Ginataang Baka (Beef in Coconut Milk) Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb beef, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2-3 Thai chili peppers (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed: None

Step-by-step instructions:
a. In a large pot or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
b. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
c. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides.
d. Pour in the coconut milk and fish sauce. Stir to combine.
e. Add the Thai chili peppers (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
f. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beef is tender.
g. Serve hot with steamed rice.

15 minutes preparation time, 40 minutes cooking time
5. Temperature: Medium-high heat for sautéing, low heat for simmering
Serving size: 4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 22g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Beef can be substituted with chicken, pork, or shrimp
- Fish sauce can be substituted with soy sauce or salt
- Thai chili peppers can be omitted or substituted with red pepper flakes

Variations:
- Add vegetables such as eggplant, squash, or green beans for a more nutritious meal
- Use curry powder or turmeric for a different flavor profile
- Add peanut butter for a creamier texture

Tips and tricks:
- Use a fatty cut of beef for a more flavorful dish
- Brown the beef well before adding the coconut milk for a richer taste
- Adjust the amount of Thai chili peppers according to your desired level of spiciness

Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through

Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a large bowl with steamed rice on the side
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions

Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro or green onions

Pairings:
- Steamed rice
- Garlic fried rice
- Naan bread

Suggested side dishes:
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Mango salad
- Papaya salad

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the coconut milk separates, simply stir it back together

Food safety advice:
- Make sure the beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F to prevent foodborne illness

Food history:
- Ginataang baka is a traditional Filipino dish that is typically made with beef or chicken cooked in coconut milk and spices

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, savory, slightly sweet, with a hint of spiciness

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables

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Region: Philippine

Taste: Savory, Creamy, Coconutty, Spicy, Tangy