Authentic Sinigang na Baka Recipe

4 stars
3.90 (12)

Sinigang na Baka is a popular Filipino dish known for its savory and sour flavors. This recipe features tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a tangy tamarind broth. Perfect as a main dish or soup, Sinigang na Baka is sure to warm your soul. Try this authentic recipe and enjoy the taste of the Philippines!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds beef short ribs, cut into serving pieces
  • 1 large onion, quartered
  • 2 medium tomatoes, quartered
  • 1 bundle kangkong (water spinach), stems separated from leaves
  • 1 long green chili (siling haba)
  • 2 medium radishes, sliced
  • 1 medium eggplant, sliced
  • 10 pieces okra
  • 1 small taro root (gabi), peeled and sliced
  • 5 cups water
  • 1 packet sinigang sa sampalok mix (tamarind soup base)
  • fish sauce (patis), to taste
  • pepper, to taste

Directions

  1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef short ribs and cook until browned. Add the onions and tomatoes. Cook until the onions are translucent.
  2. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Skim off any scum that rises to the surface. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
  3. Dissolve the sinigang sa sampalok mix in a cup of water. Add the tamarind mixture to the pot and season with fish sauce and pepper. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
  4. Add the taro root and radishes. Cook for 5 minutes, then add the eggplant, okra, and long green chili. Simmer for another 5 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked but still slightly crisp.
  5. Add the kangkong leaves and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and serve hot.
  6. Serve the Sinigang na Baka with steamed rice and enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Sinigang is a popular Filipino dish that originated from the tamarind fruit, which gives the soup its distinct flavor.
  • The sourness of Sinigang comes from the tamarind and other souring agents like calamansi or guava.
  • Traditionally, Sinigang is cooked with pork, but beef, shrimp, and fish can also be used as the main protein.
  • The combination of savory, sour, and slightly spicy flavors makes Sinigang na Baka a truly comforting and satisfying dish.