Name: Nilagang Baka (Filipino Beef Stew)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef shank, cut into 2-inch pieces; 1 pound beef marrow bones; 8 cups water; 1 large yellow onion, quartered; 1 tablespoon black peppercorns; 2 tablespoons fish sauce, plus more to taste; 2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and quartered; 2 ears of corn, each cut into 3 pieces; 8 ounces green beans, trimmed; 1 small head of green cabbage, cut into wedges; Salt, to taste; Fish sauce or calamansi (optional, for serving)

Why You’ll Love Nilagang Baka (Filipino Beef Stew) Recipe

This classic Filipino stew is incredibly easy to make, with all ingredients simmering together in one pot for minimal hands‑on time. The broth is flavorful yet gentle, balancing savory beef, aromatic aromatics, and fresh vegetables. It’s also highly adaptable — you can swap or add vegetables based on preference or seasonality. Serve with steamed rice for a truly comforting experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

beef chuck stew meat, cubed
beef short ribs
baking soda
vegetable oil
white or yellow onion
garlic
green onions (white and green parts separated)
water
fish sauce
potatoes
carrot
green beans
green cabbage
kosher salt
ground black pepper
steamed rice (optional, for serving)
additional fish sauce (for serving)

Directions

Prepare the beef: Wash the beef pieces in cold water and pat dry. Place the stew meat and short ribs in a bowl and sprinkle with baking soda. Let sit for 30 minutes to help tenderize the meat, then rinse off the baking soda and pat dry.
Sauté aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Simmer the beef: Add the beef to the pot along with water to cover. Stir in the fish sauce. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook over medium heat until the beef is tender, about 2 hours.
Add vegetables: Stir in the potatoes and sliced carrots and continue cooking until they begin to soften, about 15–20 minutes. Add the green beans and cabbage and cook for another 10 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with the green parts of the scallions. Serve hot with steamed rice and extra fish sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep time: about 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
Cook time: approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Total time: around 3 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Broth boost: Substitute part of the water with beef stock for a deeper flavor.

Vegetable swaps: Use napa cabbage or bok choy instead of green cabbage, or add sweet potatoes in place of regular potatoes.

Pressure cooker option: Cook the beef in a pressure cooker for about 45 minutes for a quicker tender result, then simmer the vegetables separately before combining.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Cool leftovers and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 2–3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if the broth has thickened. You can also reheat in the microwave in a covered, microwave‑safe bowl.

FAQs

How is nilagang baka different from other Filipino stews?

Nilagang baka features a clear broth with simple aromatics and vegetables, whereas other Filipino stews like sinigang are sour and bulalo focuses on bone marrow richness.

What cut of beef is best for nilagang baka?

Beef chuck or stew meat works well for tenderness; short ribs can add extra flavor and richness.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the beef on low in a slow cooker for 6–8 hours and add vegetables in the last hour.

Is it necessary to marinate the beef with baking soda?

Marinating with baking soda helps tenderize the meat but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely — vegetables like corn on the cob, celery, or bell peppers can be added based on preference.

What should I serve with nilagang baka?

Steamed white rice is traditional; you can also serve with garlic fried rice or a side salad.

How salty should the broth be?

The broth should be lightly seasoned; you can adjust saltiness with fish sauce at the table.

Can I use a pressure cooker?

Yes, using a pressure cooker can significantly reduce the beef cooking time.

How do I store leftover broth?

Store leftover broth in a separate container or with the stew in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, this stew scales well for larger batches — just increase liquid and simmering time as needed.

Conclusion

Nilagang Baka is a timeless Filipino comfort dish that brings together tender beef and simple vegetables in a soothing broth. Its ease of preparation, versatility, and hearty flavors make it a go‑to recipe for family dinners year‑round. Enjoy it with steamed rice and savor the warmth and comfort of this classic stew.

Nilagang Baka (Filipino Beef Stew)