce is slightly thickened and reduced as desired.
Add the bell pepper, stir and season with salt and pepper to taste. Then keep cooking for 1 to 2 minutes.
Taste it and adjust it as necessary before serving. Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm with a side of steamed rice.
Share and enjoy the food. Happy cooking!
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.