Why Make This Recipe
Balbacua is a rich and flavorful dish that comes from the Philippines. It’s a comfort food that many people enjoy, especially during special occasions or family gatherings. The combination of tender oxtail and beef skin, along with the unique taste of peanut butter and banana blossom, makes it a dish worth trying. It’s not just filling; it’s also packed with flavor that brings everyone to the table.
How to Make Balbacua
Ingredients:
- 1 kg oxtail, cut into pieces
- 500g beef skin, cleaned and pre-boiled
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 60ml soy sauce
- 30ml vinegar
- 1 liter water
- 100g peanut butter
- 1 banana blossom, chopped
- 3 star anise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large pot, combine the oxtail, beef skin, onion, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 3 to 4 hours until the meat is very tender.
- After the meat is tender, add the peanut butter, banana blossom, and star anise to the pot.
- Cook for another 30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with steamed rice to enjoy the full flavor.
How to Serve Balbacua
Balbacua is best served hot. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, which helps soak up the delicious broth. You can also serve it with a side of pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
How to Store Balbacua
If you have leftovers, let the Balbacua cool down before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving again.
Tips to Make Balbacua
- For extra richness, you can add a bit of coconut milk.
- Make sure the oxtail is cooked until it’s very tender; this makes the dish more enjoyable.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the garlic and onion.
Variation
If you want to try a different flavor, you can add some chili peppers for a spicy kick. Another option is to include vegetables like carrots or potatoes for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other cuts of meat instead of oxtail?
A: Yes, you can substitute oxtail with other tender cuts of beef such as shank or brisket, but the cooking time may vary.
Q: What if I can’t find banana blossom?
A: If banana blossom is not available, you can skip it or use other vegetables like eggplant or zucchini as a substitute.
Q: Can I make Balbacua in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! You can combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook it on low for 6-8 hours until the meat is tender.