Beef Sinigang Recipe: Authentic Filipino Sour Soup

There’s something magical about a bowl of Beef Sinigang, the iconic Filipino sour soup that warms the heart and delights the taste buds. Known for its tangy tamarind broth and tender beef chunks, this dish is a staple in Filipino households.

Whether you’re craving a comforting family meal or introducing your friends to authentic Filipino flavors, this Beef Sinigang Filipino Recipe makes it easy to recreate at home. With fresh vegetables, a rich beef broth, and a perfect balance of sour and savory notes, every spoonful is a celebration of flavor.

How to Make This Recipe?

Making Beef Sinigang is all about layering flavors and cooking the beef until it’s tender and infused with the tangy broth. Begin by boiling the beef in water to create a rich base. Then, gradually add vegetables and tamarind or sinigang mix to achieve the signature sourness.

Keep tasting the broth as you go, adjusting the seasoning to your preference. The key is to let the soup simmer gently so the beef becomes tender and the vegetables maintain a slight crispness.

Ingredients for This Recipe

• 2 lbs beef short ribs or stew meat
• 10 cups water
• 1 medium onion, quartered
• 2 medium tomatoes, quartered
• 1 radish, sliced
• 1 cup string beans, trimmed
• 1 cup eggplant, sliced
• 1 cup okra
• 2 cups kangkong (water spinach)
• 1 packet tamarind soup base (sinigang mix) or 1 cup fresh tamarind pulp
• 2–3 tbsp fish sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Beef Sinigang Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Place beef in a large pot with water. Bring to a boil and skim off any foam to keep the broth clear.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add onions and tomatoes to the pot. Reduce heat and simmer for 1–1.5 hours until the beef is tender.

Step 3: Incorporate Tamarind Flavor

Add tamarind soup base or fresh tamarind pulp. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sour flavor to infuse the broth.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Add radish, string beans, eggplant, and okra. Simmer for another 5–7 minutes until vegetables are cooked but still slightly crisp.

Step 5: Finish with Kangkong

Add kangkong (water spinach) and simmer for 2 minutes. Season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve immediately with steamed rice for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Tips and Variations

• Beef Options: Use brisket, chuck, or shank for tender and flavorful meat.
• Vegetable Variations: Add taro, green beans, or daikon for a unique twist.
• Sourness Adjustment: Adjust tamarind to achieve the desired level of tanginess.
• Quick Version: Use beef stew meat and pre-made sinigang mix for a faster version.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Fat: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Protein: 28 g

Recipe Notes

• Simmer beef gently to avoid toughness.
• Add delicate vegetables like kangkong last to preserve texture.
• Adjust fish sauce gradually for optimal seasoning.

FAQs

Q: What is Beef Sinigang?

 A: Beef Sinigang is a traditional Filipino sour soup made with beef, vegetables, and tamarind, known for its tangy and savory flavors.

Q: Can I make it without tamarind mix?

A: Yes, you can use fresh tamarind pulp or lemon juice as a natural souring agent.

Q: How long does it take to cook?

A: About 1.5–2 hours, depending on the cut of beef used.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: Replace beef with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock.

Conclusion

The Beef Sinigang Filipino Recipe is a comforting, tangy, and hearty dish perfect for family meals or special occasions. Its rich beef broth, fresh vegetables, and signature sour flavor make it a beloved Filipino classic. Try this recipe at home and enjoy a taste of the Philippines in every bowl.