"Ultimate Pork Kare Kare Recipe: A Delicious Filipino Oxtail Stew with a Twist"

#### Introduction to Pork Kare Kare RecipePork Kare Kare Recipe, a traditional Filipino dish, is a rich and savory stew that typically features oxtail, but……

#### Introduction to Pork Kare Kare Recipe

Pork Kare Kare Recipe, a traditional Filipino dish, is a rich and savory stew that typically features oxtail, but can be wonderfully adapted to include pork. This delectable dish is known for its thick, peanut-based sauce and is often served with a side of shrimp paste (bagoong) for an extra flavor kick. In this guide, we will explore the ultimate Pork Kare Kare Recipe, providing you with step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to make this dish your own.

#### Ingredients for Pork Kare Kare Recipe

To create the perfect Pork Kare Kare, you'll need the following ingredients:

- 2 pounds pork belly or pork shank, cut into chunks

- 1 cup of peanut butter (smooth or chunky, based on preference)

- 1/2 cup of ground peanuts (optional for added texture)

- 1 large onion, chopped

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 large eggplant, sliced

- 1 bunch of bok choy or banana heart, cut into pieces

- 4 cups of beef or chicken broth

- 2 tablespoons of fish sauce

- 1 tablespoon of annatto oil (for color)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Shrimp paste (bagoong) for serving

#### Step-by-Step Instructions for Pork Kare Kare Recipe

1. **Prepare the Pork**: In a large pot, combine the pork chunks and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the pork is tender. Skim off any scum that rises to the surface. Once cooked, drain the pork and set aside.

2. **Sauté Aromatics**: In the same pot, heat a little oil and sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. This step infuses the base of the dish with flavor.

3. **Add the Pork**: Return the cooked pork to the pot and add the fish sauce. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld for about 5 minutes.

4. **Incorporate Broth and Peanut Butter**: Pour in the beef or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the peanut butter, ensuring it dissolves completely into the broth. For a richer texture, add ground peanuts at this stage.

5. **Cook the Vegetables**: Once the sauce has thickened, add the sliced eggplant and cook for about 5 minutes. Then, add the bok choy or banana heart and simmer until the vegetables are just tender, about another 5 minutes.

6. **Final Seasoning**: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a more vibrant color, drizzle in the annatto oil and mix well.

7. **Serve**: Ladle the Pork Kare Kare into bowls and serve hot with steamed rice and a side of shrimp paste for that authentic Filipino flavor.

#### Tips for the Perfect Pork Kare Kare Recipe

- **Choosing the Meat**: While pork belly is a popular choice, you can also use pork shank or a combination of both for added texture and flavor.

- **Peanut Butter Options**: Experiment with different brands of peanut butter to find the flavor that suits your palate best. Natural peanut butter can offer a different taste profile.

- **Vegetable Variations**: Feel free to add other vegetables like string beans or even potatoes to suit your taste.

- **Serving Suggestions**: Pork Kare Kare is best enjoyed with a side of steamed rice and a generous scoop of shrimp paste, which provides a salty contrast to the rich, creamy sauce.

#### Conclusion

The Pork Kare Kare Recipe is a beloved dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. With its creamy peanut sauce and tender pork, this stew is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or a comforting family meal, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delightful flavors that come together in this ultimate Pork Kare Kare!