As a staple in Filipino cuisine, Beef Menudo is a hearty, tomato-based stew filled with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. Culinary experts developed this recipe, and it follows traditional Filipino cooking methods, ensuring an authentic and flavorful dish.
With over decades of Filipino families enjoying this recipe, it remains a favorite for everyday meals and celebrations. We craft this guide using high-quality ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert cooking techniques to give you the best results.
What is Beef Menudo?
People often serve Menudo, a popular Filipino dish, at birthdays, fiestas, and Sunday family lunches. Unlike the Mexican menudo (a tripe-based soup), Filipino Menudo is a savory, slow-cooked beef stew enriched with tomatoes and vegetables, often enjoyed with steaming white rice.
Beef Menudo
Equipment
- Chopping board – for dicing vegetables and beef
- Knife – for precise cutting
- Large pan or pot – for cooking the stew
- Wooden spoon – for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g beef, cubed (chuck or brisket)
- 2 tbsp oil vegetable or canola
- 1 onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 medium tomatoes diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 medium carrot diced
- 1 medium potato diced
- 1/2 cup green peas
- 1/2 red bell pepper sliced
- 1/2 green bell pepper sliced
- 1/2 cup liver cubed (optional)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce patis
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar optional
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes and cook until soft.
- Brown the Beef: Add the beef cubes and cook until browned. Pour in soy sauce and fish sauce. Stir well.
- Simmer the Stew: Add tomato sauce, beef broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 45–60 minutes until beef is tender.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in potatoes, carrots, and liver (if using). Cook for 10 minutes.
- Final Touches: Stir in bell peppers, green peas, sugar (if using), and black pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove bay leaf and serve hot with steamed rice.
Expert Tips for the Best Beef Menudo
Use the right cut of beef – Chuck or brisket becomes tender when slow-cooked.
Don’t skip the liver – It adds depth and authentic flavor.
Simmer on low heat – This enhances the stew’s rich and thick texture.
Customize your veggies – Add raisins for sweetness or chickpeas for extra texture.
Health Benefits of Beef Menudo
They pack Beef Menudo with protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients.
🥩 Beef – Rich in iron and protein for muscle health
🥕 Carrots & Bell Peppers – High in vitamin A and antioxidants
🍅 Tomatoes – Excellent source of lycopene, which supports heart health
FAQs About Beef Menudo
Yes! Chefs make Traditional Filipino Menudo with pork, but they also use beef as an equally delicious alternative.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
Absolutely! Pressure cook for 30 minutes instead of slow simmering.
Final Thoughts
Beef Menudo is a classic Filipino dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you cook for a special occasion or a regular weeknight dinner, this rich, flavorful stew will satisfy.
Try this recipe and let us know how it turned out! Tag us on social media with #BeefMenudoRecipe
