Filipino Shredded Beef in Tomato Sauce (Mechado)

What does it include?

Ingredients

• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 sliced ​​onion
• 2 pounds beef (stew cuts)
• 8 ounces tomato puree
• 1 cup of water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon slice
• 1 large potato, cubed
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt to taste

How to prepare it step by step?

Preparation

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the beef and brown lightly on all sides, about 5 minutes, to seal in the juices.
3. Pour in the tomato puree, soy sauce, water, lemon slice, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and simmer over low heat for 45–60 minutes, or until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
5. Add the cubed potatoes, cover, and continue cooking for 15 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
6. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a balanced flavor.
7. Serve hot with steamed white rice, savoring the tender beef and aromatic sauce.