Nilagang Baka: The Ultimate Filipino Beef Soup Recipe

Nilagang Baka.

Nilagang Baka: The Ultimate Filipino Beef Soup Recipe

Nilagang Baka, which translates to "boiled beef," is a beloved Filipino comfort food. This hearty soup features tender beef, a medley of vegetables, and a flavorful broth. It's a staple in Filipino cuisine, enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it's a rainy day or a special occasion, Nilagang Baka always hits the spot. This simple yet satisfying soup is ideal for chilly days as the warmth of the stockpot heats up the kitchen.

Yields: 6 servings

Prep time: 1 hour

Cook time: 1 1/2 hours

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Beef	2 lbs	Beef shank, brisket, or short ribs are ideal. Cut into serving pieces. Tougher cuts of beef, like shank or brisket, are often preferred for Nilagang Baka because they become more tender with longer cooking, unlike more expensive cuts that may become tough.
Water	8 cups	Or enough to cover the beef in the pot. For a richer flavor, you can substitute some or all of the water with beef broth.
Onion	1 medium	Quartered
Garlic	6 cloves	Crushed
Peppercorns	1/4 tsp	Whole peppercorns
Fish sauce (patis)	2 tbsp
Potatoes	2 medium	Quartered
Corn on the cob	2 pcs	Each cut into 3 pieces
Green beans	8-10 pcs	Cut into 2 1/2 inch length
Pechay (bok choy)	3 bundles	Washed and trimmed
Green onions	3 stalks	Cut into 2 1/2 inch length
Salt	To taste

Instructions:

1. Soak the beef: To ensure a clear broth, soak the beef in a large bowl of water for at least 1 hour, changing the water 1-2 times when it gets cloudy. This helps remove impurities from the beef.

   
   

2. Parboil the beef: After soaking, drain the beef and transfer it to a large pot. Add enough water to cover the beef and bring it to a boil over high heat. Let it boil for about 3 minutes to further remove impurities. Drain the beef and rinse it again.

   
   

3. Prepare the beef: Rinse the beef under cold water and pat it dry. Place the beef in a large pot and add enough water (or beef broth) to cover the meat. Bring the water to a boil over medium-low heat. As the water heats, scum will rise to the surface.

   
   

4. Skim and simmer: Skim off the scum and discard it. Add the garlic, onion, and peppercorns to the pot. Cover and simmer until the beef is tender, approximately 1 1/2 hours. The cooking time will vary depending on the cut of beef you use. Add more water if necessary to keep the meat submerged.

   
   

5. Add the vegetables: Add the corn cobs and simmer for 10 minutes. Then, add the potatoes and simmer for another 5 minutes, or until half cooked. Next, add the green beans and fish sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the green beans are almost cooked.

   
   

6. Final touches: Add the pechay and green onions to the pot. Season with salt to taste. Simmer for 3 more minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

   
   

7. Serve: Ladle the Nilagang Baka into bowls and serve hot..

   
   

Choosing the Right Cut

While the recipe traditionally calls for beef shank, brisket, or short ribs, you can explore other options depending on your preference and availability. Beef chuck, also known as "paypay" in the Philippines, is a flavorful and affordable choice. For an even richer broth, consider using beef neck bones or oxtail.

Tips and Variations:

• For a richer broth: Use beef with the bone in, such as beef shank or short ribs. The bones will add more flavor and body to the soup.

• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning accordingly. You may need to add more fish sauce or salt to your liking.

• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your Nilagang Baka. Cabbage, napa cabbage, and Taiwan bok choy are all great additions. Some people also like to add carrots and plantains.

• Use a pressure cooker: If you're short on time, you can use a pressure cooker to cook the beef. This will significantly reduce the cooking time.

• Make it spicy: For a spicier version of Nilagang Baka, add some chili peppers to the pot.

  
  

Serving Suggestions:

• Rice: Nilagang Baka is traditionally served with steamed white rice. You can serve the rice on the side or add it directly to the soup.

• Condiments: Filipinos often enjoy Nilagang Baka with condiments such as fish sauce, soy sauce, and calamansi (a type of Filipino lime). Saba bananas are a type of banana commonly used in Filipino cooking and can be added to the soup for a touch of sweetness.