Quick and Tasty Simple Beef Mechado You Can Cook at Home

Beef Mechado is a classic Filipino dish known for its rich, savory tomato-based sauce and tender beef that melts in your mouth. This hearty stew is packed with flavors from garlic, onions, and bell peppers, combined with the deep umami taste of soy sauce and tomato sauce.

Traditionally a slow-cooked dish, this version is made simpler and lighter while keeping all the deliciousness intact. Perfect for meal prepping or a comforting family dinner, this beef mechado is a satisfying dish you can enjoy any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simplified for Easy Cooking – No complicated steps, just straightforward cooking.
Rich & Flavorful – Slow-simmered beef in a tomato-based sauce with deep, savory notes.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Balanced & Wholesome – A well-rounded dish with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
Pairs Well with Rice or Cauliflower Rice – Versatile and satisfying for any diet preference.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef chuck, cut into cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (for a richer sauce)
• 1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp vinegar or calamansi juice
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1 medium carrot, sliced
• ½ red bell pepper, sliced
• ½ green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added depth of flavor)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Sear the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. This helps lock in flavor. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, add onions and sauté until soft.
2. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.

Build the Sauce

1. Add tomato paste and stir to combine with onions and garlic. Cook for 1 minute.
2. Pour in tomato sauce, beef broth, soy sauce, and vinegar or calamansi juice. Stir well.

Simmer Until Tender

1. Return the seared beef to the pot and add the bay leaf.
2. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally and add a bit more broth if needed.

Add Vegetables

1. Once the beef is tender, add potatoes and carrots. Cook for 10 minutes.
2. Stir in red and green bell peppers, and let simmer for another 5 minutes.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, or additional soy sauce as needed.

Serve & Enjoy

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy the beef mechado over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)

Calories: 260 | Protein: 28g | Carbs: 18g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

• Use Lean Beef: Opt for lean cuts like sirloin or top round for a lighter version.
• Slow Cook for Maximum Tenderness: If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-7 hours.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add green beans or zucchini for extra fiber and nutrition.
• Make it Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
• Adjust the Tanginess: Add more or less vinegar/calamsi juice depending on your taste preference.

Why This Recipe Works

• Healthier Yet Flavorful: This recipe cuts down on oil and sodium without sacrificing taste.
• Perfectly Balanced: A good mix of protein, healthy carbs, and fiber for a satisfying meal.
• Easy to Make in One Pot: Less mess, more flavor in every bite.
• Versatile: Serve it with rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own as a hearty stew.

This Simple Beef Mechado is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings a taste of home to your table. With its rich tomato-based sauce, tender beef, and hearty vegetables, it’s a meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Enjoy every bite, and feel free to experiment with additional vegetables or spices to make it your own!