Kare Kare is a beloved Filipino dish characterized by its rich, nutty sauce and a medley of flavors. Though traditionally made with oxtail, chicken kare kare has emerged as a popular alternative that offers equally satisfying results. This article will detail the step-by-step method to prepare this delightful dish, guiding you through its key elements and tips for achieving the perfect kare kare sauce.
What is Kare Kare?
Kare Kare is a traditional Filipino stew known for its rich, savory peanut sauce. Rooted in the Filipino culinary tradition, kare kare is often served during special occasions or family gatherings. While the classic recipe employs oxtail or beef shank, chicken is gaining acclaim for its tenderness and lighter flavor profile.
The dish is usually accompanied by bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) and serves as a fantastic introduction to Filipino cuisine for new diners. The combination of flavors and textures creates an irresistible and rich dining experience.
Ingredients for Chicken Kare Kare
To create an authentic chicken kare kare, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken, cut into pieces | 2 lbs |
| Peanut butter (preferably creamy) | 1 cup |
| Water | 4 cups |
| Eggplant, sliced | 2 medium-sized |
| String beans, cut into 2-inch lengths | 1 bunch |
| Banana heart (puso ng saging), sliced | 1 cup |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium-sized |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Rice flour | 2 tbsp |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
Special Note: You can find ingredients like banana heart and bagoong at your local Filipino or Asian grocery store.
The Essential Cooking Tools You Need
Before you begin cooking, gather the necessary tools that will streamline your cooking process:
- A large pot or Dutch oven
- A wooden spoon
- A cutting board and knife for chopping
- A ladle for serving
- A measuring cup and spoons
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Chicken Kare Kare
Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making chicken kare kare. We will break down the steps for better understanding.
Step 1: Sautéing the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sautéing until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Next, toss in the chopped onions and continue to sauté until translucent.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the pot, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes. Making sure the chicken is well-seared will deepen the flavor.
Step 3: Adding Water
Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the water and bring it to a gentle boil. This is the base for your stew and it will become the flavorful broth that contributes to the kare kare sauce.
Pro Tip:
For best results, let the chicken simmer for at least 30 minutes. This will make the meat tender and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Incorporating the Peanut Butter
After 30 minutes of simmering, it’s time to add the star of the dish—peanut butter. Stir in the creamy peanut butter gradually, mixing well until fully dissolved into the broth.
Step 5: Thickening the Sauce
To achieve the desired thickness of the sauce, dissolve the rice flour in a small bowl with a bit of water to create a slurry. Slowly pour this mixture into the pot while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. As you mix, the sauce will start to thicken.
Note: Adjust the thickness to your preference; you may need to add more water if it becomes too thick.
Step 6: Adding Vegetables
Add the sliced eggplant, string beans, and banana heart to your kare kare. All vegetables should be tender but not mushy, so simmer for approximately 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to evenly coat the veggies in the peanut sauce.
Step 7: Adjusting Seasoning
Once your vegetables are cooked to perfection, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or even a splash of bagoong for added depth.
Serving Your Chicken Kare Kare
To serve the chicken kare kare, ladle the stew into a large serving bowl. Traditionally, kare kare is served with a side of bagoong on the table, allowing diners to add the fermented shrimp paste according to their taste preference.
Pair with steaming rice, and enjoy a richly flavored meal that offers comfort and delight in every bite.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Kare Kare
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Selection of Chicken: Choose bone-in chicken pieces for more flavor. Thighs and drumsticks work well as they remain juicy during cooking.
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Quality of Peanut Butter: For the best results, use natural or high-quality creamy peanut butter. Avoid brands that are too sweet.
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Vegetable Choices: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Traditional kare kare may include other items like bok choy or asparagus.
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Bagoong: Always taste bagoong before adding it to your dish. Depending on the brand, it may be saltier, and you may want to adjust your salt accordingly.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken kare kare can be an inviting and rewarding experience. With its distinct peanut flavor and colorful vegetables, this dish is not only satisfying but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you are whipping it up for a festive occasion or a regular family dinner, the rich flavors are bound to impress.
