Adobo Beef With Gravy

Adobo Beef with Gravy is a delicious Filipino dish that features tender pieces of beef simmered in a flavorful sauce made primarily with vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and various spices. It’s a popular and well-loved dish in the Philippines, known for its savory and slightly tangy taste. Here’s some detailed information as per your request:

History:
The term “Adobo” originates from the Spanish word “adobar,” which means “to marinate” or “to season.” The dish itself has deep roots in Filipino cuisine and is considered one of the country’s national dishes. Adobo has a long history in the Philippines, and its cooking method of marinating and simmering meat in a flavorful sauce is believed to have been influenced by early Spanish settlers. Over the years, it has evolved into various regional and family-specific variations.

Components:
The key components of Adobo Beef with Gravy typically include:

1. Beef: Traditionally, this dish is made with cuts of beef like chuck or sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. Vinegar: White cane vinegar or Filipino coconut vinegar is commonly used.
3. Soy Sauce: Adds a salty and savory flavor to the dish.
4. Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, minced or crushed.
5. Bay Leaves: Dried bay leaves are used for a subtle earthy flavor.
6. Peppercorns: Whole black peppercorns for some heat.
7. Cooking Oil: Typically, vegetable oil is used for sautéing the meat.

Steps to Prepare Adobo Beef with Gravy:
Here’s a general outline of the steps to prepare this delicious dish:

1. Marinate the Beef:

   • In a bowl, combine the beef, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but longer marination (even overnight) can enhance the flavor.

2. Sear the Beef:

   • Heat some cooking oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
   • Add the marinated beef and sear until it’s browned on all sides. This adds depth of flavor to the dish.

3. Simmer with the Marinade:

   • Pour the marinade over the seared beef.
   • Add enough water to cover the beef, and bring it to a boil.

4. Simmer and Reduce:

   • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef becomes tender. Stir occasionally.

5. Make the Gravy:

   • Once the beef is tender, you can create the gravy. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
   • In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed and stir in some flour to create a roux.
   • Gradually add the sauce from the pot (the one used to simmer the beef) to the roux, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens.

6. Combine and Serve:

   • Return the cooked beef to the pot with the gravy and simmer for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Total Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Adobo Beef with Gravy can vary but generally takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, including marination time and simmering. It’s a dish that benefits from slow cooking to achieve the desired tenderness and flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Adobo Beef with Gravy, rich with Filipino flavors!

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Adobo Beef with Gravy:

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximate values):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal (calories can vary based on portion size and ingredients used)
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams (mostly from the beef and cooking oil)
• Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams (primarily from the marinade and gravy)
• Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sugar: 2-4 grams (mainly from the marinade ingredients)
• Sodium: 800-1000 mg (mainly from soy sauce and salt)

Health Information:

1. Protein: Adobo Beef with Gravy is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle health, tissue repair, and overall body function.

2. Fats: The dish contains some saturated fats from the beef and cooking oil. While fat is necessary in a balanced diet, it’s important to consume it in moderation.

3. Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates in this dish primarily come from the marinade and gravy. The amount is relatively low, making it suitable for those watching their carb intake.

4. Sodium: Adobo Beef with Gravy can be relatively high in sodium due to the soy sauce and salt used in the marinade and gravy. Excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure, so it’s important to consume it in moderation, especially if you have hypertension or related health concerns.

5. Fiber: The dish contains a small amount of dietary fiber, primarily from garlic and spices. Fiber is important for digestive health.

6. Vitamins and Minerals: Adobo Beef with Gravy can provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, iron, and zinc from the beef. These nutrients are vital for various bodily functions.

7. Portion Control: To make this dish more health-conscious, consider controlling portion sizes to manage calorie and sodium intake. Additionally, using lean cuts of beef and reducing the amount of oil can make it a healthier option.

As with any dish, moderation is key, and it’s important to balance Adobo Beef with Gravy with other nutritious foods in your diet. If you have specific dietary requirements or health concerns, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized guidance.