Unlock the Flavors of the Philippines: Pork Caldereta Pinoy Style for the Savory Soul

Pork caldereta, a beloved Filipino dish, is a savory stew that combines tender pork, vibrant vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This culinary masterpiece is a testament to the vibrant flavors of Philippine cuisine. In this blog post, we will embark on a culinary journey, providing a detailed guide on how to cook pork caldereta pinoy style, ensuring you recreate this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Pork:

• 1 kg pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Caldereta Sauce:

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup liver spread
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 cup potato cubes

Instructions

1. Marinate the Pork

In a large bowl, combine the pork cubes, soy sauce, vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Brown the Pork

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the marinated pork and cook until browned on all sides.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Once the pork is browned, remove it from the pot and set aside. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened. Add the green and red bell peppers and cook until they start to soften.

4. Add the Tomato

Add the chopped tomato to the pot and cook for a few minutes, or until it starts to break down.

5. Make the Caldereta Sauce

Add the beef broth, tomato sauce, liver spread, fish sauce, paprika, cumin, chili powder (if desired), and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

6. Return the Pork

Add the browned pork back to the pot and stir well. Let simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened.

7. Add the Potatoes

Add the potato cubes to the pot and cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Finishing Touches

• Season the caldereta with additional salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve hot with steamed rice.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions.

Tips for the Perfect Pork Caldereta

• Use high-quality pork for the best flavor.
• Marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes to tenderize it.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables. They should still have some crunch to them.
• If you don’t have liver spread, you can use tomato paste instead.
• Serve the caldereta with a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.

Variations

• Seafood Caldereta: Add shrimp, mussels, or fish to the stew for a seafood twist.
• Vegetarian Caldereta: Replace the pork with tofu or vegetables such as carrots, celery, and peas.
• Spicy Caldereta: Add more chili powder or chopped chili peppers to the sauce for a spicy kick.

The Joy of Filipino Cuisine

Pork caldereta is just one example of the vibrant and flavorful dishes that make up Filipino cuisine. This dish embodies the Filipino love for hearty stews, bold flavors, and family gatherings around the dinner table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, we encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of cooking and sharing Filipino food.

What You Need to Know

1. What is the best cut of pork to use for caldereta?

• Pork shoulder or pork belly are the best cuts for caldereta, as they have a good amount of fat that adds flavor and tenderness.

2. Can I use other vegetables in my caldereta?

• Yes, you can add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, peas, or corn to your caldereta.

3. How do I store leftover caldereta?

• Leftover caldereta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.