Kare Kare is a beloved Filipino stew known for its rich peanut sauce and tender meat. Traditionally cooked on the stove for hours, this dish takes on a whole new level of convenience and flavor when made in a slow cooker. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while giving us more time to enjoy the day.
Ingredients
To create the perfect slow cooker Kare Kare, using the right combination of meat, vegetables, and sauce ingredients is essential. Here’s everything we need to gather before starting our flavorful journey.
Meat and Vegetables
For an authentic and tender Kare Kare, we focus on meats that become melt-in-your-mouth soft over low and slow cooking, paired with fresh, crunchy vegetables for texture contrast.
- Oxtail – 2 pounds, trimmed and cleaned
- Beef shank – 1 pound, cut into chunks
- Pork hock (optional) – 1 pound
- Banana blossoms – 1 cup, sliced
- Eggplants – 2 medium, cut into thick slices
- String beans – 1 cup, cut into 2-inch lengths
- Pechay (bok choy) – 1 small bunch, separated into leaves
Sauce Ingredients
The hallmark of Kare Kare is its rich and creamy peanut sauce that brings all elements together in a harmonious blend.
- Raw peanut butter – 3/4 cup (smooth, unsweetened)
- Ground roasted peanuts – 1/4 cup (for extra texture)
- Annatto seeds – 1 tablespoon, soaked in 1/4 cup hot water (for color)
- Shrimp paste (bagoong) – 2 tablespoons (to serve, not in sauce)
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
- Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
- Rice flour – 3 tablespoons (for thickening)
- Water or beef broth – 4 cups
Seasonings and Garnishes
To elevate the flavor, we add precise seasonings and garnishes that balance the peanut sauce’s earthiness with savory undertones.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Basic seasoning |
| Ground black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds mild heat and depth |
| Fish sauce | 1 tablespoon | Enhances umami |
| Palm sugar | 1 teaspoon | Balances saltiness with mild sweetness |
| Calamansi or lemon | 1-2 pieces, juiced | Optional, adds bright acidity |
With these ingredients in hand, we set the stage for a slow cooker Kare Kare that bursts with robust flavors and tender textures, making the process effortless while delivering tradition on a plate.
Equipment Needed
To create authentic and delicious Kare Kare Recipe Slow Cooker style, having the right equipment is crucial. Here’s what we need to make the process smooth and efficient.
Slow Cooker
Using a Slow Cooker is essential for developing the rich flavors and tender textures that define Kare Kare. We recommend:
- A 6 to 7-quart slow cooker to accommodate all ingredients comfortably.
- A model with multiple heat settings (low, high, warm) to control cooking times accurately.
- A lid that seals tightly to retain moisture and prevent evaporation during cooking.
| Feature | Recommended Specification |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 6 to 7 quarts |
| Heat Settings | Low, High, Warm |
| Lid Type | Tight sealing, preferably glass |
| Programmable Timer | Optional but helpful for set-and-forget |
Additional Cooking Tools
To complement our slow cooker and perfect the Kare Kare, we’ll also need:
- Large skillet or frying pan: For browning the meat and sautéing the aromatics before slow cooking.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: To stir ingredients gently without scratching cookware.
- Cutting board and sharp knives: For preparing vegetables like banana blossoms, eggplants, and string beans with precision.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure exact quantities, especially for the peanut butter and seasonings.
- Blender or food processor (optional): To puree or grind peanuts if we want a smoother peanut sauce texture.
- Strainer or colander: For washing and draining vegetables.
Equipping ourselves with these tools will help us maintain the traditional taste while enjoying the ease of slow cooker convenience.
Prep Work
Before we start slow cooking our Kare Kare, proper preparation is essential to ensure the flavors meld beautifully and the textures turn out just right. Let’s break down the prep into manageable steps.
Preparing the Meat
We select the best cuts for an authentic Kare Kare — usually oxtail and beef shank. Here’s how we prep them:
- Trim excess fat from the oxtail and beef shank to avoid a greasy stew.
- Cut the meat into 2-3 inch pieces for even cooking and tenderness.
- Rinse thoroughly under cold running water to remove impurities.
- Brown the meat in a hot skillet with a bit of oil until golden on all sides — this step locks in juices and builds flavor before slow cooking.
| Meat Cut | Prep Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Oxtail | Trim fat, cut pieces | Tenderness, reduce greasiness |
| Beef shank | Trim fat, cut pieces | Even cooking, consistent texture |
| Both | Brown in skillet | Enhance flavor |
Preparing the Vegetables
Next, we prepare the vegetables that enrich the Kare Kare’s signature character:
- Banana blossoms: Remove outer layers, slice thinly, then soak in water with a splash of vinegar or salt to reduce bitterness.
