Authentic Filipino Beef Caldereta (Kalderetang Baka)

Beef Caldereta (or Kalderetang Baka) is a rich and hearty Filipino stew made with tender beef, tomato sauce, liver spread, and vegetables. This comfort food favorite is often served at family gatherings and special occasions, known for its bold, savory flavor and melt-in-your-mouth beef.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into chunks
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup liver spread (or mashed canned liver pâté)
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (optional but traditional)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 1 large carrot, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 1–2 Thai chili peppers (optional, for spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green olives (optional garnish)

Directions

1. Brown the beef:
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add oil. Sear beef until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics:
4. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
5. Simmer beef:
6. Return the beef to the pot. Add soy sauce, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Cover and simmer over low heat for about 1 hour or until beef is tender. Add more broth or water if needed.
7. Add liver spread & cheese:
8. Stir in liver spread and grated cheese. Simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes richer.
9. Add vegetables:
10. Add potatoes, carrots, and chili peppers (if using). Cook until vegetables are soft (around 10–15 minutes).
11. Finish with bell peppers:
12. Add sliced bell peppers. Cook for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
13. Serve:
14. Garnish with green olives if desired. Serve hot with steamed white rice.