Kare-Kare is a dish that showcases the elegance and complexity of Filipino cooking. At ChowKeni, we prepare
our Kare-Kare using traditional methods that have been refined over generations. We start with premium oxtail,
which is the traditional and most prized cut for this dish. The oxtail is slowly braised for several hours
until the meat becomes so tender it literally falls off the bone. This slow cooking process also creates a
rich, gelatinous broth that adds body and depth to the final sauce.
The signature element of Kare-Kare is its thick, creamy peanut sauce. We make ours from scratch using roasted
peanuts that are ground into a paste, combined with the oxtail broth, and enriched with toasted rice flour for
body and a subtle nutty flavor. The sauce is seasoned simply to let the natural flavors shine through. The dish
is completed with fresh vegetables – tender Japanese eggplant and crisp bok choy – which are added just before
serving to maintain their texture. The key to enjoying Kare-Kare is the bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) served
on the side. A small spoonful mixed into the sauce provides a salty, funky contrast that elevates the entire
dish. Served with steamed rice, this is comfort food that's both sophisticated and deeply satisfying.
Perfect Pairings
Kare-Kare is best enjoyed with plenty of steamed white rice to soak up the rich peanut sauce. The bagoong
(shrimp paste) is essential – mix a small amount into each bite for the authentic experience. This dish pairs
well with lighter Filipino dishes like our Pancit or a fresh vegetable salad. Many Filipinos also enjoy it
with puto (steamed rice cakes) for a traditional combination!
