Balbacua Recipe

Introduction

Balbacua Recipe

Introducing a traditional Filipino dish that will tantalize your taste buds - Balbacua! This hearty recipe features tender beef shanks, simmered in a flavorful blend of spices until it's melt-in-your-mouth perfection. With its rich and comforting flavors, Balbacua is the ultimate comfort food that is perfect for any occasion.

Recipe

Balbacua Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef shanks or beef bone marrow, cut into serving pieces
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons annatto seeds (achuete)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 piece bay leaf
• 4 pieces banana blossoms, soaked in water and sliced
• 1 bunch pechay or bok choy, chopped
• 4 pieces banana heart, rinsed and sliced
• 4 pieces eggplants, sliced
• Fish sauce (optional)

Preparation:

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onions until fragrant.
2. Add the beef shanks and cook until browned on all sides.
3. In a separate pan, heat the annatto seeds and combine with a cup of water. Strain the liquid and set aside.
4. Add the annatto liquid, salt, pepper, peanut butter, beef broth, water, soy sauce, sugar, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 2-3 hours until the beef is tender.
5. Add the banana blossoms, pechay or bok choy, banana heart, and eggplants to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are cooked.
6. Season with fish sauce if desired.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Balbacua is a delicious and hearty Filipino beef stew that is sure to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. With its tender beef shanks and rich flavors from the spices and peanut butter, this dish is a definite crowd-pleaser. So grab a bowl, serve it over steamed rice, and indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of Balbacua. It's a culinary experience you won't want to miss!