- Eggplants: Slice into thick rounds, then soak in salted water to prevent browning.
- String beans: Trim ends and cut into 2-inch pieces.
- Other veggies like bok choy or pechay are washed and set aside whole or halved.
Cleaning and soaking vegetables ensures a balanced, fresh flavor profile and vibrant color after slow cooking.
Making the Peanut Sauce
The rich peanut sauce is the heart of our slow cooker Kare Kare. Preparing it beforehand lets it integrate smoothly while cooking:
- Combine raw peanut butter and ground roasted peanuts for a creamy and textured sauce base.
- Mix in annatto seeds soaked in oil for that iconic golden color.
- Season with fish sauce, salt, and black pepper carefully, keeping in mind that slow cooking intensifies flavors.
- Optional: Blend the sauce until smooth or leave it slightly chunky for texture contrast.
| Sauce Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Raw peanut butter | 1 cup | Creamy base |
| Ground roasted peanuts | 1/2 cup | Adds texture and depth |
| Annatto seeds + oil | 2 tbsp | Brings signature color |
| Fish sauce | 3 tbsp | Umami flavor |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust after slow cooking |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp | Adds slight heat |
Tip: Mixing the peanut sauce ingredients separately allows easier stirring into the slow cooker and deeper melding of flavors during the long cook.
With our meat trimmed and browned, vegetables cleaned and soaked, and peanut sauce ready, we’re perfectly set to build layers of flavor in our slow cooker Kare Kare.
Cooking Instructions
Following these step-by-step instructions ensures our Kare Kare slow cooker recipe yields tender meat, a deeply flavorful peanut sauce, and perfectly cooked vegetables every time.
Setting Up the Slow Cooker
- Prepare the slow cooker insert by lightly greasing with oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the browned meat pieces at the bottom for even heat distribution.
- Pour in the prepared peanut sauce mixture, ensuring the meat is well coated.
- Secure the slow cooker lid tightly to lock in moisture and flavors.
- Confirm the slow cooker is on a stable surface away from drafts or temperature fluctuations.
Cooking Time and Temperature
| Heat Setting | Cooking Time | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 6 to 8 hours | Melt-in-your-mouth tender meat |
| High | 3 to 4 hours | Tender meat with a slightly firmer texture |
- We recommend setting the slow cooker to Low for optimal tenderness and flavor melding.
- Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain a consistent temperature and moisture level.
Adding Vegetables
- When the meat is nearly tender (about 30 minutes before the end on Low or 15 minutes on High), add the prepared banana blossoms, eggplants, and string beans.
- Stir gently to combine vegetables with the sauce without breaking them down.
- Cover and cook until the vegetables are just tender but still vibrant in color.
- Adjust seasoning at the end with additional fish sauce, salt, or black pepper to taste.
Tip: Adding vegetables toward the end prevents overcooking and preserves their unique texture and flavor, crucial for an authentic Kare Kare experience.
Serving Suggestions
We want to ensure that our Kare Kare slow cooker dish is enjoyed to its fullest by pairing it with the ideal accompaniments and serving techniques. Here’s how to present and complement this rich Filipino stew for an authentic dining experience.
How to Serve Kare Kare
- Serve the Kare Kare hot, straight from the slow cooker to keep the peanut sauce creamy and flavorful.
- Spoon a generous portion of tender meat and vegetables onto each plate, ensuring a good balance of oxtail, banana blossoms, and eggplant.
- Place a small dish of bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) on the side. Its salty and umami profile beautifully contrasts the creamy peanut sauce.
- For a cleaner presentation, wipe the edges of the serving dish before bringing it to the table.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted crushed peanuts or chopped green onions for an added texture and vibrancy.
Recommended Side Dishes
Pairing Kare Kare with traditional Filipino side dishes enhances the meal’s authenticity:
| Side Dish | Description | Why it Works with Kare Kare |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Jasmine Rice | Fluffy, slightly sticky rice | Absorbs the rich peanut sauce perfectly |
| Bagoong (Shrimp Paste) | Salty fermented seafood condiment | Balances and elevates the richness of the stew |
| Ensaladang Talong (Grilled Eggplant Salad) | Charred eggplant mixed with tomatoes and onions | Offers smoky freshness and a slight acidity |
| Pancit Canton (Fried Noodles) | Stir-fried egg noodles with vegetables and meat | Adds a textural contrast and complementary flavor |
| Fresh or Pickled Vegetables | Such as cucumber slices or pickled papaya | Provides a crisp and refreshing palate cleanse |
“A true Kare Kare experience blends the creamy peanut sauce with the salty kick of bagoong and the comforting absorbency of steamed rice.”
