How To Make Pork Caldereta Like A Pro – Simple Tips And Tricks For A Mouthwatering Dish!

Indulge in the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine with this mouthwatering pork caldereta recipe. This hearty stew combines tender pork, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup green peas
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions:

#1. Brown the Pork:

• Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Season the pork with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides for 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.

#2. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In the same pot, add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
• Add the bell pepper and carrot and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

#3. Add the Tomato Base:

• Stir in the tomato puree and tomato sauce. Cook for 1 minute, or until the mixture is fragrant.

#4. Deglaze with Liquids:

• Add the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and oregano to the pot.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.

#5. Return the Pork:

• Add the browned pork back to the pot and stir to combine.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the pork is tender.

#6. Add the Peas and Cilantro:

• Stir in the green peas and cilantro. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the peas are heated through.

#7. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve the pork caldereta hot with rice or crusty bread. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use a combination of pork shoulder and pork belly.
• If you don’t have tomato puree, you can use crushed tomatoes instead.
• To make the stew spicier, add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes.
• Serve the pork caldereta with a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.

Variations:

• Add other vegetables to the stew, such as potatoes, green beans, or corn.
• Use chicken or beef instead of pork for a different flavor profile.
• Stir in a cup of coconut milk for a creamy twist.

Health Benefits of Pork Caldereta:

• Pork is a good source of protein, iron, and zinc.
• Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
• Bell peppers provide vitamin A and vitamin C.
• Carrots are a good source of vitamin A and potassium.

FAQ:

1. How long does pork caldereta last in the refrigerator?

• Pork caldereta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Can I freeze pork caldereta?

• Yes, you can freeze pork caldereta for up to 2 months.

3. What is a good substitute for Worcestershire sauce in pork caldereta?

• You can substitute fish sauce or soy sauce for Worcestershire sauce.