Beef Mechado (beef casserole)

To complete the line up of Philippines “tomato casserole”, I’ll bring you Beef Mechado………This dish is the relative of Beef kaldereta(his brother), Pork Menudo (cousins), Chicken Afritada (might be nephews) and fish bacalao…I use the word “relatives” because it’s almost have the same ingredients and just have differences on the meat we’ve used. A popular dish in northern provinces especially in “fiesta” or feast of baranggays (small towns)…………………Did you know that in order to make this great recipe, you need to have lots of fresh tomatoes. Tomatoes are excellent source of lycopene. and lycopene may help prevent cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and osteoporosis. Lycopene has even been found to have an inhibitory effect on cataract development and some rare cancer cells. Lycopene benefits are wide and varied and although some claim anti-ageing effects, many claims are unproven. It is wise though to include this your balanced diet…………

Ingredients: serves 4-6 persons

• 1.5 kl of Beef meat and bones
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 2 pcs potatoes (big diced)
• 1 pc carrots (big diced)
• 1 pc capsicum (big diced)
• 4 pcs tomato quartered
• 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
• 1 med onions (sliced)
• 2 cups water
• 3 pcs bay leaf
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• salt & pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fish sauce(patis)
• chillies optional

Procedures:

• in a large sauce pan, place all ingredients except carrots & potatoes. bring to a boil using low heat for 45 minutes. (stirring every 5 minutes)
• when beef is half tender, pour in potatoes & carrots, chillies.
• Enjoy!!!

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