Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 kg beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- Salt to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with lid
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the cooking oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides.
4. Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, bay leaves, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Add the tomatoes, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and pineapple chunks. Stir to combine.
7. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked but still crisp.
8. Season with salt to taste.
9. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for sautéing, high heat for boiling, low heat for simmering
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 1500mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork or chicken can be used instead of beef.
- Canned pineapple chunks can be used instead of fresh pineapple.
- Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used instead of beef broth.
Variations:
- Add potatoes or carrots for a heartier meal.
- Use different types of bell peppers for a colorful dish.
- Add hot sauce or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Brown the beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
- Use a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even cooking.
- Simmer the beef for a longer time for a more tender result.
Storage instructions:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Mechado with Pineapple in a large serving dish with steamed rice on the side.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or sliced green onions for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Suggested side dishes:
Steamed rice, garlic fried rice, or mashed potatoes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the beef is tough, simmer for a longer time until tender.
- If the sauce is too salty, add more water or broth to dilute it.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F to prevent foodborne illness.
- Store leftovers promptly in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
Mechado is a Filipino beef stew dish that was influenced by Spanish cuisine during the colonial period.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, tangy, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot with steamed rice and a side of vegetables.
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Region: Philippine