So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy creating your very own chicken kare kare. Embrace the spirit of Filipino cuisine, and let this dish become a staple in your culinary journey!
What is Kare Kare?
Kare Kare is a traditional Filipino stew known for its rich and creamy peanut sauce. It typically features oxtail and vegetables, making it a hearty and flavorful dish. The dish’s distinct flavor comes from ground roasted peanuts, which provide creaminess and depth. Many families have their own variations, incorporating different proteins and vegetables.
In addition to oxtail, you might also find tripe or even chicken in some variations, making it a versatile dish. The combination of vegetables such as eggplant, banana heart, and string beans not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s texture. Served with a side of bagoong (fermented shrimp paste), Kare Kare is beloved for its comforting qualities and is often prepared for special occasions and family gatherings.
How do you make the peanut sauce for Kare Kare?
To create the signature peanut sauce for Kare Kare, you will need ground peanuts or peanut butter, along with a few key ingredients like water, achuete (annatto) oil for color, and sometimes rice flour for thickness. Start by sautéing garlic and onions in a bit of oil, then gradually mix in the ground peanuts or peanut butter. Incorporate water gradually to achieve the desired consistency while stirring to prevent clumping.
Once the mixture is well combined, add your choice of meat (traditionally oxtail) to the sauce, allowing it to simmer and absorb the flavors. For an authentic touch, some cooks add crushed roasted peanuts towards the end for added texture. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to taste, using traditional Filipino fish sauce or salt to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Can you use other meats instead of oxtail in Kare Kare?
Absolutely! While traditional Kare Kare typically uses oxtail, you can experiment with a variety of meats. Popular alternatives include beef shank, pork knuckles, chicken, or even seafood for a twist. Each type of meat will impart its unique flavor to the dish, allowing for personalized variations that cater to different tastes.
When using chicken or other meats, cooking times may vary, so be mindful to tweak your cooking as needed. For instance, chicken cooks faster than oxtail, so you may want to add it later in the process. Regardless of the meat you choose, the rich and creamy peanut sauce will still be the star of the show, providing a delicious base that ties everything together beautifully.
What vegetables do you typically put in Kare Kare?
Kare Kare is often accompanied by a variety of vegetables that complement the richness of the peanut sauce. Traditional choices include banana heart (puso ng saging), eggplant (talong), and string beans (sitaw). These veggies add not only nutritional value but also different textures and colors to the dish, making it visually appealing.
You can also introduce other vegetables based on your preferences, such as bok choy, cabbage, or even sweet potatoes. The key is to ensure that the vegetables are cooked just right—tender yet still crisp—so they hold their shape when served. Regardless of the specific vegetable choices, the combination creates a delightful medley that enhances the overall eating experience of Kare Kare.
What is the best way to serve Kare Kare?
Kare Kare is best served hot, directly from the pot, allowing guests to enjoy its warm and comforting flavors. Traditionally, it is presented in a large bowl with the peanut sauce generously coating the meat and vegetables. This communal style of serving invites everyone to dig in and enjoy together, highlighting the Filipino culture of sharing meals.
It’s also common to serve Kare Kare with a side of steamed rice to balance the richness of the dish. Accompanying it with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) is essential, as the salty and umami flavor of the bagoong complements the creamy peanut sauce beautifully. You can also offer extra condiments, like chili, to spice things up, catering to everyone’s taste preferences.
Can Kare Kare be made ahead of time?
Yes, Kare Kare can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prepping or serving at gatherings. In fact, the flavors often meld together beautifully after resting, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. To prepare in advance, simply follow the cooking instructions and allow the dish to cool before storing it in the refrigerator.
When reheating Kare Kare, be sure to do so gently on low heat to maintain the texture of the sauce and the cooked vegetables. If the sauce thickens, you can add a little water or broth to achieve the desired consistency. Just ensure to stir well and let it heat through before serving to enjoy its deliciousness as if it were freshly made.