Go Back
Classic Filipino Beef Mechado with tender beef chunks and potatoes in a rich tomato sauce served in a white bowl.

Classic Filipino Beef Mechado

Summary: Classic Filipino Beef Mechado is a hearty Filipino stew made with tender beef chunks, potatoes, and carrots simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce with soy, garlic, and spices. Perfect for comforting family dinners and meal prep.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients:
  • 1 kilogram beef chunks chuck or brisket
  • ⅓ cup soy sauce
  • Juice from ½ lemon
  • 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
  • 180 g tomato sauce
  • 1 beef broth cube
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 1-2 Thai chilies optional
  • Cooking oil
  • Water as needed

Method
 

  1. Instructions:
  2. In a bowl, combine beef chunks, soy sauce, lemon juice, and ground black pepper. Mix well and marinate for at least 1 hour.
  3. In a large pot, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
  4. Add marinated beef (reserve marinade) and sauté for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned.
  5. Add reserved marinade and bay leaves. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Add tomato sauce, stir, then pour in 2 cups of water, beef broth cube, and Thai chilies if using. Cover and simmer for 40 minutes to 1 hour until beef is tender, adding water as needed.
  7. Add carrots and potatoes, cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
  8. Add bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens.
  9. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Notes

Notes:
You can use pork shoulder for a pork mechado variation.
Adjust Thai chilies or omit for a milder version.
Add green peas for extra color and texture.
This dish tastes even better the next day.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving):
Calories: 400
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 15g