Nilagang Baka
Nilagang Baka
Contents
Nilagang Baka is a classic Filipino boiled beef soup known for its tender beef pieces, clear savory broth, and hearty vegetables like potatoes, cabbage, and corn. It’s a comforting dish often served with rice and a side of patis (fish sauce) and calamansi for added flavor.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef shank or sirloin, cubed
- 6 cups water
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 large white onion, halved
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 pieces star anise (optional)
- 4 medium potatoes, quartered
- 2 ears of corn, cut into thirds
- 1 small cabbage, chopped
- 2 bunches baby bok choy or pechay
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine water, beef broth, beef cubes, onion, celery, and star anise. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 60-90 minutes until the beef is tender. Add more water if needed.
- Add potatoes and corn to the pot. Cook for another 10 minutes until tender.
- Stir in cabbage and bok choy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for 2-5 minutes to soften the greens.
- Serve hot with steamed rice and a side of patis and calamansi.
Tips and Notes
- Beef Cut: Use beef shank for a richer broth or sirloin for quicker cooking.
- Vegetables: Add Saba bananas for a traditional touch or substitute with green plantains.
- Pressure Cooker: Reduce cooking time by using a pressure cooker for the beef.
- Broth: For a deeper flavor, simmer beef bones separately and use the resulting broth.
FAQ
What is the best cut of beef for Nilagang Baka?
Beef shank is ideal for its rich flavor and gelatinous texture, but sirloin or short ribs also work well.
Can I make Nilagang Baka vegetarian?
Yes, replace beef with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
What vegetables can I add?
Common additions include Saba bananas, green beans, and carrots for extra variety.
Is Nilagang Baka the same as Bulalo?
Similar, but Bulalo focuses on bone marrow, while Nilagang Baka emphasizes tender beef and vegetables.
Related guides
- Beef Broccoli: A Filipino-Inspired Stir-Fry
- The Complete Guide to Beef Caldereta (Kalderetang Baka)
- Beef Giniling: A Classic Filipino Ground Beef Recipe
- Beef Mechado: A Classic Filipino Tomato-Based Beef Stew Recipe