Crispy Kare-Kare is a delightful twist on the traditional Filipino oxtail stew, featuring a rich peanut sauce and crispy elements that add texture and flavor. This dish is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
The recipe combines tender oxtail, a variety of vegetables, and a savory peanut sauce, topped with crispy fried elements for added crunch.
Understanding Crispy Kare-Kare
Crispy Kare-Kare is a delightful variation of the classic Filipino dish, known for its rich flavors and unique textures. This version features tender oxtail, which is simmered to perfection, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
The dish is enveloped in a creamy peanut sauce that adds depth and richness, making each bite a satisfying experience. The combination of oxtail and peanut sauce is a hallmark of Filipino cuisine, celebrated for its heartiness and comforting nature.
Key Ingredients
The main star of Crispy Kare-Kare is undoubtedly the oxtail. This cut of meat is favored for its flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly. Alongside the oxtail, a variety of vegetables such as eggplant, banana hearts, and string beans contribute vibrant colors and nutrients.
Peanut butter and ground peanuts form the base of the sauce, providing that signature nutty flavor. To enhance the dish, crispy fried shallots are used as a garnish, adding a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Cooking Process
The preparation of Crispy Kare-Kare involves several steps, each contributing to the overall flavor profile. First, the oxtail is simmered with aromatics like onion and garlic, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.
Once the oxtail is cooked, the broth is strained, and peanut butter is stirred in to create the sauce. This step is crucial as it ensures a smooth and creamy consistency. The vegetables are then added, simmering until they are perfectly tender.
Frying for Texture
A unique aspect of this dish is the frying of the oxtail pieces after they have been cooked. This step transforms the tender meat into crispy morsels, adding a delightful texture that elevates the dish.
Frying not only enhances the flavor but also provides a contrast to the creamy peanut sauce, making each bite exciting. The crispy oxtail is then arranged on top of the vegetables and sauce, creating an appealing presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy Kare-Kare is traditionally served in a Filipino bowl, showcasing its vibrant colors and textures. It is often accompanied by bagoong, a fermented shrimp paste that adds a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall experience.
For a complete meal, serve it with steamed rice, allowing diners to enjoy the rich sauce and tender meat with every bite. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a favorite for special occasions and family gatherings.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
This dish not only pleases the palate but also provides a balanced meal with protein from the oxtail and nutrients from the vegetables. Each serving offers a satisfying amount of calories, making it a hearty option for any meal.
Whether enjoyed during a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, Crispy Kare-Kare is sure to impress with its rich flavors and delightful textures. Embrace this Filipino classic and savor the experience it brings to the table.
Delicious Crispy Kare-Kare

This Crispy Kare-Kare features tender oxtail simmered until soft, served with a thick peanut sauce and an assortment of vegetables like eggplant and banana hearts. The dish is complemented by crispy fried toppings, making it a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs oxtail, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup ground peanuts
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 large eggplant, sliced
- 1 cup banana hearts, sliced
- 1 cup string beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup crispy fried shallots or garlic for topping
- Salt to taste
- Cooking oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Oxtail: In a large pot, combine the oxtail, beef broth, onion, garlic, fish sauce, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the oxtail is tender (about 2-3 hours).
- Make the Peanut Sauce: Once the oxtail is tender, remove it from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth and return it to the pot. Stir in the peanut butter and ground peanuts, mixing until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the sliced eggplant, banana hearts, and string beans to the peanut sauce. Simmer until the vegetables are tender.
- Fry the Oxtail: In a separate pan, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the cooked oxtail pieces until crispy and golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: In a serving dish, arrange the vegetables and peanut sauce, topped with the crispy oxtail. Garnish with crispy fried shallots or garlic.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
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