These serving suggestions ensure every bite embodies the heart of Filipino comfort food, making our slow cooker Kare Kare an unforgettable feast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep our slow cooker Kare Kare fresh and flavorful, proper storage and reheating are essential. Follow these detailed tips to maintain its rich peanut sauce and tender meat.
Storing Kare Kare
- Allow the Kare Kare to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent excess moisture buildup.
- Transfer the stew to an airtight container. Use containers that seal tightly to preserve the rich flavors and avoid odor absorption in the fridge.
- Store the Kare Kare in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- For longer storage, place the stew in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.
| Storage Type | Duration | Container Suggestions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3 to 4 days | Airtight glass or plastic | Cool completely before refrigerating |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Freezer-safe containers or bags | Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating |
Reheating Kare Kare
- For best results, thaw frozen Kare Kare overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat the stew gently to preserve the creamy peanut sauce texture:
- On the stove, use low heat and stir frequently to prevent sauce separation.
- Alternatively, reheat in the microwave using medium power in 1- to 2-minute intervals stirring between each until piping hot.
- If the peanut sauce thickens or separates, add a splash of water or beef broth while reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
- Add vegetables last if reheating leftovers to avoid overcooking them. You can reheat vegetables separately for 1 to 2 minutes before combining.
- Always check the temperature to ensure the Kare Kare is hot throughout — aim for 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
“Reheating Kare Kare slowly and gently helps retain the authentic taste and creamy texture we love.“
Quick Reference Table: Reheating Methods
| Method | Temperature/Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Stove | Low heat, 10–15 minutes | Stir frequently, add liquid if needed |
| Microwave | Medium power, 1–2 min intervals | Cover loosely, stir between intervals |
| Oven (Covered) | 325°F (163°C), 20 minutes | Use oven-safe dish, stir halfway |
Our slow cooker Kare Kare is best enjoyed fresh but storing and reheating it properly ensures we savor every bite without losing its signature tenderness and rich sauce.
Conclusion
Slow cooker Kare Kare transforms a time-honored Filipino classic into a hassle-free meal without sacrificing flavor or authenticity. By letting the slow cooker do the work, we unlock tender meats and deeply infused peanut sauce that bring comfort to the table.
With the right ingredients, preparation, and patience, this method fits perfectly into busy lifestyles while honoring tradition. Whether for a family dinner or special occasion, slow cooker Kare Kare promises a satisfying and memorable feast every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kare Kare?
Kare Kare is a traditional Filipino stew made with a rich, creamy peanut sauce and tender meat, often including oxtail and beef shank, accompanied by various vegetables.
Can I cook Kare Kare in a slow cooker?
Yes, using a slow cooker enhances flavor melding and tenderness while providing convenience. It cooks the dish slowly over several hours, freeing you from constant monitoring.
What are the key ingredients for slow cooker Kare Kare?
Essential ingredients include oxtail, beef shank, banana blossoms, eggplants, raw peanut butter, ground roasted peanuts, fish sauce, salt, pepper, and annatto seeds for color.
What slow cooker size is recommended for Kare Kare?
A 6 to 7-quart slow cooker with multiple heat settings and a tight-sealing lid is ideal for the perfect balance of texture and developing rich flavors.
How should I prepare the meat before slow cooking?
Trim excess fat, cut meat into even pieces for uniform cooking, and brown it in a skillet to enhance the flavor before adding to the slow cooker.
How do I prevent vegetables from overcooking in Kare Kare?
Add the vegetables during the last 30 to 60 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant, tender, and flavorful without becoming mushy.
What are the best tools for making Kare Kare?
A large skillet for browning, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring, measuring cups for accuracy, and optionally a blender for a smooth peanut sauce.
How long should I cook Kare Kare in the slow cooker?
Cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours for tender meat or on High for 3 to 4 hours if you prefer a firmer texture. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
What is the best way to serve Kare Kare?
Serve hot with generous portions of meat and vegetables, a side of bagoong (fermented shrimp paste), steamed jasmine rice, and traditional Filipino side dishes like ensaladang talong.
How do I store and reheat leftover Kare Kare?
Store cooled stew in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on low stove heat or medium microwave power, adding liquid if sauce thickens.