Classic Filipino Beef Mechado

Serve this Classic Filipino Beef Mechado with steamed rice for a comforting meal.

Looking for a comforting beef stew recipe that brings warmth and hearty flavors to your table? This Classic Filipino Beef Mechado is a flavorful dish made with tender beef chunks, potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers in a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s a perfect dish for your family dinner or cozy weekend meals.

If you enjoy hearty dishes like this, you’ll love our Easy Coconut Blender Cake and Classic Beef Pot Roast on tinsuf.com, which are perfect additions to your collection of comforting meals.

This recipe is similar to other Filipino favorites like beef caldereta and afritada, making it a must-try if you enjoy easy one-pot meals with bold flavors and tender meat that falls apart with each bite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

  • 1 kilogram beef chunks (chuck or brisket works well)

  • ⅓ cup soy sauce

  • Juice from ½ lemon

  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

  • 5 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 medium onion, sliced

  • 2 carrots, cut into chunks

  • 2 medium potatoes, cut into chunks

  • 1 large green bell pepper, sliced

  • 180g tomato sauce

  • 1 beef broth cube

  • 4 pcs bay leaves

  • 1-2 Thai chilies (optional, for heat)

  • Cooking oil

  • Water as needed

Instructions

 Marinate the Beef

In a large bowl, combine beef chunks, soy sauce, lemon juice, and ground black pepper. Mix well to coat the beef evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors soak in.

 Sauté the Aromatics

Heat cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.

 Brown the Beef

Add the marinated beef into the pot, reserving the marinade. Sauté the beef for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned on all sides.

 Add Marinade and Bay Leaves

Pour in the reserved marinade and add the bay leaves. Stir to combine, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

 Add Tomato Sauce and Simmer

Pour in the tomato sauce, stir to combine, then add 2 cups of water along with the beef broth cube and Thai chilies if using. Stir well, cover, and let it simmer for 40 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender. Add more water as needed to maintain the sauce consistency.